It’s time for a change. You’ve done your research, compared your options, and have decided to invest in project management software for your creative business. You’re excited about the benefits that it will bring to your workflow, productivity, communication, and profitability. But there’s one problem – your team is not as enthusiastic as you are. They’re reluctant to change their habits, learn new skills, or adopt new tools. They’re comfortable with the way things are, and they don’t see the need for improvement. So how do you overcome this resistance and get your team on board?
Communicate the Why
Before introducing new project management software (and potentially a new workflow process) to your team, communicate the why behind your decision. Why did you choose this particular tool? What problems does it solve? What benefits does it offer? How will it help your team and your business achieve its goals? Take the time to explain to your team the value you see in this new tool and why you believe it will make their lives easier, not harder. Address their pain points, challenges, and frustrations, and demonstrate how this software will alleviate them.
Involve Your Team
If you want your team on board with change, involve them in the process. Ask for their input, feedback, and suggestions on how to use the new software effectively. Create a plan and assign them roles and responsibilities related to implementation and usage — this will increase their ownership and make them accountable for the successful adoption of the new software, making your team feel valued while also fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Utilize and Provide Support
As the champion of this transition, it’s important that you take advantage of the support available to you, so that you can in turn provide support to your team. This may involve working with a dedicated onboarder, virtual training sessions, reaching out to a support team with questions, and reviewing help files, videos, and step by step guides. Change is never easy and there may be some challenges or difficulties along the way, especially in a fast-paced creative agency or office. Offer guidance, assistance, and encouragement to your team as they learn the new software and adapt to any changes in their workflow. This may also include creating a realistic timeline for the rollout of the new software, providing available resources, organizing training, setting expectations in relation to daily usage, and addressing any questions or concerns that your team might have.
As your company evolves, help achieve your goals by implementing a tool that will evolve with you. Get your team on board with communication, encouraging ownership and providing support — turning reluctance and resistance into a positive, exciting, and invigorating change for your creative business.
This article has been provided by FunctionFox Systems Inc. If you would like to submit an article to be featured on the FunctionFox Blog, email marketing@functionfox.com