We need to change the way we think about change.

The pace of change in our society and in the workplace continues to accelerate. Change itself is becoming a constant. Yet, too often, we behave as if change is something that happens occasionally and needs to be managed temporarily with the goal of achieving stasis or a “new normal.”

Managers who make a difference approach change as an ongoing reality. They embrace uncertainty, approach it with confidence and instill hope in others. They welcome suggestions. And they don’t expect to get 100% buy in. Does that last part surprise you?

In this week’s podcast, we help managers think through these questions related to change:

Why is fear our natural response to change and what can managers do about it?
What’s the relationships between fear and courage and how can managers encourage the people on their teams when change heightens fear?
What source of positive change might you be overlooking?
What one thing can you start doing right away that will increase people’s willingness to offer new ideas and suggestions?
Why is holding out for 100% buy-in unrealistic and what should you do instead?
What are the roles of listening and empathy in change management?

We hope you’ll try out some of the suggestion in this week’s podcast or read about them yourself in Managing to Make a Difference. We love hearing your questions and responses. Please feel free to share them in a comment or by connecting with one of us on LinkedIn (see links to our profiles below).

Until next time, manage to make a difference every day!

+ Larry Sternberg, J.D. and Kim Turnage, Ph.D.

This post highlights Chapters 62-64 of Managing to Make a Difference (Wiley), a handbook for hitting the sweet spot of middle management. Connect with Kim Turnage and Larry Sternberg on LinkedIn to see their latest updates.

Talent Plus

Talent Plus is a team of industry experts who collaborate to deliver insightful and impactful content. Our blogs are designed to provide practical advice and fresh perspectives, helping you stay informed and ahead of the curve.

Latest Posts: Blog

Blog June 05, 2026

How to Successfully Lead Former Peers After a Promotion

Learn how to go from peer to leader with six smart strategies that will help you make the transition with confidence and ease.

Talent Plus

Blog March 24, 2026

Make 2026 Goals Stick: How Talent Turns Intentions Into Outcomes

Learn how when people understand their natural talents and leaders coach with those talents in mind, goal execution becomes more realistic.

Talent Plus

Blog March 06, 2026

Reese Witherspoon Is Right About Talent: Here’s Why It Matters for Your Organization

Learn the importance of building systems that discover, measure and develop talent intentionally across your entire organization.

Talent Plus

Blog February 02, 2026

Managing Up and Down: Using Talent to Strengthen Every Working Relationship

Managing up and down is one of the most valuable skills you can have. Learn how understanding talent can make managing in both directions much easier.

Talent Plus