Ashley Goodall, a leadership expert and co-author of "Nine Lies About Work," challenges the notion that disruption is inherently beneficial. He argues that constant change can harm employee satisfaction and performance, advocating for prioritizing genuine improvement over superficial transformations. Goodall emphasizes the need for stability and team cohesion to enhance innovation. He also redefines HR's role, advocating for it to evolve into a supportive force that enhances employee well-being amidst uncertainty.
Constant change can hinder employee performance and well-being, leading to uncertainty and a disrupted sense of belonging at work.
Leaders should prioritize stability and employee needs to foster a supportive environment that enhances both performance and organizational success.
Deep dives
The Misconception of Change and Improvement
Change and improvement are distinct concepts that often get conflated in the workplace. Change refers to something being different, while improvement indicates a positive enhancement in a situation or process. The misconception that constant change is inherently beneficial leads to a focus on disruption instead of tangible advancements. In reality, many employees may recognize alterations in their work environment but are left questioning whether these changes genuinely enhance their performance or well-being.
The Impact of Constant Change on Employees
Constant change in organizations can severely hinder employees' ability to perform their tasks effectively. When leaders prioritize change as a mandate, they often overlook the psychological toll it takes on staff, resulting in feelings of uncertainty, diminished agency, and a disrupted sense of belonging. This endless cycle of change creates an environment where employees struggle to find stability, making their work increasingly challenging. Leaders must recognize that fostering a supportive and stable work culture is critical to maintaining high performance amidst inevitable change.
The Role of Leadership in Creating Stability
Leaders play a crucial role in establishing organizational stability, which is necessary for employee performance and satisfaction. Rather than focusing solely on business strategies or constant change, leaders should prioritize what provides a sense of security, belonging, and purpose for their teams. Understanding the intersection between the interests of the organization and the well-being of employees can foster an environment where employees feel empowered and valued. By reinforcing stability, leaders can better support their teams in navigating changes and driving true improvement.
You've likely been told to disrupt yourself and get better at dealing with change. But what if rapid change isn’t allowing you to do your best at work?
Leadership expert and co-author of Nine Lies About Work, Ashley Goodall, argues that change, for the sake of it, can be counter-productive. So how can we create more stability at work?
Guest:
Ashley Goodall, leadership expert and author, The Problem with Change