Making a change in organizational structure, strategy, or operations? Communication is key. Help ensure a clear, consistent message when communicating business updates for more effective results.

Planning and Implementing Change

Before you launch a small team or company-wide update, make sure you have a plan.

• Assess the need. Thoroughly consider the rationale and objectives behind the change.
• Draft the message. Edit to make sure it’s clear, concise, and transparent. It should explain what’s new and how it will impact everyone involved in the business.
• Identify audience. Are you meeting with stakeholders, employees, customers, or the media? Tailor the message to make sure it’s relevant.
• Define goals. What’s the take-away? Whether you want to inform, engage, or gather feedback, plan for how to clearly articulate what you aim to achieve.
• Choose appropriate communication channels and timelines. Determine the most effective way to deliver the message to different audiences. Consider the time of year and sensitivity of the topic. Schedule regular updates for ongoing changes through email, meetings, or internal message boards.

Once the message is out there and change is underway, it’s important to keep the lines of communication open.

• Create opportunities for audiences to ask questions, whether through meetings or anonymous feedback.
• Be prepared for challenges and refine communication based on evolving circumstances.
• Help those involved adapt and thrive in a new environment by offering training and continuous support.

Change is hard. Celebrate milestones along the way to help maintain momentum and morale. Change is good. Growth helps develop the company and everyone involved. By fostering trust and understanding early on, you have a better chance at greater success.