Title: Effective Change Management: Overcoming Resistance To Organizational Change
Authors: Sunday Paul Etuh, Phd, Achimugwu Abubakar Oguche, Usman Shaibu Abdulazeez
Volume: 9
Issue: 1
Pages: 52-56
Publication Date: 2025/01/28
Abstract:
Organizational change is crucial for businesses to stay competitive, but resistance often undermines its successful implementation. This study aimed to identify the causes of resistance to organizational change, evaluate strategies to overcome it, and assess the role of leadership in managing resistance within Nigerian organizations. The objectives were to examine the primary causes of resistance, evaluate effective strategies for overcoming it, and assess leadership's role in ensuring successful change initiatives. A quantitative research design was adopted, with data collected from 200 employees working in various Nigerian organizations through structured surveys. The sample was selected using random sampling to ensure a diverse representation across different industries. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data, followed by inferential statistics to test relationships and hypotheses. The findings revealed that fear of the unknown, lack of trust in leadership, and poor communication were key causes of resistance. Leadership support and transparent communication emerged as the most effective strategies for overcoming resistance. Based on the findings, the study recommends that organizations improve communication strategies and enhance leadership involvement to better manage resistance and ensure successful organizational change.