Answer for LDR 615 Discuss the importance of a change agent and a guiding team Re: Topic 4 DQ 1
A change agent is essential for initiating and directing change within an organization. They play a vital role in driving and facilitating organizational change by recognizing the need for change and leading the process strategically that involves effective communication with stakeholders. Change agents use tactics based on their observations to ensure a smoother and successful change. They identify areas where individuals in an organization are complacent and lack insight for improvement. One strategy used is “see-feel-change.” Successful “see-feel-change” tactics are clever, not clumsy, and never cynically manipulative. They often leave a lasting impact (Kotter et al., 2002). Change agents should take ownership of the needed change, involving stakeholders as well. Fostering ownership for change rather than just complying with external policies and demands, and as part of this ownership, taking the time to identify and involve stakeholders in change (Stoller et al., 2010). Overall, change agents identify opportunities and take advantage of them.
Change agents, while adept at recognizing opportunities, also understand the value of collaboration. They establish guiding teams, a collective effort to ensure that the opportunities for change are fully realized. These teams, comprising individuals who facilitate the change strategy, provide support and guidance throughout the process. The selection of these teams is crucial, as they should represent a diverse range of people from within the organization – advocates of change and skeptics; formal and informal leaders – all working towards a compelling, inspiring, and unified voice in favor of change (Blanchard, 2010). Guiding teams, with their collaborative approach, are instrumental in the successful outcome of the strategic change set by the change agent.
Reference:
Blanchard, K. (2010). Mastering the art of change. Training Journal, 44–47.
Kotter, P., & Cohen, D. S. (2002). The heart of change: Real-life stories of how people change their organizations. Boston, MA: Harvard Business Press. ISBN-13: 978-1422187333
Stoller JK, Sasidhar M, Wheeler DM, Chatburn RL, Bivens RT, Priganc D, & Orens DK. (2010). Team-building and change management in respiratory care: description of a process and outcomes. Respiratory Care, 55(6), 741–748.
