Evaluating Informal Networks: Part 2
Previously, we have only addressed engaging influencers assumed to be more positively disposed toward a change. In this segment, we will discuss potentially negative influencers and strategies for gaining their alignment. Negative influencers, such as gatekeepers, fence-sitters, and open challengers, can significantly impact change initiatives. While they present challenges, identifying and strategically engaging these individuals […]
Evaluating Informal Networks: Part 1
Leveraging informal influencers using ONA allows change agents to adopt a more responsive and resilient change strategy. Once identified, informal influencers can be enlisted as “change champions” or advocates who promote the change message in their respective networks. By involving them in the early stages of planning and decision-making, change agents can leverage their natural […]
Identifying the Informal Influencers in Organizations
In my last installment, I discussed research supporting the importance of leveraging informal influencers during change. Before we can engage and leverage informal influencers, we must first identify who and where they are. The traditional method is to ask managers to nominate these individuals, in much the same worn-out way we too typically use to […]
Unleashing Hidden Influence: Leveraging Informal Networks in Change
In recent studies on the ability of informal influencers to drive organizational change, evidence reinforces the critical role these informal networks play in the success of change initiatives. Research employing Organizational Network Analysis (ONA) has illustrated that informal influencers, although sometimes lacking formal authority, are often well-connected within an organization. This connectivity allows them to […]