Now that the standard operating procedures have been written and revised, it’s time to move to the final step – implementing them into the business. If the processes and the team are new, it will be easier to train. However, when it comes to changing procedures with existing staff, there will be challenges. Some will resist, whereas others will welcome the change; it all depends on how it’s presented.
Three factors to consider before implementing changes:
1. Communication.
Change is scary and is often met with resistance and concerns. Before we make these changes, announce to the team what is happening, including what is being adjusted and why. The better your team understands the “why” behind the changes, the more open and receptive they’ll be. When changes are communicated sooner, the more time your team will have to process, increasing the chances of your desired outcome.
2. Ease.
To ensure the change is well received by your team, make it as easy as possible for them. This will also make them more acceptive of the idea. This can be accomplish by having all procedures readily available, and easily located, by having guides/cheat sheets posted in designated locations. Additionally, provide each team member with an manual to review at their own pace. The more time they have to spend looking for the information, the less likely they are to use it.
To ensure everyone understands these new procedures, have a training day to review all the new information with the team. Explain the correct way to perform the task, demonstrate it, then have them practice it. It will take some getting used to, but the more they practice, the easier it will be (muscle memory).
3. Accountability.
Implementing change with standard operating procedures won’t work unless someone upholds these new standards.
When a step is missed (or ignored), it needs to be addressed, no matter how slight and insignificant it may seem. This prevents the snowball effect: a quick and inescapable descent of mass destruction that eliminates anything in it’s path.
Encourage your team to hold each other accountable on a peer to peer level. When done properly, their respect towards each other will improve as well as overall employee morale.
Implementing and enforcing changes is a difficult task, but is worth the reward. It improves the lives of your team, your customers, AND your bottom line.
Still struggling with SOPs? Contact us today!
What are your thoughts on the matter?