In today’s rapidly evolving work environment, organizations face the challenge of keeping employees connected and engaged while navigating constant change. In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Curtis Bateman, Vice President of Direct International Offices for Franklin Covey and co-author of the best-selling book “Change: How to Turn Uncertainty into Opportunity.” Curtis brings over 24 years of experience in the training industry and offers invaluable insights into managing change and fostering collaboration in remote and hybrid work settings.Curtis introduces us to the four zones of change: the Zone of Status Quo, the Zone of Disruption, the Zone of Adoption, and the Zone of Innovation. Each zone represents a stage in the change process, from the initial introduction of change to the eventual adoption and innovation that follows. Curtis emphasizes that while we might wish to skip certain stages, each one is crucial for successful change implementation.
One of the key takeaways from our conversation is the importance of storytelling in navigating change. Curtis explains that storytelling can be a powerful tool both at the beginning of a change process, to help envision the future, and towards the end, to celebrate successes and reflect on lessons learned. By sharing stories, leaders can create a sense of connection and shared purpose among their teams.
As remote work becomes more prevalent, Curtis highlights the need for intentional efforts to foster connection and collaboration. He shares practical tips for leaders, such as leaving white space in schedules for ad hoc interactions, being proactive in reaching out to colleagues, and creating opportunities for social interactions, even in a virtual environment. Curtis also discusses the three C’s framework – Connection, Collaboration, and Change – which addresses the unique challenges of remote work and helps employees discover new ways to work together effectively.
Moreover, Curtis touches on the significance of company culture in driving change. He shares his approach to leading through a culture lens, emphasizing the importance of defining the desired culture, modeling the behaviors that support it, and continuously reinforcing it through storytelling and recognition.
This episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories that will resonate with leaders and employees alike. Whether you’re navigating a major organizational change or simply looking to improve team dynamics in a remote setting, Curtis Bateman’s expertise offers valuable guidance.
Tune in to the full episode HERE to learn more about the four zones of change, the power of storytelling, and practical strategies for fostering connection and collaboration in a remote work world. You won’t want to miss it!
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If you want to learn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling training for your business, you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome.
