Last week we talked about giving your team time to process a big change. But that naturally invokes the question–what do you do in that time? How can you learn and grow in that space? First of all, remember this is a space for development and learning. Spend the time exploring yourself and your team! Seek insights into how you make decisions and what tends to work best and why. There’s no need to overthink this this–just use simple inquiries. An example:
Let’s say you and your significant other are trying to decide on a restaurant for dinner. There are a plethora of options and you aren’t immediately drawn to any one of them in particular. How do you make the decision?
Now, notice the thought process. What do you consult? Money, your stomach, distance, your mouth, your mood? All of these are insights into how you make that decision, and by proxy, decisions at large. Notice them, call them out, inquire as to why you use that process. Notice when that process changes, lets you down, or is successful. Is there a pattern or a consistent element involved?
Remember, effective change takes time and requires buy-in and engagement. Understanding how you and your team make decisions allows people to learn and grow through their transitions! The mistake most leaders seem to make is the rapid movement from one thing to the next with too little time for the glue to set. The process need not take forever, but it does need to take some time. The participants need to feel honored, respected and connected, as well as free from rushing or judgement. Only then can your entire team move into change effectively.
