6 ways you’re failing at change management

For a change management initiative to be embraced, the example must come from the top and trickle its way throughout the organization, Yammine states. The influence of longtime team members also plays a significant role in change implementation. “Such individuals need to be inspired, encouraged, and supported by leadership,” he advises. “It’s key to bring in fresh perspectives that challenge conventional thinking, which is a necessary part of transformation.”

Successful change ultimately comes down to people, which is why focusing on culture and communication is essential, Yammine says. Building trust in the team and the organization as a whole is crucial in handling ambiguity. “As a leader, you’re unable to predict everything, but you can prepare and anticipate different scenarios,” he says. “Leaders must also be aware of the risks they’re taking to ensure those risks are reasonable.”

IT leaders must understand that times of uncertainty will arise as they work toward implementing the correct strategy. “When we faced moments of doubt at Zilliant, we found it essential to focus on small wins,” Yammine says. “This allowed us to maintain momentum, communicate transparently about challenges and progress, and stay flexible, knowing when to adjust course while keeping the end goal in sight.”