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Discover 7 key barriers to effective change communication and learn practical strategies to overcome them, reducing stress and fostering a smoother transition for employees.

71% of employees experience stress due to poor change communications. Change can be tricky, but it doesn't have to be stressful. With the right approach, we can make transitions smoother for everyone.

How communication can help overcome common challenges:

Resistance to Change

People often resist change because they fear the unknown or prefer things the way they are. Be open and honest about why the change is happening and how it benefits everyone. Use surveys and feedback sessions to understand and address any resistance quickly.

Too Much Information

About 80% of employees feel overwhelmed by too many emails and updates. Keep messages short and simple. Do not communicate too much at once, or too early. Share important dates and milestones in a clear visual format to give everyone an easy overview without too much detail.

Cultural and Language Differences

Diverse teams can have misunderstandings due to different backgrounds. Promote cultural awareness by encouraging team members to share their stories and traditions. This creates mutual respect and a more inclusive environment.

Lack of Clear Vision

When there's no clear vision, people get confused and lose trust. It's okay to say, "I don't know, but I'll find out and get back to you." Share what you know and follow up with more information as soon as possible.

Mistrust

Being open and honest helps build trust. Regular updates and transparent communication prevent rumours and reduce anxiety.

Change Fatigue

Too many change projects at once can overwhelm employees, leading to frustration and low morale. Work with your leadership team to prioritise projects and communicate these priorities clearly to help employees manage their workload.

Complexity

Complex changes can be hard to understand. Break them down into simple steps to make them easier to handle. Avoid unnecessary complications to keep everyone engaged and on board.

Overcoming barriers to change is all about winning your employees’ heart and we believe the success in overcoming resistance lies in communication. An excellent way to do this is by making the change clear, compelling and exciting.

Need help with change communication? Get in touch with us today!