According to CPA Australia, only 44% of New Zealand small businesses are expected to grow this year — a 27% decrease compared to last year. Although such statistics reflect how vulnerable many businesses have been at the hands of COVID-19, it also highlights how unexpected change is an inevitable part of running any business. Although expected change may give you more leeway to plan in advance, it’s important to have an understanding of how to deal with change that is also less anticipated. Being able to consciously recognise the process required to make changes can vastly improve your outcomes, leaving you in a much better position to tackle any obstacles head on.
The Five A’s of Change is a simple model that breaks down the process of change into easy steps:
1. Awareness.
First, there needs to be an awareness of what actually needs to change in your business. What changes should you prioritise now? How can you reflect these in your business plan?
2. Acceptance.
It’s important to accept that change is necessary for growth. Change doesn’t need to be viewed in a negative light — how can these changes be used as opportunities to grow your business?
3. Action.
Once you have a plan in place, it’s time to take action. Taking the first step is often the hardest, but with a solid plan in place, momentum will soon kick in.
4. Accountability.
Having someone independent to hold us to account is typically a fail proof way to ensure we act. It’s a bit like going to the gym before work… we’re more likely to show up if we’ve committed to a friend or paid for a personal trainer.
5. Acknowledgement.
Acknowledge the change you’ve been through in the past and know that you can do it again. You should be especially proud of the way you responded to COVID-19 and lockdown — the amount of change we all experienced was truly unprecedented. Celebrate the success of taking action and adapting to change. It’s not an easy feat!
The 5 A’s of Change makes the inevitable process of change less daunting. For your business, it’s important to consider what things you would like to change — or need to change – and what stage in this process you’re at. Have a think about your next step and what actions you’ll take to get there. Whatever your current situation, empower yourself and make a commitment to real change.
Need help making change stick? Get in touch with the team here at Kendons — we’d love to help you with planning and accountability to set you up for success.