Negotiating with external partners or suppliers is often part of the change management process. Whether it's securing resources, adjusting contracts, or managing service providers, Change Managers must be skilled negotiators. Strong negotiation skills ensure that the organisation receives the best possible outcomes and that external parties are aligned with the change efforts.
Risk management is another vital skill. Change can introduce unforeseen challenges, so a Change Manager must be able to identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them. This proactive approach helps reduce the likelihood of negative impacts and ensures a smoother transition.
Training and development capabilities are key to supporting teams during a change initiative. Change Managers often need to provide training to ensure that employees have the skills and knowledge necessary for new systems, processes, or tools. Effective training programmes are crucial in helping employees adapt to changes and maintain productivity.
Decision-making skills are critical for Change Managers. With numerous moving parts and competing priorities, Change Managers must make informed decisions quickly. Whether they're choosing the best approach for implementing a change or resolving an issue that arises, strong decision-making abilities are essential for guiding the change process.
A Change Manager must possess strategic thinking abilities. A broader, long-term perspective allows them to align change initiatives with the organisation's future goals. By seeing the big picture, a Change Manager can ensure that the changes implemented today are steps towards achieving future success.