Focus on manager’s role could spark improvement in companies’ ability to manage change

“While employers believe a majority of their change management programs succeed initially, a new survey by global professional services company Towers Watson reveals that only one-quarter of organizations are able to keep the momentum going over the long term. The survey blames the lack of continued success with change management initiatives partly on companies’ inability to prepare and train managers to be effective change leaders. The 2013 Towers Watson Change and Communication ROI Survey found that employers say 55% of their change management initiatives meet their initial objectives. However, only one out of four respondents (25%) say they are able to sustain gains from their change management initiatives over the long term. Change management initiatives can range from program or policy changes, to business transformation, and mergers and acquisitions…The survey also found that most companies recognize that managers have an important role to play in managing change. In fact, nearly nine out of 10 respondents (87%) train their managers to manage change. However, less than one-fourth of all respondents (22%) report their training is effective.”