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There’s always going to be change in the workplace. Although it brings opportunities for growth, the transition can feel overwhelming at times.
Schneider encourages change as a way to drive innovation and empower teams to deliver solutions that make a real impact. In my nearly two decades at Schneider, I’ve led large projects that have required the rollout of new processes, updated technology and restructured teams.
From my own experience, here are seven strategies on how to adapt to change in the workplace to help make your transition a little easier.
How to adapt to changes in your work environment
1. Understand the ‘why’ behind the change.
Change usually happens because something isn’t working as expected. But sometimes, not everyone sees or understands the initial problem that led to the modification.
Try to connect the problem to the solution. Think about how the change:
Understanding the bigger picture can help you see the purpose behind the change.
2. Focus on small steps.
Change can be intimidating when it’s presented all at once, especially if it has a big impact on your role.
To make it more manageable, break the change down into smaller parts that will affect your day to day. Consider if you:
Doing this will help you build a clearer understanding of how the adjustment connects to your workload. Work with your leader to figure out what steps you need to take to ensure a smooth transition, such as extra training or adjusting priorities.
3. Visualize the end goal.
Most of my career at Schneider has been dedicated to implementing changes that improve processes and results for both my team and the business. However, I’ve learned adapting to change in the workplace can be difficult if others don’t fully understand where the change is going.
By assessing the end goal, you can imagine how things might look in the future. Think about the solutions this change is meant to deliver:
- Will it make your job easier?
Are there opportunities for you to develop new skills?
Could it lead to better processes?
Will it help the team succeed in the long run?
Might it improve collaboration within the team?
Reflecting on these questions can help you clarify how the change aligns with your role and the broader goals of the team.
4. Ask questions.
If you’re still having a hard time understanding why the change was necessary, don’t be afraid to professionally ask your leader for more insight. Consider asking questions like:
- What does success look like once the change is fully implemented?
Are there resources or training available to help me adapt?
How will this change impact my priorities or the timelines of my current projects?
How will this change affect collaboration or communication within the team?
What role do you see me playing in making this change successful?
5. Have a problem-solving mindset.
Having a positive, solution-oriented mindset can make a big difference as you accept new changes at work.
Instead of focusing on what the new transition takes away, think about how it can better your work experience and that of your team. Change is what moves us forward!
6. Be patient.
One of the biggest challenges with workplace change is that not everyone experiences it the same way. What feels like a minor adjustment to you might significantly impact someone else, or vice versa.
Be patient and empathetic as everyone adjusts to the new change. Having open communication will help create a sense of connection and reduce misunderstandings.
7. Give it time.
Adapting to change in the workplace doesn’t happen overnight. Those implementing the change may feel like it’s been a long time in the making. But for others just encountering it, the experience can feel completely fresh and unfamiliar.
Check in with your leader during your one-on-one meetings to discuss how you’re adapting to the change. If you feel like you need extra support, ask what steps you could take to make the transition smoother.
Over time, changes start to feel like the new normal.
