Image by rawpixel from Pixabay
So you’ve identified workplace policies that need to be updated. But you want your policies to be accepted and followed by your employees.
Employees are often uncomfortable with change even if it’s necessary for a business turnaround. Remember high morale among employees propels profits.
You might recall the hysteria over former Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer’s telecommuting ban. She didn’t market the controversial plan well even though her policy decision was a positive model for struggling companies.
For a successful transition, do your research to win employee acceptance.
When changing policy, here are tips to consider:
1. Evaluate how your current policy is working
Ask yourself: Is it a feasible, legal policy for the welfare of your business?
Even if a policy promotes a company’s welfare, a successful company can sometimes encounter unforeseen legal hassles.
For example, the federal government warned all businesses in its ruling against Costco on social media policy.
Other salient policy questions to ask: Is it consistently being applied and utilized? Does it yield the desired results?
2. Garner opinions
A survey of attitudes is helpful. How do your key employees feel? Don’t worry if there isn’t universal agreement.
Prepare for the likelihood your employees will have concerns. Anticipate what their concerns will be. They’ll want to know how they’ll be affected.
3. If you conclude that a policy change is necessary, anticipate any complaints and questions
Prepare for the likelihood your employees will have concerns. Anticipate what their concerns will be. They’ll want to know how they’ll be affected.
So lay a foundation for success by prepping your managers. Give them a list of “frequently asked questions” (FAQs).
Make sure managers know to be accurate and consistent in communicating with employees. You don’t want one manager giving a set of answers only to have another supervisor giving different explanations. Consistency is vital.
4. When you announce a policy change, explain the big picture
Enlighten your team on why a change is needed. Employees might not agree, but they will be more inclined to accept the policy change.
Oh yes, try to use humor whenever possible. It will make for an easier change in policy.
5. Be definitive and make sure policies are implemented properly
Chances are some employees aren’t aware of all your policies. That needs to be corrected.
When you change a workplace policy, do whatever training is necessary – starting with your management team. Then, work with the rest of your staff.
Make sure the policy is consistently implemented and followed. You’ll lessen the likelihood of “buyers’ remorse” among your employees.
Conclusion
Use these principles to enhance your odds for a successful transition. You’ll lessen the likelihood of “buyers’ remorse” among your employees.
From the Coach’s Corner, here are more management/HR articles:
How Not to Worry about Keeping Your Top Employees — Increasingly, employers are worried about filling open slots and retaining their best workers, according to a 2012 survey of 526 human resources professionals. Sixty-one percent indicate they’re concerned about retention. That’s the conclusion from the study, “Retention of Key Talent and the Role of Rewards.” Only 49 percent are confident about retention efforts.
13 Management Tips to Solve Employee Absenteeism –– Absenteeism causes migraines for a lot of bosses. Obviously, your company will make healthier profits, if you don’t have an absenteeism problem. Check your attendance records. Monday is the most-abused day of the week and January is the worst month for absenteeism.
HR Management – 8 Best Practices in Employee Delegation — Avoid frustration in delegation. Save yourself time and develop your staff for the welfare of your organization. Delegation is a fundamental driver of organizational growth. Managers who are effective in delegation show leadership. They know they’ll be more effective in management and that they’ll develop their employees.
“Good management consists in showing average people how to do the work of superior people.”
-John D. Rockefeller
__________
