How do you build a coalition of change agents at work?

1 Identify your allies

The first step is to find out who are the potential change agents in your organization. They could be from any level, department, or function, as long as they have some common characteristics: they are open-minded, curious, proactive, collaborative, and credible. You can use various methods to identify them, such as surveys, interviews, observations, or referrals. Once you have a list of candidates, reach out to them and invite them to join your coalition.

2 Communicate your purpose

The next step is to communicate your purpose and vision for the change. Why is it important, what are the benefits, and what are the challenges? How does it align with the organization's mission, values, and strategy? How does it affect the stakeholders and the customers? Use clear, compelling, and consistent messages to convey your purpose and inspire your allies. You can use different channels and formats, such as stories, presentations, videos, or podcasts.

3 Empower your coalition

The third step is to empower your coalition to take action and lead the change. Give them the autonomy, resources, and support they need to implement the change initiatives. Encourage them to experiment, learn, and adapt. Recognize and reward their efforts and achievements. Help them to overcome obstacles and deal with resistance. Create a feedback loop and a learning culture within your coalition.

4 Expand your network

The fourth step is to expand your network and reach out to other groups and individuals who can support or benefit from the change. Identify the key influencers, decision-makers, and opinion leaders who can endorse or sponsor your change. Identify the early adopters, enthusiasts, and advocates who can spread the word and create a positive buzz. Identify the skeptics, critics, and resisters who can challenge or hinder your change. Engage with them and address their concerns, questions, and objections.

5 Collaborate and co-create

The fifth step is to collaborate and co-create with your network and stakeholders. Involve them in the design, planning, execution, and evaluation of the change. Solicit their input, feedback, and suggestions. Incorporate their ideas, perspectives, and experiences. Create a sense of ownership and commitment among them. Foster a culture of trust, respect, and mutual support.

6 Celebrate and sustain

The sixth step is to celebrate and sustain the change and the coalition. Celebrate the milestones, successes, and learnings along the way. Acknowledge the contributions, efforts, and impacts of your coalition and network. Share the stories, results, and testimonials of the change. Reinforce the purpose, vision, and values of the change. Monitor and measure the outcomes and impacts of the change. Identify the gaps, risks, and opportunities for improvement. Plan for the next steps and the future of the change and the coalition.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?