Thoughts about Change

   We've all heard the cliche, the only thing that is constant is change.  Many of our organizations are undergoing all kinds of change.  We may have professional changes.  And, of course, there are personal or life changes.

   Sometimes you have control over changes - they can be choices.  Sometimes you don't have control over the change.  But you do have control over how you respond to change.

I've spoken with many people whose organizations are undergoing change.  That can lead to some uncertainty, but that is not necessarily a bad thing.  It's really just something new.  And change often brings opportunity!

   One model that can be used to help people through change is the Bridges Model of Transition.  Bridges defines a transition path that begins when a change is announced or recognized. and ends when people are successfully in the changed state.  The key is what happens in between!  Bridges describes 3 stages that people must move through.

1. Letting Go - this means both understanding and coming to terms with the change.  It can be characterized by fear or other negative emotions.  Leaders can help by communicating, listening, and empathizing.  Recognize that different people change at different rates.  Individuals can help by talking things through with their leaders.
2. The Neutral Zone - this occurs once people get past their initial reaction to change.  This can be a period of uncertainty.  Leaders can help by providing direction and continuing to communicate.
3. The New Beginning - this occurs when the organization has arrived at the new state.  Since people do change at different rates, all team members may not arrive here together. Leaders can help by recognizing the state of team, providing extra direction where needed, and celebrating successes of the transition.

   I've been thinking about the topic of change for a couple of reasons.  First, my current organization is undergoing the change of integrating in a new organization.  This is actually a great synergy and creates many great opportunities both for the business and for individuals.  But as we discussed above, change affects different people differently.

   In addition, I'll be undergoing my own change soon as I transition to a new and exciting opportunity!

   Thank you to all my current colleagues for their partnership and support!  I know our paths will cross in the future.

What Works in Tech #Leadership - Keep It Simple

   As I'm heading toward the end of my current job, and getting ready for the challenges of my next opportunity, I've been thinking and reflecting on a few things.  One of these is leadership.

   I've had the opportunity to lead some great programs and teams in my career so far.  I went directly from being a technical individual contributor to management without any formal managerial training.  Earlier in my career I had titles and responsibilities including: software developer/programmer, engineering support, systems administration, architect, systems support, web developer, email administrator, security administrator/architect.  All of these positions can offer leadership opportunities, but this is very different than formal management.

   When I was in purely technical positions I had no interest in management, and couldn't even imagine going in that direction.  But then an opportunity came my way and I started down the "dark path" of management!  And I figured it out as I went along, with some results better than others.