I read this great post on LinkedIn. It really touched a cord with me in that we often underestimate the power of getting a message so right that the receivers brains to click into action once the right message has been received.
Understanding neural coupling gives all change managers or leaders of change an edge that can lift the affected teams into action. Below is the link to the great post I was referring to:
http://www.linkedin.com/hp/update/6115828829379387392
The best example I have seen of this personally was at a very large council. The start of the project was slow with great resistance and dread but once the right messages were received it was hard to hold the teams back and they took the change and collaboration to a whole new level. The results were amazing and long standing which is nice to know the hard work and planning paid off.
In a more public forum, I saw a documentary on the closure of the BHP Steel Works in Newcastle where all workers bar one left the site as it was decommissioned. the messaging is evident in the individual interviews and also the commitment shown by the workforce as they faced the loss of their jobs. Take a look at the below link to see a short sample of the video
http://dl.nfsa.gov.au/module/1667/
We all have the opportunity to influence others and the only time investment from us is to think about what it is that is a fundamental belief or driver for the group and be honest about how that will be affected by the change.
Next time, don’t try to sugar-coat a lemon and see what happens!