In this lecture professor Roloff outlines individual differences in reactions to change and explains that when an idea or an innovation is proposed every individual reacts differently, and those differences are characterized by their behaviors and willingness to change. In any given change scenario, some individuals are prone to resist change, while others are typically in support of change. Resistance to change as presented ranges from ambivalence, to ready and willing to cynicism. Each type of resistance carries different reactions and behaviors which result in changes in performance for various individuals.
In my final paper for this course, I proposed a department wide switch from Google Drive to Box and anticipated challenges to the proposed change. Individual reactions to change had to be factored into my strategies for minimizing and mitigating resistance. As Roloff discussed the main reaction types, I could picture individuals in my department who fit with these descriptions, especially routine seekers and emotional reactors. In anticipating the needs for these reaction types, I proposed a mix of group and individual training options to show that the new file management system would not present a major change to their current routines. Individual training opportunities were proposed to help emotional reactors make the transition without feeling loss of fit within the larger group. An emotional reactor may feel uneasy in a group training session if they feel they are not keeping up or failing to see themselves successful with new technology. In a one-on-one training environment, they can show a bit of their emotional reaction to a trainer without causing a scene or having to withdraw in the group scenario. With the appropriate level of training and guidance, the traditional resisters could become willing advocates of the change.
LO 2: Demonstrate the ability to assess complex organization environments and achieve communication goals.
LO 4: Apply communication-centered scholarship to strengthen communication effectiveness.
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