How to adapt to change
No matter what industry or role you’re in, the ability to adapt to change at work is an important one. In fact, it’s one of the personal attributes employers frequently look for.
As an employee, being adaptable helps you perform on a day-to-day level and can also contribute to overall job satisfaction. But how do you embrace change at work? And what are some steps you can take to develop adaptability?
In this article, we explore why being adaptable is important in the workplace and steps you can take to hone this important trait.
Why adapting to changes is important
Adapting to change in the workplace is important for a number of reasons. It can help you adjust quickly to uncertainties in your job and in the employment market as a whole. It makes you an attractive employee in that you can take changes in your stride with a positive attitude, and bounce back quickly from unexpected circumstances.
Adaptable people are also often better at solving problems and making decisions on the fly, opening up more career opportunities.
How to adapt to change in the workplace
No matter where you are in your career, adapting to change is an important ability to learn. Here are a few tips to help you embrace change and uncertainty at work.
Learning to accept change
Changes of any type can cause feelings of apprehension or fear of the unknown. When learning to accept change, the first step is acknowledging these feelings and processing them before moving forward.
It’s helpful to view change as an opportunity for growth and development rather than something to be afraid of. Try to see changes as experiences that can build skills and positively influence your career path.
Be open to different perspectives
Another way to embrace change is to consciously try to understand the reasoning behind it. When you can see why the change is happening and its potential positive impact, it may not seem as intimidating.
To get different perspectives, seek feedback and viewpoints from colleagues or leadership. Ask questions for clarification if something is unclear.
Logically evaluate the pros and cons of the change
Another way to become more adaptable to change is by identifying the potential benefits it can bring, like improving efficiency, making collaboration easier, or streamlining daily workflows. It’s also important to acknowledge any challenges the change might bring and brainstorm potential solutions or ways to handle these challenges. Look at the pros and cons of a change objectively before coming to a conclusion.
Focus on what you can control
One of the best ways to adapt to a new environment is to focus on the elements you can control, like how you’re going to adjust to the changes.
You can also focus on areas where you can upskill as a result of the change. Adapting to change is always easier if you try to maintain a positive attitude and focus on the ways it can benefit you.
Reset and re-evaluate your goals
Changes at work can provide a great opportunity to reflect on your long-term goals. Consider how the change might impact your career in the long run, and how you should adapt to stay on track to meet your goals. If you find that the change doesn’t fit your career plan, consider exploring new opportunities within your organisation that are more in line with where you see yourself. Part of being adaptable is embracing change as a chance to learn and develop professionally.
Communicate openly
When you’re faced with changes at work, it can be helpful to share how you’re feeling with colleagues in the same situation. By communicating your concerns with colleagues, you may find a support network to lean on, and people who can offer advice.
Embrace calculated risks
Another way to get better at adapting to change is to step out of your comfort zone. Deliberately taking calculated risks can help you learn and grow professionally. For example, applying for a different role with new skill requirements is a great way to move out of your comfort zone, upskill and improve your adaptability. The more often you push yourself to try new things, the better you’ll become at adapting to change.
Throughout your career, you’re likely to encounter change in many forms. Rather than focusing on the challenges or negatives that it might bring, try to focus on the positives and use these times as opportunities to gain new skills.
FAQs
How can I mentally prepare myself to accept change in the workplace?
Mentally preparing yourself to accept change in the workplace involves embracing a positive mindset. Understand that change often leads to personal and professional growth and provides new opportunities to develop your skills. Practising positive thinking can help you cope with stress and adapt to changes in the workplace.
What are some strategies to approach change with a more positive perspective?
Reframing your mindset, practising gratitude, being flexible and seeking learning opportunities are strategies you can use to develop a more positive perspective. An example of adapting to change in the workplace could involve your company restructuring and changing your job scope. Rather than focus on the challenges of having new responsibilities, you could maintain an optimistic mindset and accept the new role, focusing on new skills you could learn and promotions that may come in the future as a result.
When dealing with change at work, how can I effectively communicate with my manager to understand the reasoning behind it?
When trying to understand the reason behind change at your workplace, it can be helpful to set up a meeting with your manager. Ask specific questions to help you understand the rationale behind the change and the positive impacts it may have.
Is it okay to ask questions or express concerns about a workplace change?
It’s okay to ask questions or voice your concerns about workplace changes. In fact, communicating and seeking clarification can help you be more adaptable and accepting. Through expressing your concerns, you highlight an opportunity for your management to better support the team through the change.
Should I consider this a chance to develop new skills relevant to the changing work environment?
Yes, viewing workplace change as an opportunity to develop new skills is a beneficial approach to take. By framing change as an opportunity for growth, you can acquire new skills that can help you reach your professional goals.
Does a workplace change necessitate a complete overhaul of my long-term career goals?
Not necessarily. While workplace change can provide an opportunity to reflect on and reassess your long-term career goals, it doesn’t usually require a complete overhaul of your career path. As outlined above, workplace changes often provide a chance to upskill – you can take advantage of the opportunity or look for new ones that are more in line with your goals.
What are some ways to build stronger connections with my team during times of workplace change?
Open communication is fundamental to building stronger connections with your team when you’re trying to adapt to change in the workplace. Share your concerns, practise active listening, and support your colleagues through the change.
