Leading through change and uncertainty

In the fast-paced working world of life sciences, where innovation is at the forefront and discovery has no limits, the only constant is change. Whether it's embracing new technologies, navigating regulatory shifts or managing organisational restructuring, the ability to lead people through change and uncertainty is crucial in any life sciences business.

In this month’s Life Science Leaders newsletter, we look at leading through different stages of change and share tips for leaders navigating their teams through uncertain times.

Stages of change in the workplace

Based on a model used to explain the different stages of grief by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in the 1960s, the change curve is widely used to help people understand reactions to a significant change or disruption in the workplace.

The change curve enables leaders to predict how employees might feel at different phases of a change, allowing them to provide appropriate support and guidance, thereby ensuring the change is implemented as smoothly as possible.

While there are different versions and individuals may react differently, most major changes will generally follow a pattern: Disruption, uncertainty, exploration, and adoption.

Phase 1: Disruption

When any change is first mentioned, people may display feelings of shock and confusion. As a leader, it’s important that you are clear about what the new way of working will involve and explain the reasoning behind the decision to change. Once they know what the change involves, it’s good to encourage individuals to ask any questions. This can help them feel more engaged and prepared for what lies ahead.

Phase 2: Uncertainty

As the change starts to become more evident, individuals may feel frustrated that things are different and they may even feel angry or detached. As a leader, you should be prepared for the possibility of your team reacting negatively and not performing to the best of their ability. Since each employee can react to change differently, consider asking your team members individually how they feel and what they need from you to better deal with the change and feel more motivated.

Phase 3: Exploration

As time passes and individuals become more accustomed to the change, they start to accept the new situation and explore what the changes mean. During this stage of the process, overall productivity and performance stage to pick up. At this point in the process, it can be worth offering individual coaching sessions or group training if necessary.

Phase 4: Adoption

As employees learn how to work in the new situation and begin feeling more positive, the change becomes integrated.

After your team has processed and accepted the change, it's important to review the outcome. Ask for feedback through employee surveys or informal discussions so that you can implement any learnings for next time.

3 tips for leading through uncertain times

1. Effectively communicate

In times of uncertainty or upheaval, frequent communication is essential. It keeps you and your team aligned and on course with minimal disruption. Be as transparent and open as you can with your team about the challenges ahead, the changes being implemented, and the strategies being devised to overcome them. Honest communication builds trust and confidence in the leadership team and in a company’s vision.

2. Focus on wellbeing

Wellbeing should always be a priority but especially in times of uncertainty. Create a supportive work environment where individuals feel safe to express their concerns and ask for help when needed. Provide resources for stress management, promote work-life balance, and lead by example by prioritising your own wellbeing.

3. Have strategic contingency plans in place

When you’re in the thick of uncertainty, you can often forget that what you’re experiencing is only temporary. Creating various plans for scenarios might also help you feel more prepared and confident, especially if you're feeling concerned about the future. Proactive planning is key. Develop detailed contingency plans to lower the level of risk and address potential challenges before they worsen. It can be beneficial to engage your team in strategic planning discussions, harnessing diverse perspectives to identify opportunities and threats. By staying ahead of the curve and adapting to changing circumstances, you can lead your team through uncertainty with confidence and clarity.

For more leadership tips and advice, head over to our leadership hub

Viewing setbacks as an opportunity

Proclinical’s Client Services Director, Kate Adley , gives her expert advice for leaders who face bumps in the road. As challenges are inevitable, Kate explains it can be good to reframe setbacks as opportunities. She also highlights the importance of being proactive and focusing on what you can learn and implement going forward.

For expert advice for those wanting to make a meaningful impact in the life sciences industry, download our leadership guidebook today.