Change is everywhere these days, whether at work or home, it’s all around us, especially advances in technology and communications – think Alexa, Amazon Prime and Netflix – which are constantly challenging the norm and changing our behaviours.
How we deal with change and uncertainty is part of our genetic make-up. For some it’s a breath of fresh air, something to be welcomed and an opportunity to see, do, or be involved in something new; for others it’s something to fear and resist where possible.
Over the next five years, the transformation programme and OneUniversity solution will continue to bring about significant change at the University, not just in terms of the technologies we use and processes we implement, but also in the ways we work, our behaviours and perceptions.
Preparing for change
First, let’s acknowledge that it’s okay to feel apprehensive, scared, angry or even hurt by the changes taking place. In some cases, the things you hold dear to you are being challenged. That process you’ve been responsible for is going to change and, we recognise that you may not like it initially.
So, what can you do about it?
In this, the first of our series of blogs on change, we’ve put together a few suggestions for helping you get ready for OneUniversity Finance.
Take control and get involved:
– It’s up to you! Take an interest in what’s happening and ask your manager how you can get involved. Speak to your colleagues about what this is likely to mean for your team and look at the things you can do together to help
– Your change champions and managers are a great source of information about the Programme and are available to support you.
Educate yourself:
– Learn about the Programme and why it’s happening.
– Think about what the risks are if things just stay the same. Can we sustain our current working practices?
– Find out what new skills and abilities you’ll need in the new world and speak to your manager or change champion about training you’ll need.
Stay positive:
– We’re talking about new ways of working so there are likely to be opportunities arising as a result of the changes, and a chance to learn new skills on new technology (think of what that will look like on your cv).
And finally, don’t just ignore it because it is happening.
Next time: what can we expect to see as a result of the changes?