Let's Get This Change Train Moving: Building a Campaign for Forward Progress

Do you ever feel like you're stuck on a train that's going nowhere? No, I'm not talking about your daily commute (although I can relate). I'm talking about that feeling you get when you're trying to implement change in your organization, but it seems like everyone is stuck in their ways. Trust me, I've been there, and it's not a fun feeling. However, building a campaign to promote, champion, and advance change projects forward can be the key to getting that train moving. Get ready for some tips and tricks to create excitement, urgency, and inspiration around a common mission, goal, or purpose.

1. Create a Clear and Compelling Message: 

When building a campaign for change, the first step is to create a clear and compelling message that resonates with your team. This message should outline the mission, purpose, and, most importantly, the benefits of the change you're promoting. If your team understands why the change is necessary and how it will benefit them, they'll be more motivated to get on board.

2. Build a Coalition of Champions: 

No one wants to be the only one on the change train, so it's important to build a coalition of champions who can help you promote the campaign and get others excited. This coalition should include a diverse group of individuals who have influence over different parts of the organization. These champions can help you create momentum, overcome objections, and inspire others to join the cause.

3. Create Urgency: 

Change can be uncomfortable, and many people will resist it if they don't see a sense of urgency. That's why it's crucial to create a sense of urgency around your campaign. This can be done by highlighting the consequences of inaction, framing the change as a solution to a problem, or setting a deadline for implementation. By creating urgency, you'll inspire action and commitment from your team.

4. Engage and Empower Your Team: 

Change is a team sport, and it's important to engage and empower your team throughout the campaign by creating opportunities for feedback and input, providing resources and training, and recognizing and rewarding progress. When your team feels valued, supported, and empowered, they'll be more invested in the change and more likely to take action.

5. Celebrate Success: 

Finally, it's essential to celebrate success along the way. Change can be a long and challenging process, and it's essential to acknowledge and celebrate progress milestones. Recognition programs, team outings, or even a simple thank-you note can motivate your team. Celebrating success will help to maintain momentum and inspire your team to keep pushing forward.

Change is never easy, but building a campaign to promote, champion, and advance change projects forward can make the process a lot smoother. By creating a clear and compelling message, building a coalition of champions, creating urgency, engaging and empowering your team, and celebrating success, you can inspire action and commitment from your team. So, let's get this change train moving. All aboard!