How can you transform the expectations of authority to better meet the

challenges of adaptive work?

The following list summarizes a few of the many strategies you might
use. Take a few moments to review the list, and then respond to the
reflection prompt.

Strategies for Renewing Trust

MODEL THE CHANGE

Be an example for others by actively engaging in new learning. This

doesn't mean that you have to be perfect. In fact, being honest with
others about the difficulties that you encounter can be just as powerful.

MAINTAIN FOCUS ON THE CONTEXT

In the midst of change, it's easy to lose sight of the conditions and goals
that led to the need for adaptive work. Reminding others of the what and
why can help them reconnect and recommit.

RECOGNIZE YOUR CONTRIBUTION TO THE ISSUE

Start by acknowledging the role that you played, a strategy sometimes

referred to as "owning your piece of the mess."

MANAGE EXPECTATIONS WITH CANDOR

Be honest when communicating potential outcomes and losses. This

includes being willing to say, "I don't know."

DON'T CONCEAL OR DIMINISH LOSSES

People don't fear change; they fear loss. Recognize those real losses
publicly and be honest about the sacrifices people must make as part of
adaptive work.
MEET ANGER WITH PATIENCE AND UNDERSTANDING

Use your diagnostic efforts to see beyond anger to the context and
perspective represented. Why might this person feel this way? Rather
than meeting anger with anger, try using the interaction as an opportunity
to better understand the pressures at work on people within the system.

PROMOTE PUBLIC LEARNING

Adaptive work requires new learning. Rather than letting stakeholders

and groups struggle in private, create the conditions to help people learn
from one another.

ENGAGE YOUR ALLIES

Allies are a resource, but it is not enough to simply identify them. Engage
allies (and their factions) in the work to be done in order to draw upon
their sources of trust and strengthen the network of bonds of trust.

STAY CLOSE TO THE OPPOSITION

Make the opposition a part of the conversation by engaging key

stakeholders regularly. Including all perspectives contributes to a fuller,
and more honest, view of the work to be done. Show them that you
appreciate the losses you are asking them to accept.

LISTEN

Listen to participants from across the system and seek to understand as

many perspectives as possible. Remember that diagnostic work is
ongoing. Engage feedback regularly and signal that you value the
opinions and experiences of others.