Whether you're implementing a new system, restructuring, or driving a cultural shift, clear expectation setting can significantly influence the outcome. When individuals know what is expected of them, they are more likely to be motivated and proactive in their roles.
Setting clear expectations is a cornerstone of successful change management. By providing clarity, enhancing communication, motivating stakeholders, and enabling performance measurement, expectation setting lays the groundwork for an effective change process.
In both professional and personal contexts, I've realized that setting expectations is key to success, although it can be tricky. Regardless of title or IQ, people need guidance to perform at their best.
Let me give you a personal example. Over the holiday, my son came home from his freshman year at college. Knowing that he is a smart, Dean’s List student, I asked him simply to help put away the groceries. Later that day, I opened the fridge to find the groceries, still in their bags, crammed inside. I also asked him to clean the snow off my car…Do you think he choose the right tool for the job? Spoiler Alert -- He did not.
Where did I go wrong?!? I missed the expectations. I assumed he returned home with the same knowledge he had before he left and remembered the years of “training” to craft his skills (aka ability). It hadn’t been that long, but in those 3 short months, the awareness of expectations fluttered away from his little mind alongside the desire to care about my color-coded fridge organization.
Even though those expectations had previously been routine, I failed to remember where he was in his ADKAR journey at that time. (Yes, ADKAR can apply in all types of situations!) Sometimes, we just need a little reminder of those expectations to help us get through the reinforcement phase.
If you can’t remember the last time you set expectations for a change, it’s time to break out the acronyms and start utilizing OCM and ADKAR to help you set clear and achievable expectations. Here are are a few steps to help you get started:
As you begin to define your goals, don’t forget to plan communications and ensure that key messages are delivered from leadership for the most impact.
With these strategies, you can navigate the complexities of change and achieve your desired outcomes.
Ready to discuss how you manage expectations during change initiatives? Share your experiences and insights with the community!
Cheers!
Stephanie, Your OCM Enthusiast