By Alice Wrigley, Consultant, and Senior Project and Engagement Coordinator / 18 February 2025
Navigating change
Change, whether large or small, is disruptive and can be unsettling. For my family, a seemingly simple change to the usual Monday night dinner can cause upset and confusion! Whilst on a larger scale, organisational change presents similar reactions – familiar ways of working, relationships and systems are upended, and this can be uncomfortable and unsettling for those involved.
Change, by its very nature, can surprise us, unsettle us, and give rise to uncertainty. And change often happens to us, rather than by us. This lack of control can make us feel vulnerable, often showing up as resistance as we try to maintain the status quo. This is a response we often see in our work with clients who are responding to the many external and internal challenges facing universities. This reaction is entirely natural – we have all experienced it. What may appear as resistance is often a reflection of deep loyalty to their institution, ways of workings and the strong commitment they feel for their place of work and colleagues.
Embracing curiosity
There are things that we can do to help ourselves and others to navigate change and one of these is embracing curiosity. When I started my career in higher education, fully embracing curiosity felt strange, even intimidating at times. Over time I realised this was because I was scared of the vulnerability and openness that curiosity demands and that I preferred the security and confidence of what I already knew. However, embracing curiosity allows us to move beyond resistance. With resilience, we can accept vulnerability and ask the right questions: What can I learn from this? What advantages might there be for me, my team, or my organisation?
Curiosity also builds confidence. Although we might not know where a particular road is leading us, gathering the knowledge to help us, caring about asking the right questions and asking for help when we need it can give us a firm footing and the right tools that we need to take us forward. By seeking knowledge, asking thoughtful questions, and being open to help, we gain control over uncertainty.
Leading change with confidence
Psychologists have long studied change, highlighting the importance of clear and empathetic leadership. Leaders play an essential role in shaping a culture that views change as an opportunity rather than a threat. Communication is key and reassurance comes not only from explaining what is changing, but also highlighting what remains the same. In a university, students will still be taught, research will continue, and essential support functions will remain. Sometimes change involves loss as well, but again, embracing curiosity and taking control over uncertainty helps clarify options, opportunities and ways forward.
Returning to my family, the upset caused by a break in our Monday night routine makes sense given there was no explanation as to why or what was going to happen instead. In a professional setting, effective leaders can help in navigating change by communicating openly, consistently and honestly. Speaking about change should never be shied away from as that can only fuel anxiety and distrust. Leaders must articulate a clear narrative outlining why change is needed and how it will happen – and this narrative will need to be repeated over and over again. They must anticipate questions and they have a responsibility to respond to help others understand the rationale for change. Whilst decision-makers will have understood the reasons having been involved in the decision-making process, those affected will need more time to understand and adjust as they haven't been on this journey. They will need clarity about the reasons behind the change, what it means for them and their colleagues, and to some extent, what options are available to them.
Getting comfortable with change
Change is challenging to navigate for everyone involved, but change also presents opportunities. By embracing curiosity, those affected by change can gain control over uncertainty, helping see a path ahead. For those leading change, clear and consistent communication mitigates against the unknown, providing those affected with clarity and reassurance. Ultimately, embracing change is about finding balance between the discomfort it brings and the opportunities it presents. By cultivating curiosity, resilience, and strong leadership, we can navigate change with confidence and clarity.
At Strive Higher, we are experienced in partnering with universities to effect positive change. If you’re interested in having a conversation with us to discuss your needs, get in touch.