Change is hard on most people, especially those leading it and working through change for an organization.
Most of us like to exist in our areas of comfort. We know what to expect and what to do. But change is inevitable, whether we invite it or not.
Some of the most innovative chambers out there credit a board that shares their zest for creative problem-solving. But if your board is, shall we say, a little more conservative and is hesitant to enter this century, there are still ways to win them over. Just follow these steps:
- Be clear about what you want to do and the need for it. Present facts and figures that support your ideas.
- Use specifics. Don’t try to win them over to “increased technology usage.” Tell them specifically what you want to do and how you’ll do it. Have a plan.
- Know the end goal. Your goal needs to be expressed succinctly to your board. It should be specific, measurable, timely, achievable, and relevant.
- Find a supporter. Even among a very conservative board, you’re likely to find at least one person who will support your ideas. Ask for their help and suggestions on how to win the others over.
- Delegate tasks and find roles for people. Don’t try to do it all yourself. People who are part of the goal or solution will champion it.
- Use members as examples of businesses who have implemented similar solutions.
- Get those members to share their experiences.
- Be transparent. Admit the challenges but come with ideas on how you will solve them.
- Set realistic expectations. Don’t promise the world if they adopt your idea. Be honest about what you envision the outcome to be and what they can expect from it. Use real-life examples and data whenever possible.
- Don’t give up. Sometimes it takes people a while to see something. I never thought users would want to buy on Facebook. In the beginning, I imagined people would want to keep it social. I was wrong.
Are you working through change. Do you have a board that needs ongoing development? (We all need that don’t we?) Download this free resource today.
