Overcoming Resistance to Change

Having identified why people resist change, managers must develop strategies to overcome that resistance. Kotter and Schlesinger (1979) proposed six approaches, each suited to different situations and types of resistance. Choosing the right approach — or combination of approaches — is critical to successful change management.

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Kotter and Schlesinger's Six Ways of Overcoming Resistance

1. Education and Communication

What it involves: Explaining the reasons for change, sharing information openly, and helping employees understand both the need for change and the benefits it will bring.

Best used when: Resistance stems from misunderstanding or lack of information. People cannot support what they do not understand.

Methods:

• Town hall meetings and Q&A sessions
• Written briefings, newsletters, and FAQs
• One-to-one conversations with key influencers
• Sharing data and evidence that supports the case for change

Advantages	Disadvantages
Builds understanding and buy-in	Time-consuming, especially in large organisations
Reduces rumours and misinformation	May not work if trust is already low
Creates advocates who spread the message	Assumes resistance is based on lack of information

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2. Participation and Involvement