In the communications world, change management can be tough. It takes time and thought. But if you’re in HR, there’s an extra level of stress — because although you may not be the reason for the change, you’re often the messenger.
There’s a three-phased change management communication plan that can help ease the stress of communication for HR and lessen the angst of transition for the employees.
If you’re looking for additional insights on communicating an upcoming, major change, jump to our blog that walks through our three-phased approach.
Check Out Our Plan for Communicating Change
Why You Need a Plan
Communicating change is never easy, especially when it affects employees personally. Having a plan in place can make the situation far less stressful, and your communications far more effective and authentic.
The change management comms plan above gets you thinking well ahead of the game — who your audiences will be in each phase, what your messaging should be, and how you’re going to get the word out. Plus, you’ll find tips and timing throughout.
Once you know a change is occurring, it’s time to engage your communications team. Generally, you’ll start sending communications six to seven weeks out, but you can start crafting your messages and lining up your support way before then.
Related Content:
- Our experiences over the past 25+ years have shown that change management is all about information, support, and direction.
- Read how a company moved nearly all employees from three plan options to only one… with zero confusion or pushback. It’s all about effective, timely communications.
- Before you roll out changes to all employees, remember who they trust and listen to… their managers. It’s always a good idea to inform managers first.
- In early 2025, many companies had to drop or reduce coverage for a very popular medication — GLP-1s. See how we offered guidance on breaking unpopular news.
- Looking for a comms plan for Open Enrollment? Chunk it into four phases, especially if you’ll be introducing changes — this sample plan has suggested timing, messaging, and comms channels.
