Change is necessary for growth, but implementing a new practice or process in the center can be challenging and may even cause anxiety for some. In this article we will discuss the steps to take to ensure a smooth transition whether it’s updating phone scripting, introducing a new client intake procedure, or revamping your volunteer onboarding.
Step 1: Assess Your Current Practices
Before making changes, take time to evaluate how things are currently done. What’s working well? Where are there gaps? Are certain procedures inefficient or redundant? Gather feedback from your team about challenges they face and ask them to offer suggestions about what might make things easier.
Step 2: Define Your Objectives
What do you want the new process to accomplish? Whether it’s improving client interactions, or increasing efficiency, having clear goals will help shape the implementation plan. This will protect against making changes for the sake of change as you move forward with planning.
Step 3: Develop a Clear Plan
An effective implementation plan should:
Clearly define the new process and its purpose.
Outline step-by-step actions for staff to follow.
Provide scripts, templates, or checklists if applicable.
Address potential roadblocks and how to overcome them.
Include a timeline for rollout and evaluation.
Keep the plan as simple and practical as possible to reduce resistance and confusion.
Step 4: Train Your Team
Once the new process is ready, schedule a training session to introduce it to your team. Walk them through the reasoning behind the change so they understand the “why,” not just the “how.” Emphasize the benefits, answer questions, and demonstrate how it will work.
Step 5: Hands-On Learning and Shadowing
Instead of role-playing, encourage hands-on learning by allowing team members to gradually ease into the new process. Pair less experienced staff with seasoned team members so they can observe real-life applications before trying it themselves. Create a low-pressure environment where they can ask questions and practice in a supportive way. Consider using written examples, guided discussions, or low-stakes trial runs to build confidence without the pressure of performance.
Step 6: Implement Gradually
Instead of rolling out the change all at once, consider a phased approach. Start with a small group of staff members or specific situations. Monitor their experiences, gather feedback, and make adjustments as needed before full implementation with the rest of the team.
Step 7: Evaluate and Adjust
After implementation, continue to assess how the new process is working. Observe each procedure, check in with staff, and look for gaps and patterns in feedback. If certain aspects aren’t working well, refine them.
Implementing new practices and processes can feel overwhelming, but can also be exciting. With a structured approach, you can make the transition smooth and effective.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
If your center is looking for support in areas like phone scripting, communication technology, or in-center procedures, the RISE Program offers cost effective training and coaching to any center looking to grow. Let’s work together to create solutions that fit your needs and help your center thrive
Commenti