Tips for Change Sponsors

The biggest temptation for first-time change sponsors is to dive in right away and start doing things to show progress, but this can result in making early statements or choices that have to be walked back later. The pressure to deliver is considerable, and you often don't have much time to prepare before you have to start taking action, but what you do with that time is everything.

Here are 6 ways to get your head in the game before you make your first move:

See the vision

Before you can get anyone else to believe in this project, you have to believe in it yourself. Make sure you understand the reasons this project is moving forward and that those reasons make sense to you personally. Understand the future state that your project is moving the organization towards and why you believe you will succeed. Your genuine confidence will inspire and motivate others.

Marshal your resources

As the project gets underway, you’ll need to be able to influence others and use your authority to make decisions. Consider your credibility, relationships and organizational clout; how will you rally support, break down barriers, and navigate through challenges?

Set up communication channels and key messages

Decide how you will keep stakeholders informed, address concerns, and maintain open dialogues with impacted groups. Be prepared with basic speaking points about the purpose and benefits of the project, and know how you will get your message to the right people.

Find resilience

Prepare for bumps in the road ahead. How will you remain resilient and adaptable in the face of challenges? Plan your approach: What steps will you take when you encounter setbacks, uncover a mistake, or need to pivot? In the moment when these things come up, it will be easy for emotions to take over, so make your plan now and stick to it.

Hold space to collaborate

You don’t need to have all the answers - you just need to know who else has a piece of the puzzle, and how to work with them. Consider how you will actively engage stakeholders, seek input, and create a shared sense of ownership.

Focus on results

Don’t get distracted by obstacles that may come up; your project was started to meet a business need, and that’s how your success will be measured. Make a plan that includes setting clear goals, tracking progress, and celebrating milestones; your commitment to results will set the tone for others and help your team stay motivated.

Want to talk about how we can help you lead change effectively? We offer change management consulting services, coaching and fractional support. Reach out to WorkWithUs@SolveConsulting.ca to learn more!