Volume 7 • 2020 • Issue 7

• Healthy Workplace Series • The following article is adapted and reprinted with permission from the Morneau Shepell website www.workhealthlife.com ManagingChange or a Successful Restructuring Most employees are able to remain flexible when new processes are introduced but struggle when a major organizational change, such as a restructuring, is announced. Fear of the unknown makes everyone anxious but some people react with negative behaviours such as angry outbursts, apathy, negativity, lack of cooperation, or resistance. Unless managed effectively, these behaviours can spread, damaging productivity and morale and hindering the transitional process. Preparing for change Dealing with the many emotions and behaviours that may arise as a result of a significant operational changes will be easier if you know how each person on your team is likely to react. However, the most important reactions to deal with are your own. You may not personally like the changes but your team members need to see you being optimistic and focusing on the opportunities the change will bring. Any negativity on your part will increase staff resistance and further hurt morale and productivity. Managing change Some major changes may have resulted in layoffs or job changes, so asking team members to embrace new processes may not be realistic. However, you can help them cope and remain productive through the process with support and reassurance, openness and honesty, clarity and discussion. To do this, try the following: •  Talk and listen to as many of your staff as you can. Don’t disregard their feelings. Give them the chance to vent their frustrations, anxieties, grief, and anger. •  Give people time to adjust. Be prepared for productivity to dip and stress to increase during the transition process. •  Communicate. Don’t worry about knowing all the details, your staff will initially want to know the rationale behind the changes and how it will affect them. •  Focus your people on short-term objectives and assignments. Long-term strategies can come later. •  Make sure your team members are informed of the resources available to them , including those through the Members Assistance Program (MAP). Coping with change Any change or restructuring is extremely stressful for everyone, but especially for team leaders. It is important for dentists, as the leader of dental teams to find healthy ways to remain resilient. Try the following: •  Have a support system. Getting through tough times, professionally and personally, is easier when you have people around you with whom you can share feelings, discuss problems and receive advice. •  Find healthy ways to deal with stress. Avoid over use of alcohol, food, nicotine or other substances. Instead, take a walk, meditate, or simply take some time to read a book or listen to music. •  Take care of yourself. A healthy diet, regular exercise, plenty of sleep and time for relaxation and fun helps keep both your mind and body ready to deal with stressful situations and events. •  Continue doing what you do best. Organizational changes are disruptive, distracting and draining. Try to remain focused on your job and the goals of your dental team. •  Seek professional help if you are having difficulty coping with change. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Your MAP program can provide you with resources and support Lastly, stay positive. Focus on the advantages the change and transition could provide for both you and members of your dental office team. S upporting Y our P ractice 42 | 2020 | Issue 7