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57 KOTTER’S EIGHT PHASES
OF CHANGE
An organization undergoing significant changes should
pay attention to eight key steps to avoid the problems that
typically occur.
The idea
Leadership expert John Kotter studied 100 companies going through
transitions. By analyzing their triumphs and pitfalls, he identified
a number of commonly made mistakes. This led Kotter to compile
the “eight steps of change”: a sequence of actions to ensure that
changes succeed.
1. Establish a sense of urgency. Organizations frequently allow high
levels of complacency to develop during times of transition.
Kotter commented, “Without motivation, people won’t help
and the effort goes nowhere. Executives underestimate how
hard it can be to drive people out of their comfort zones.” To
accept change, businesses need a “burning platform” to remove
complacency and inertia.
2. Form a strong guiding coalition. A group of strong, unified
leaders should drive the change process and establish support
throughout the entire organization.
3. Create a vision. A clear sense of direction and an idea of the end
result will allow efforts to be focused, organized, and efficient.
4. Communicate the vision. The strategy and vision for change
must be communicated to everyone involved. As well as holding
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