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AGILEPM-PRACTITIONER · Question #125

Sales staff failed to achieve last month's sales targets when training in the mobile products and supporting sales systems and processes was first started. This month the sales team is working after…

The correct answer is A. Visibly celebrate examples of the Sales staff using the new skills and systems. D. Assign some of the sales team to work exclusively on developing the necessary skills. Comprehensive and Detailed Step-by-Step Explanation: Context from the UniCo Scenario: The sales team is struggling with the transition to mobile products and new supporting systems, resulting in missed sales targets and unsustainable work practices. This resistance stems from…

Managing Resistance to Change

Question

Sales staff failed to achieve last month’s sales targets when training in the mobile products and supporting sales systems and processes was first started. This month the sales team is working after hours and weekends to try to meet the current targets while developing the new skills needed. It is generally felt that this situation is unsustainable. Which 2 actions by the Sales Director are the MOST appropriate when responding to this type of resistance?

Options

  • AVisibly celebrate examples of the Sales staff using the new skills and systems.
  • BAllow those Sales staff with opposing attitudes to use the old systems in parallel.
  • CIdentify the options available for moving people out of the Sales area to other jobs.
  • DAssign some of the sales team to work exclusively on developing the necessary skills.
  • EProvide a clear timetable of change to those Sales staff preparing for future operations.

How the community answered

(54 responses)
  • A
    61% (33)
  • B
    6% (3)
  • C
    24% (13)
  • E
    9% (5)

Explanation

Comprehensive and Detailed Step-by-Step Explanation: Context from the UniCo Scenario: The sales team is struggling with the transition to mobile products and new supporting systems, resulting in missed sales targets and unsustainable work practices. This resistance stems from change fatigue, lack of skills, and a perceived lack of support during the transition period. The Sales Director must address this resistance by providing motivation, clear guidance, and practical solutions. Analysis of Each Option: Celebrating successes motivates the sales staff and creates positive reinforcement, boosting morale during challenging transitions. This approach aligns with AgilePM's emphasis on recognizing progress Using the old systems in parallel creates inconsistency, confusion, and prevents full adoption of the new approach. It may reinforce resistance rather than addressing it. AgilePM principles advocate for consistent implementation of changes to ensure alignment and long-term success. This action does not address the core issue of resistance and the challenges in adapting to the new systems. It may also demoralize staff and increase turnover, contrary to the AgilePM principle of building team engagement and capability. Providing focused time for skill development allows staff to adapt without the pressure of simultaneously meeting sales targets. This aligns with AgilePM's emphasis on supporting capability development and creating a sustainable pace of work during transitions. While planning is essential, a timetable alone does not directly address the immediate challenges faced by the sales team. The focus here should be on reducing current pressure and supporting skill Why A and D Are Correct: Celebrating Success (A): Boosts morale and encourages adoption of new systems through visible recognition of progress. Reinforces a positive culture of adaptability, which is crucial in AgilePM for overcoming resistance. Focused Skill Development (D): Eases the transition by giving staff the necessary time to master new skills without being Aligns with AgilePM's focus on supporting team development to ensure successful change adoption. Team Morale and Engagement: Recognizing team achievements fosters collaboration and reduces resistance. (AgilePM Practitioner Guide, Chapter 12: Managing People) Supporting Capability Development: Ensuring teams have time and resources to upskill is a key factor in managing transitions. (AgilePM Practitioner Guide, Chapter 10: Preparing for Change) Sustainable Pace of Work: AgilePM emphasizes balancing work demands to prevent burnout and maintain productivity during change initiatives. (AgilePM Practitioner Guide, Chapter 9: Leadership and Engagement)

Topics

#change resistance#skills development#capacity management#celebrating success

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