We’ve heard it for what seems to be forever, and the message will live on for decades. CHANGE! We don’t like it in most cases, and many simply struggle in dealing with it. However, it’s inevitable so you might want to focus on coping strategies to help you deal with it.
One simple strategy is to observe what’s going on around you. You’ll soon discover that successful organizations are constantly changing in an effort to become more productive and profitable. Many fail but continue their efforts. Others have enjoyed tremendous growth and success.
For instance, have you noticed the change in McDonalds across the nation? It has moved from tile floors and rickety plastic chairs to comfortable sofas, fireplaces, wide-screen TVs, WI-FI and speciality coffees and desserts in order to meet the needs of its ever-changing customers.
This past week Starbucks revealed that it is currently trying to reinvent itself as a place to hang out in the evenings. It is now serving regional wine and beer as well as an expansive plate of locally made cheeses served on china. The barista bars have been rebuilt to seat customers closer to the coffee. This 40-year-old, 16,000 unit, $15-billion coffee business fully understands that its future lies in changing to meet the ever-changing demands of those it serves, utilizes the latest technology, and out-performs its rapidly growing competitors.
The same holds true for you in your business—regardless of the products or services you may offer. Pause in your busy day to take note of how others are dealing with the challenge of constant change. You might even consider the consequences which may well result if you decide to play it safe and change only after everyone does so. That could easily spell disaster!
Read, research, benchmark and educate your staff on the many benefits of successfully dealing with CHANGE. Our change, creativity and innovation seminars are receiving more interest than ever before, suggesting that those seeking success know where they must focus.
About Harry K. Jones
Harry K. Jones is a motivational speaker and consultant for AchieveMax®, Inc., a company of professional speakers who provide custom-designed seminars, keynote presentations, and consulting services. Harry's top requested topics include change management, customer service, creativity, employee retention, goal setting, leadership, stress management, teamwork, and time management. For more information on Harry's presentations, please call 800-886-2629 or fill out our contact form.