I got some handy insights from the last Inspire workshop, listening the Angelo Kourtis, UWS Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students), speak about negotiating change and influencing others that I can use as I endeavour to develop the ICFV innovator. This is my main driver for Inspire. As I go I realise when you develop one ICVF quality you actually work on them all, but I really want to improve the service as much as I can while I'm acting in the team leader role, undertaking an higher duties appointment (HDA).
I'm starting small - just improving as I can that which is already in place. One day, if I get the job permanently I might be able to look at bigger innovations. There's lots of options to harness the power of our new Library management system to revolutionalise the way we currently do things and I hope that after Inspire I will have the confidence to investigate this further.
From Angelo I learned the importance of understanding and developing the narrative that supports the change,
to compelling reason for why change needs to happen. This is
part of the strategic communication around change. this can be done using conversation outside the
formal process by taming and engaging with water-cooler
conversations to develop a support network.
It's important to articulate what is not changing and to communicate clearly to eliminate heat that can come from fear of the unknown by highlighting certainty
were certainty exists. leaving some room for people to provide feedback and influence proposed changes.
Design & deliver change from an ethical values based
framework. It's harder for people to get angry about a change that effects them if
it's done with integrity and in a way that values them. It needs to be
empathetic and professional.
Be clear. Constantly and consistently reinforcing the message
because it promotes engagement. Inspire the influencers but don't shut the nay-sayers because
they need to have their voices heard.
All of this wisdom in one talk! It was great listening and learning leadership from someone so knowledgeable and, as Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students) i imagine hugely busy, so it was an honour to have him take the time to visit and speak with our Inspire cohort.
