Common Mistake: Overlooking How to Gather Resistance Issues from Targets
Common Challenge: Guessing Instead of Listening
Quick Summary
Too often, change leaders try to predict resistance instead of actually gathering it. Assuming what people are worried about leads to blind spots—and missed opportunities. This article outlines practical, proactive ways to surface real resistance issues from your targets using the LaMarsh Managed Change™ Model.
The Challenge
Organizations commonly rely on past experience or gut instinct to anticipate resistance. While experience helps, it’s not a substitute for direct input. When change targets aren’t heard early, their frustrations simmer beneath the surface—then erupt in disengagement, passive resistance, or full-blown opposition.
Why It Matters
Unaddressed resistance doesn’t go away—it grows. The only way to truly reduce risk is to hear from the people experiencing the change. Their insight isn’t just valuable—it’s vital to success.
The LaMarsh Perspective
The Managed Change™ Model defines resistance as a natural reaction to perceived risk. To mitigate resistance, you must first identify the risks from the target's point of view—then address them through deliberate actions and messaging.
How-To Solution: Ways to Surface Resistance Issues
Ask Early and Often
Use interviews, surveys, or focus groups to ask: What concerns you most about this change?Create Safe Channels
Offer anonymous ways for people to voice concerns. Psychological safety matters.Embed in Conversations
Ask managers to bring up resistance in team meetings and report back themes.Map Stakeholder Risk
Use a risk assessment matrix to document what groups stand to lose or fear.Don’t Dismiss Emotion
When targets say, “This won’t work,” ask why—and listen for loss, fear, or confusion.
Pro Tip
Assuming silence means acceptance? That’s a trap. Silence often signals disengagement, not buy-in.
Wrap-Up & CTA
Resistance isn’t the enemy—it’s information. The more you gather it, the more equipped you are to manage it. Use the LaMarsh Managed Change™ Model to turn uncertainty into insight.
👉 Want to build better listening into your change efforts? Join our next Managed Change Workshop or Contact us for support.