TDNet Discover

The purpose of this qualitative analysis is to explore the challenges organizational change leaders face in leading organizations through change. The theoretical framework guiding the proposed study is Kotter’s 8-step Change Model as it provides a structured, sequential framework for navigating challenges during times of organizational change. The study aims to explore the challenges faced by leaders of organizational change throughout the execution of change initiatives. The research focuses on identifying and understanding the nature of the challenges faced by organizational change leaders, as well as the strategies that were utilized to facilitate successful outcomes of change efforts. The data utilized in the study is sourced from scholarly, peer-reviewed secondary data sources such as interviews, case studies, and existing literature on organizational change management. A thematic analysis, guided by Braun & Clarke’s thematic analysis framework, is conducted to identify patterns and themes in the data that provide insights into the various aspects of the challenges faced by leaders of organizational change. The results of the study reveal that resistance to change emerges as a major challenge in leading organizational change initiatives, primarily driven by fear, uncertainty, and ineffective communication among stakeholders. Effective communication, characterized by transparency and consistent proactive engagement, emerges as a critical strategy for mitigating stakeholder resistance and fostering trust. Additionally, the findings highlight the importance of a collaborative leadership style in fostering stakeholder commitment and engagement. Time and resource constraints are also identified as significant obstacles, necessitating a balance between urgency and thoroughness in change processes. The study contributes to existing change management literature by elaborating on how ethical leadership, strategic alliances, and adaptable communication styles can enhance the effectiveness of organizational change 4 leadership and change initiative outcomes. The findings provide practical insights for organizational change leaders and inform future change management frameworks.