Threats to the existing balance of power: Changes in who is in control are likely to cause a shift in the

balance of power between individuals and organizational subunits. Those units that now control the
resources, have the expertise, and wield authority may be afraid of losing their positions favorable
positions as a result of any organizational change.

Change efforts that have previously failed: Anyone who has gone through a previous disaster
understandably may be hesitant to suffer another attempt at the same thing. Similarly, groups or entire
organizations that have been unsuccessful in implementing change in the past may be hesitant to accept
more attempts to introduce change into the system.

How Can Organizational Change Resistance Be Overcome?

1. Influence political dynamics. For change to be accepted, it is frequently advantageous, if not strictly
necessary, to have the backing of the company's most powerful and influential 170 persons.

2. Educate your workforce. People are sometimes hesitant to change because they are afraid of what
the future holds for them.