My new laptop does not like my old docking station. Even routine changes — like a new laptop or timesheet system — can derail a day. Supervisors often overlook these routine changes, but for team members, these transitions need to be managed.
As supervisors, we focus on honoring valuable departing employees. Many times, there is build up to their “last day.” Collecting equipment, transferring files, and conducting exit interviews all focus on the departing employee. The departure is viewed as a routine process, with the departing employee getting the spotlight rather than as a time of transition to support those employees who are remaining and doing the work.
For your team, it is an impactful transition because leaving your team is more than just an emotional moment. One easy tool you can use to manage this transition for your team is the Elements of Successful Change.
Vision
Will the position be replaced? How will the work get done during the short (or long) term? Are there more departures coming? Help your team see the future vision by providing them with the information they need to process the departure.
Skills
Does anyone on your team need new skills? If someone is taking over the work, are they already cross-trained? Does that need to happen before the departure? Help remaining team members maintain productivity by ensuring they know how to do the work.
Resources
Do your team members need access to additional software programs? Does a team member need more time to complete work while they learn a new skill? Does a team member need a schedule or shift change? Help your team avoid obstacles and frustration by getting them what they need.
Action Plan
Do you have a transition timeline in place? Have you shared that timeline and milestones with your team? Help your team see the endgame by letting them know what part they’ll play.
Incentives
Obvious incentives are bonus pay and overtime or promotion; however, many times those are not options, so ask yourself what the WIIFM* is for each of your team members? How can you ensure that you are using the correct motivation for each team member? Help your team members see value and purpose in their changing work.
*What’s In It for Me?
While some supervisors may say, “Hey, people leaving is just part of work; figure it out,” I say take 15 minutes to map out how your team will navigate an upcoming departure; it’s a small investment from you that pays dividends with your team by reducing frustration, minimizing disruption, and preventing additional departures.
Side bar or footnote? The Elements of Successful Change is just one tool you will learn in Leading Teams through Change. IPD offers this course through individual registration or for a group of supervisors at your organization.
