Change agents and those that sabotage an effort for change. Answer both question

Question

Change agents and those that sabotage an effort for change.

Answer both questions below.

Question A

Describe someone you have worked with past or present that you consider a change agent and provide examples of what contributed to your view.

Question B

Have you encountered a situation where a manager was resistant to change?

Share your perspective regarding a decision where you or a co-worker presented an idea to a manager that was not implemented.

How did the decision make you feel?

Looking back, was the decision justified? Why or why not?

Explanation / Answer

I worked with a colleague in the past, who I consider as a change agent. What set him apart was the energetic and enthusiastic approach to new ideas. There’s a distinct aura to their personality. Change agents find pleasure in solving difficult problems with a cool and calm mindset. The person I had experience with was at a senior position in sales and handling a difficult region. HE was very diligent, methodical, and hard working. He was quick and efficient at execution of the project. The factors that contributed to my view of him as a change agent were that he has a clear vision for his business division. He had clarity of communication, command and authority to execute the decisions. He was patient, yet persistent with his efforts. He was knowledgeable and always believed in leading by example. He believed in building strong relationship based on mutual trust. He was not afraid of facing tough questions on either side.

I have encountered situations where a manager was resistant to change. I and one my colleague had presented an idea of implementing eprocurement solutions to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of procurement system. However the manager belonged to an old school. And he was resistant to change, for the fear that an automated, fast and efficient system might lead to less manual intervention, less complexity, which makes his job less challenging and hence may lead to job security issues in the long run.

It did not feel nice to have our idea rejected. However a few years down the line, the management considered upgrading the procurement system, and it felt nice that our idea that was turned down by our manager was finally recognized by the management.

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