We all know automation can revolutionize how we work in shared services.
Yet, why does it feel like pushing a boulder up a hill when we bring it into our teams?
If you’re an associate or specialist in a GBS team, you’ve probably faced skepticism, even resistance.
It’s like introducing a shiny new toy to a group of kids who are glued to their old favorites. They’re comfortable. They know what to expect. Change? Yeah, that sounds like a hassle.
In this blog post, I want to break down how we can conquer that resistance, boost our transformation efforts, and build enthusiasm for automation together.
Why Do GBS Teams Resist Automation?
Let’s look at the root causes of this resistance:
- Fear of Job Loss: “If I automate, will I still have my job?” is the nagging question. It’s normal to have worries about automation replacing human jobs.
- Lack of Training: People often resist what they don’t understand. If they’re not trained, they’re not going to buy into it.
- Comfort Zone: Change is uncomfortable. Most teams prefer the “if it’s not broken, don’t fix it” mindset.
Creating a Game Plan for Transformation
Your mission, should you choose to accept it, involves a structured approach. Here’s how you can flip the script:
1. Open Communication Is Key
Your team needs to chat about their fears. Lay it all on the table. Create a safe space to voice concerns. Listen proactively.
Ask questions like:
- What worries you about automation?
- How do you think it will affect your day-to-day tasks?
2. Education, Education, Education
Conduct workshops that explain what automation is, how it works, and its benefits. Highlight successful case studies.
3. Foster a Culture of Experimentation
Let your team test out automation tools. Hands-on experience can dissolve fears. Transform apprehension into excitement.
Real Stories: Tackling Automation Resistance
Let me share a quick story.
A few years ago, I was part of an implementation team in a big shared services center.
We wanted to roll out a new automation tool for the finance department. The initial reaction? Surly faces. “No time to learn this,” they groaned.
But we tackled this head-on. We invited them to workshops, presented relatable success stories, and gradually let them play with the tool. Within weeks, the same team that resisted became our biggest advocates!
Now they lead training sessions for newbies. That’s power.
The Role of Leadership in Change
Leadership plays a massive role in change. Here’s how leaders can make an impact:
- Be an Example: If leaders embrace automation, team members are more likely to follow suit.
- Provide Continuous Support: Regularly check in with your teams. Is anyone stuck? Offer help.
- Communicate Progress: Share wins! Celebrate successes, big and small, to keep morale high.
Bringing the Team Onboard
Engaging every team member throughout the transformation journey is crucial. Here’s how to do that:
- Involve Everyone from the Start: Make automation a team initiative. Get input from as many members as possible.
- Hold Regular Check-Ins: Schedule updates and feedback sessions to discuss progress and obstacles.
- Encourage Sharing of Best Practices: Create a forum for team members to share their experiences and tips using the new tools.
Transforming Mindsets: Automation as Ally, Not Enemy
Make automation feel like an ally that’s there to make workloads lighter, not a rival trying to take jobs.
Here are some tips to help shift that mindset:
- Demonstrate Time Savings: Show how much time can be saved by automating tedious tasks.
- Highlight Quality Improvements: Explain how automation minimizes human error and improves accuracy.
- Connect Automation to Real Benefits: Be sure your team sees the connection between automation and enhanced career opportunities.
The Power of Empathy in Automation
Empathy goes a long way in easing fears around automation. Speak to your team’s emotions. Be their voice of reassurance.
Some key practices include:
- Validate Concerns: Don’t brush aside worries. Respond with understanding.
- Maintain Openness: Keep communication lines open. Offer a space for ongoing dialogue.
- Build Personal Connection: Using real examples creates emotional ties, reinforcing the positives of automation.
Celebrate Milestones to Maintain Momentum
Every little victory counts. Make sure to celebrate them. It’s what keeps the energy high.
- Acknowledge Individual Contributions: Everybody likes a shoutout, especially when they step out of their comfort zones.
- Set Team Challenges: A little friendly competition can motivate your team to get on board with automation.
- Company-wide Recognition: Share success stories across the company to demonstrate the collective benefit of automation.
Keep Evolving and Innovating
Lastly, understand that this journey doesn’t end. Automation isn’t a one-and-done ordeal.
Encourage continuous learning and innovation to keep your team engaged long after the initial rollout.
- Encourage Ongoing Training: Make learning available regularly to upskill and reskill.
- Adapt to Changes: Stay current. As tech evolves, embrace changes and ready your teams.
- Solicit Feedback: Regularly check in with your teams on the tools and approaches you’ve implemented. They’re the ones on the frontlines.
In Closing, Embrace the Change!
At the end of the day, breaking through automation resistance in GBS teams isn’t just about implementing technology. It’s about people.
When you prioritize understanding, education, and empathy, you’re not just leading a transformation.
You’re cultivating a resilient, empowered team ready to embrace the future.
We’re all in this together, steering the ship towards shared services transformation — and trust me, the journey can be one heck of a ride!
If you want to read more insightful posts on shared services, check out THEGBSEDGE blog for transformative insights across all facets of the industry.
