A recent Gartner report found that 74% of HR leaders say managers aren’t equipped to lead change. This can cause issues as organisations are constantly adapting – whether it’s rolling out new technologies, restructuring teams, shifting priorities, or embracing hybrid ways of working. Even personnel changes within teams can create ripple effects.
In our latest webinar, experts dived into how people experience change differently in the workplace. They shared practical tips for communicating change in a way that builds trust, reduces uncertainty, and keeps employees engaged — even during times of transition.
Why do people struggle with change?
Change can feel uncomfortable – and that’s completely natural. In a workplace, not everyone responds to change the same way. While some thrive on it, others feel destabilised. Garter found that 73% of HR leaders agree that employees are fatigued from change. In the same way that our bodies try to maintain balance, our minds often resist anything that disrupts our sense of stability.
What we need to do is make people feel more relaxed about the change process. The idea is that if we see it in a slightly different way, and maybe even change the word to something, which is more to do with a transformation, that’s something that’s positive. The idea is that those psychological changes will be something that we’ll welcome if we think we’re growing.
Mark Pinches, Head of Coaching, Westfield Health
Over time, prolonged uncertainty can lead to change fatigue: exhaustion, disengagement, and resistance. To progress, we need to create environments where people feel supported through change. That means acknowledging the discomfort, building resilience, and helping teams see change as a way to move forward.
How to support your employees through change
Communicate clearly
Uncertainty is one of the biggest stressors during change. That’s why clear, honest communication is essential. Some actionable steps include:
- Share updates regularly, even if they’re small or details are still unfolding
- Be transparent about what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and what’s still being decided
- Equip managers with resources like FAQs, talking points, and toolkits so they can support their teams confidently
- Avoid vague language as clarity within your organisation builds trust.
Involve and empower employees
When employees feel like change is happening to them rather than with them, resistance grows. But when they’re invited to contribute, they’re more likely to engage and adapt.
- Ask for feedback through anonymous surveys or give the option for 360 reviews
- Acting on employee feedback can make a big difference
- Offer training, mentoring, or upskilling opportunities so people feel equipped to grow with the change.
Support and reassure
Anchoring people with familiar routines and small consistencies can help reduce stress and build resilience. This includes:
- Keep regular check-ins, team rituals, or communication rhythms in place.
- Reassure employees about job security and the organisation’s direction.
- Introduce changes gradually, starting with small wins that build confidence.
How can managers support employees who adapt to change at different speeds?
Managers play a crucial role in helping teams navigate change. Managers who encourage employees to own change boost sustainable performance by up to 29%. Some employees adapt quickly and are ready to move forward, while others need more time, reassurance, and space to process.
“It’s not a one size fits all approach. Tailoring support, recognising your individuals and knowing your people is key to any management skill. It’s not about pushing everyone to the same pace, but about meeting people where they are.”
Vicky Walker, Chief People Officer at Westfield Health
Some tips from our expert panel include:
- For those finding change difficult, take time to reassure them, explain things clearly, and give them space to share how they’re feeling.
- Make sure senior leaders consistently role model the behaviours they want their teams to adopt.
Watch our free webinar on supporting employees through change
In this webinar, our panel of experts discuss how to support employees through change in our latest free webinar.