Dealing With Loyal Employees Who Are Resisting Important Changes

QUESTION:

How do you deal with employees who have been loyal for years but are resisting important changes that you’re trying to implement?

• “I just highlight the positives. Sometimes I have to be tough about it if the owner wants the change to happen. I tell everyone we will work together but this is happening no matter what.” — Sharon Giangrande, Inkorporate Graphics, Garden City, MI
• “You have to lay down the law no matter how uncomfortable.” — Sam Lapcevic, Branded Threads, Eighty Four, PA
• “Look, loyalty’s great, I appreciate it. First, I talk to ‘em, straight up. No BS. I explain ‘why’ the change is necessary. Not some corporate jargon, but the real reasons. Then, I listen. What’s their problem? Are they scared they can’t learn the new stuff? Do they just not get it? I address those concerns head-on.” — Scott Paulins, Mantis Ink Inc, Foley, AL
• “In-depth training on the changes is given with an explanation of how it will benefit their position specifically and the business in general.” — Colette Wilhelm, Contract Impressions, Cape Coral, FL
• “Just have a serious discussion on the reasoning for the changes — this always works.” — Robert Francis, Screenprintplus, Naperville, IL