Bridge Builders

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When introducing a new idea into an organization, even the most enthusiastic and knowledgeable champions will struggle to sway some people simply because they don’t know or trust them. It can be more effective to enlist a few other supporters of the change to convince their close colleagues who have not.

You are an evangelist or dedicated champion working to introduce a new idea into your organization. Some people in the organization have accepted the new idea, while others have not. In many cases, people may be suspicious of the evangelist and not the idea itself. Many hard-boiled veterans will not listen to a newcomer, no matter how knowledgeable that person may be.

Veterans need to hear from one of their own, someone they trust. People like people who are similar in opinion, personality, background, or lifestyle. They enjoy interacting with others who understand where they’re coming from.

Even trivial similarities between individuals have been shown to create a greater openness to new ideas and a willingness to try new approaches.

I was a dedicated champion, with a cubicle right next door to a skeptic whose opinions were respected in the organization. I tried to influence him without success. Finally I found someone the skeptic respected, someone he had worked with at the company for a long time, who supported the change initiative. I asked for her help …

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