We all know what it feels like to have a great idea that we know will absolutely make the organization better; and then comes the opposition.  When opposition shows up, we brace ourselves for the battle that we knew would come. There is a different perspective and approach to opposition that can make you a more effective leader, in addition to helping you accomplish your goals.  As Daft and Marcic (2011) explain, this approach begins by understanding the four major reasons that people resist change in the first place (Daft, Marcic, 2011):

• They believe the change is a threat to their own self-interest;
• A lack of understanding and/or trust;
• Fear created by uncertainty; and
• Different goals.

When we understand why people are resisting, we know how to meet that resistance. If the people believe the change will cause them a loss of power, authority, money, or whatever, they will resist.  You must then show them how the change will benefit them.  If they must give up something, show them what they will get in exchange.

When there is a lack of understanding or trust, fill in the blanks for them.  Understanding their resistance from their perspective, allows you to do that.  That means you have to actively listen to them.  If it is a lack of genuine trust, you may have to back up, slow down, and build a level of trust before you attempt to successfully change their world.

Uncertainty refers to fear caused by a lack of information.  When we don’t know how something will affect us, it causes anxiety, especially when it involves things like income and promotion.  When we attempt to initiate change, it is important to thoroughly consider and provide information that will lessen the initial level of anxiety.  Plan your change before you try to work your change by anticipating and answering questions first. Lastly, sometimes people simply have different goals.

View this as a great opportunity to build relationship through open dialogue.  Negotiate, and make it a win-win for everyone.  People are usually willing to give up something if they know they will get something else in return. When we approach opposition as an opportunity for dialogue, it sharpens our skills, which makes us a better leader and allows everyone to win.

Daft, R.L., Marcic, D.  (2011).  Understanding management 7e.  South-Western Cengage Learning.  Mason, OH

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