Going with the Flow: How to avoid setbacks during business transition

Business transitional phases can be quite tumultuous to say the least. New objectives, job losses, new policies and procedures, rumours, fear, anger, frustration and resistance to change become the new normal for a period of time. Keeping things flowing in the desired direction can be quite challenging. My colleague, Graham Edwards pointed out in his recent post, More Thoughts on Businesses in Transition that discipline is essential to moving your plan forward.

“Discipline is needed to ensure that the planning process is part of the business calendar, is properly resourced, and is actively communicated throughout the organization as a priority.” – Graham Edwards 

This often requires making a shift in the values that shape the culture of your organization. As someone who has spent considerable time studying and teaching others about employee engagement, this is especially interesting to me. Graham, in his post stated that creating a culture of urgency, meritocracy, curiosity and respect is an important element of successful business transition. I couldn’t agree more, but sometimes that’s much easier said than done. I decided to use my expertise to provide interested business owners with a little insight into ways to instill those values in their employees and keep the process of business transition moving forward.

A higher rate of urgency does not imply ever-present panic, anxiety, or fear. It means a state in which complacency is virtually absent. - John P. Kotter

Part of creating a culture of acceptance to change involves defining the  "new" values and living them in your day to day operations. When the mind of an organization shifts to a more positive focus, so will the behaviours and results that follow. My next post on transition will show you more ways to clean up your culture. 

Few public relations & communications specialists have as diverse a background as Renée Cormier. Add published author, employee engagement specialist, sales and marketing strategist, entrepreneur and educator to her list of accomplishments. In her career Renée has held leadership roles in sales and marketing, developed and implemented national marketing strategies and was responsible for teams as large as 28 strong. She brings a wide range of experience and talent to her work.

Renée really shines in marketing communications. She is known for developing and implementing comprehensive communications strategies and generating results through flawless implementation. With such strong business acumen, passion for her work and a natural talent for business strategy, Renée is definitely considered an important resource for her clients. Is your business in transition? Do you need help with your communications or public relations efforts? Contact Renée through her website.