now, no signup required!
If you type ‘change management’ in your search engine, you’ll find thousands of results related to the importance of organizational changes. Change is inevitable, especially in fast-paced business environments. While many view them as unnecessary hiccups in business performance, others view change as something essential. No matter where you go, you have to learn how to adapt to changes.
Adaptability in the workplace is a two-way street. Your organization will take all necessary measures to manage change but you should keep an open mind and embrace flexibility. Let’s explore the concept in more detail with the following examples of adaptability and change.
What Is Adaptability?
High levels of adaptability mean that you can deal with change more easily. It’s a valuable trait in workplace settings and employers value individuals who are open-minded, can work comfortably with teams or carry out tasks independently. Such employees aren’t afraid of changes in the organization; rather they are prepared to deal with them in the most effective manner. Therefore, adaptability is the capacity to manage and deal with change successfully. To thrive in fast-paced business environments, you must possess the basic skill of adaptability.
Here are few examples of being adaptable:
-
After working for a few months in an organization, there is an increase in responsibilities; you learn how to put in additional effort and find ways to take on new tasks
-
You’re always ready to learn new things; whether it’s personal improvement or skill development for career advancement, you find learning to be a lifelong experience
-
You aren’t afraid of taking risks and looking out for new opportunities; whether it’s a promotion or a transfer, your willingness and enthusiasm speak volumes
So, What Are Adaptability Skills?
Being adaptable means that you respond well to changing ideas, responsibilities, expectations and other processes at work. It reflects that you’re open to learning and adopting new things. Adaptability skills are foundational skill sets that help you respond positively and proactively to change. Let’s look at the various examples of adaptability skills and see how they work in a professional setting:
-
Communication
Communication is one of the most important adaptability skills, especially when you’re leading a team. Things won’t always go as planned, which is why you need to stay prepared. You should be able to effectively communicate and get everyone on the same page. It goes beyond explaining your plans of adapting and moving forward. You should be able to:
-
Listen actively and ask for feedback
-
Pay attention to nonverbal cues
-
Encourage others to ask relevant questions
-
Problem-Solving
Adaptability to change in the workplace means that you should be willing to face new challenges confidently and solve them effectively. You need to observe, analyze and look at obstacles from a different perspective. Your approach to problem-solving reflects your willingness to make adjustments and improvements. It also entails:
-
Negotiation
-
Brainstorming
-
Logical reasoning
-
Organization
Being organized is a prerequisite to adaptability in the workplace. Being organized means that you will be more prepared to deal with changes. If things fall out of place, you will always have a plan B to rely on. Staying organized minimizes the stress that comes with changes. To be organized and prepared, you need to:
-
Manage your time well
-
Plan ahead or schedule your days
-
Keep a record and utilize available resources
Demonstrating Adaptability In The Workplace
People often get the impression that adaptability skills are innate. While there is some truth to the statement, you can learn how to be more adaptable over time. Moreover, adaptability is also a key leadership skill, which is why organizations emphasize the need for being open-minded and flexible. Wondering how to exercise your adaptability skills and impress everyone at work? Here are some simple yet effective tips to demonstrate adaptability in the workplace.
-
Change Your Thought Process
Let go of the ‘that’s how it’s always done’ mentality. Stop looking at change as a bad thing; instead, look at it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Change the way you think by looking at a situation from a fresh perspective. For example, if an important decision-maker is absent from your team meeting, don’t be afraid to step in and do the needful.
-
Don’t Be Afraid To Take Risks
Taking risks is a part of learning and embracing change. You can’t progress without risks—they are inevitable. Challenge your comfort zone by taking baby steps. For example, you have been asked to represent your organization at a business conference but you haven’t been to one before. Start speaking up at meetings and practice public-speaking as much as possible. Work toward expanding your comfort level and adapting to the situation.
-
Be Open To Learning
Learning isn’t only restricted to expanding your knowledge base and skills. It’s also about how you want to grow personally. Ask for feedback from your team and coworkers as much as you can. Learn to embrace both your strengths and weaknesses and make room for improvement. Constructive and healthy feedback is instrumental in setting goals and pursuing excellence.
Harappa Education’s Embracing Change course will teach you how to deal with change and uncertainty. Learn how to overcome obstacles and embrace flexibility in your personal and professional lives with powerful frameworks that’ll guide you in overcoming challenges positively.
Explore topics such as What is Change Management, The Change Management Process, How to Get Out of Your Comfort Zone & How to Embrace Change to overcome challenges in your personal and professional lives.
