In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Tim Creasey about focusing on the people side of change. Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!
Watch the episode here:
Quick Recap
Tim and Jonathan emphasized the importance of a people-centric approach to organizational change, with senior leaders playing an active role in guiding people through the change process. They also explored the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in change management and HR sector internships, viewing challenges as opportunities for innovation. Lastly, they discussed the challenges and flexibility of remote work, and the potential for AI to assist with tasks and free up time for more strategic work.
Managing Change With a People-Centric Approach
Tim and Jonathan discussed the importance of effectively managing change within organizations. Tim emphasized the significance of a people-centric approach to change, arguing that leaving change to chance can lead to costly rework and negative consequences. He contrasted this with a proactive approach that involves intentionally preparing, equipping, and supporting people through the change process. Jonathan concurred, highlighting the need for overcommunication and consistent repetition of messages to ensure everyone is informed and committed to the change. The discussion reinforced the need for change agents to play an active role in guiding people through the change process.
Senior Leaders' Role in Organizational Change
Tim and Jonathan discussed the dynamics of organizational change and the role of senior leaders in this process. Tim noted that senior leaders often live in the future state, thinking about and preparing for change a year or more in advance. Meanwhile, project teams operate in the current state, trying to build the organization around the upcoming changes. Jonathan agreed, highlighting the tension between long-term foresight and the immediate demands of the job. He emphasized the importance of leaders reframing their mindset to understand and empathize with their team's perspective, and to actively participate in the change process. Tim concluded that active and visible participation by senior leaders is the top contributor to successful change.
Effective Change Communication and Leadership
Tim emphasized the importance of active and visible participation in building coalitions of support for change initiatives. He stressed that senior leaders should communicate directly with employees and engage in role-playing exercises to better understand and communicate the reasons for change to different roles within the organization. Jonathan agreed with Tim's approach, recognizing the value of change practitioners in helping senior leaders become effective sponsors of change.
AI in Change Management and HR Internships
Jonathan and Tim explored the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in change management and HR sector internships. Tim's research showed that AI could enhance communication, support, and content creation, freeing up time for more strategic work. They considered the idea of using AI as a digital intern, which could assist with tasks like drafting and refinements, liberating time for more people-focused tasks. Tim emphasized that AI should be seen as an intern that can be given instructions, much like a human one, and that it could help unlock human potential. He encouraged viewing challenges as opportunities for innovation and overcoming obstacles.
Listen to the webinar here:
Comments