Make Change Happen With Kotter's 8-Step Model

When you can see the need for change in your team or organization, you'll likely be keen to get moving.

But not everyone will be so enthusiastic about your plan. 

And you can probably think of new systems that failed badly when they launched.

So, look before you leap! If you don't prepare, you could fall flat on your face.

Follow Prof John Kotter's eight steps to make sure everything goes smoothly. [1]

1. Create Urgency

Get everyone talking about the reasons for change.

2. Form a Powerful Coalition

Find people at all levels and from across your organization who will support you.

3 & 4. Create a Vision for Change, and Communicate It

Sum up the difference that your change will make. Be clear and inspirational but honest, too.

5. Remove Obstacles

Quickly tackle any processes or people who might be blocking change.

6. Create Short-Term Wins

Set small goals that contribute to the big change, so that everyone can see and enjoy the progress.

7. Build on the Change

Practice your new processes to make sure they're solid. Keep looking out for opportunities to improve even more.

8. Anchor the Change in Your Culture

Celebrate and record every success, and recruit and retain people who share your values.


References
[1] Kotter, J.P. (2012). 'Leading Change,' Boston: Harvard Business Review.


© 2022 Mind Tools by Emerald Works Ltd.