Signs of change fatigue

There is a often debate whether change fatigue is a reality or myth.  When change is not effectively managed or led well, change fatigue most certainly ensues. There are signs that a good leader keeps an eye out for when it comes to the impact on change to their team. 

Following are some of the key indicators a good Change leader picks up on:

1) Illness is on the rise: sick leave or general illness of team members and employees in the business is one sign of change fatigue. During the winter seasons, this can be blamed on bugs or flu's, however when a good change leader recognises the link between change and poor health. When individuals are under stress their immune systems suffer leaving them susceptible to catching and spreading these bugs. This doesn't necessarily mean team members will be taking more days off. A good leader notes who may not be coping well with change through physical indicators. Back issues and things such as migraines are other physical indicators of individuals not coping well with change stress.

2) Conflict is on the rise across teams: at times of change overload, fatigue can be shown through conflict. Tempers flair when communication doesn't take place when it needs to be, and if engagement isn't approached in the right manner, harsh words can be spoken. When the pressure is on, and change is never-ending and not well handled behaviour starts trending below the line. Displays of frustration start occurring more frequently. A good change leader addresses poor behaviour right away and 'checks in' regularly with team members.

3) Conversations are negative and problem oriented: When team members are fatigued they focus more on the problems than solutions. When the negativity can be an indication that a team member is struggling to cope with the change. Being in a constant or continual state of uncertainty can be tiring for individuals - especially if they are dealing with issues outside of the workplace as well. Are your teams feeling inspired when change is rolled out or is the language used negative and showing indications of fatigue?

4) Staff engagement results are heading south: Often when change is poorly managed and your team is feeling powerless, this will show up  in your staff engagement results. Change in an organisation doesn't necessarily mean your staff engagement results need to take a dip. In fact in a strong culture based change program will mean an increase in staff engagement results at this time. However, one round of results where staff engagement isn't where it needs to be is a red flag that needs to be addressed. If there is too much change taking place at one time, and it isn't well managed, staff will want their leaders to know and engagement surveys are for that purpose. If left unaddressed you should expect a downward trajectory and a dip in productivity.

A good Change leader monitors all of these areas, especially in heightened times of change. Change fatigue indicators are ways in which individuals are showing their leaders that they expect change is managed well to allow them to perform well. The next time a change is introduced to your team, keep an eye out for any signs to see what each individual's response is, to better understand who might be struggling and need more support.