For more than 25 years, Bronwyn Frazer has worked as a communications leader, helping CEOs and executives build and enhance their reputations. Sometimes these roles have involved conflict resolution, change management, and leadership changes.
Although often uncomfortable, her work has taught her that there are gifts in discomfort. She has learnt firsthand that the workplace can be one of your best teachers.
“We can’t avoid change. But we have the power to change our mindset.”
With on-going technology releases, changes in political leadership, and economic instability creating pressure in the workplace, many business owners and employees are understandably feeling stressed.
And although we know that change and challenges are part of life, they can be hard to adjust to.
To help people navigate and learn from life’s big moments of change and challenge, at and outside of work, Bronwyn Frazer has recently released her second book – What if? How to reframe challenges into opportunities for growth.
Here are five ‘what ifs’ to help you reframe and reset your business and career.
What if…this is an opportunity to upskill and become more employable?
With technology rapidly changing and the speed of new AI solutions emerging, more people are feeling unsettled about their career. The urgency to catch up or be left behind can feel both scary and intimidating.
But what if this new thing you’ve been asked to manage is a great learning opportunity? What if by stretching you, you add new skills to your career portfolio?
Here’s an example.
“Years ago, I was asked to create and deliver a technology change management communication plan across a large, complex organisation.
“As a result of the change, every employee needed to use new technology.
“While I’d done many change strategies involving technology previously, I wasn’t familiar with the solution being rolled out.
“So, I had to learn how to use it myself before I could confidently create key messaging and ‘how to’ workshops to support others.
“This helped set me up for future jobs because I could confidently say I’d delivered a successful change strategy and had first-hand experience using the tech.”
What if…you’re learning to speak up?
Great workplaces and leadership team embrace the voice and diversity of their employees. They encourage communication as part of their continuous improvement.
But some workplaces can feel less friendly or open to new ways of doing things.
However regardless of whether you are new in a role or organisation, or a long-term employee, your voice needs to be heard.
Here’s why.
“Your idea or solution might reflect the diversity of your employees and customers.
“When diverse voices and opinions are shared and heard, we create better solutions.
“If you’re a CEO or Executive reading this – know that often the quiet people in the room have good solutions. Often, they are thinkers your organisation needs.
“So, if they’re not speaking up – encourage them. Ask them – what do you think about x? You may be surprised by their contribution.”
But it’s important for another reason too.
“With technology quickly making some roles obsolete, contributing your ideas and energy is now more important than ever.
“It shows you are a team player, not just a team number. Also, by showing up and contributing, you’re telling management that you’re a valuable employee.
“This may open more doors for learning and career development, in the organisation or in your next role.”
What if…this job is helping you build personal skills?
Sometimes the workplace can offer ‘money can’t buy’ self-development opportunities like resilience.
This is especially the case if you work in an industry that is heavily influenced by the economy or political changes.
Here’s an example.
“Some large organisations, like banks and government departments, have employment cycles.
“Every few years, they hire a lot of people. Then two to five years later, they make large job cuts to ‘reduce their bottom line’.
“While uncomfortable in the moment, these jobs can help build key traits that will help you in current or future roles.
“I know – tough roles and down-sizing can be unsettling. But these situations can help you build resilience and remind you to keep developing your skill base.
“In the long term, these traits help make you more employable.”
What if…you need time out?
It’s not uncommon for people to feel burnt out, when they’ve continuously been forced to deal with challenges and changes in the workplace.
Restructures, change in leadership teams, new jobs, technology changes, new product releases, and family responsibilities outside of work can all contribute to your stress load.
Having regular holidays can be a way of managing your stress, so that you can maintain momentum in a job or your career.
Depending on your role and level of responsibility, you may need a break every three months or more frequently.
It’s ok to take time out. Here’s an example.
“One of my best bosses knew me so well that she could see when I was on the edge of ENOUGH!
“Recognising that I was at risk of burn out, she’d encourage me to take annual leave.
“By having a break, I was able to reset my energy and come to work with more enthusiasm.”
What if…you need a change?
Sometimes making the decision to leave a job, change careers, or go back to study can be the reset you need.
So, if you feel like you are dragging yourself to work every day, then something needs to change.
“Some people are constantly stuck in victim mentality. But this can be toxic – for you, the business, and the people you work with.
“So if you’re not happy – do something about it. Don’t just sit there complaining.
“Change needs to start with you. Otherwise, it might be forced upon you via a restructure or redundancy. Or potentially you’ll make yourself sick.
“Sometimes it’s time for a new attitude or something different. While not always easy, this can be a healthier solution for you in the long term.”
Her latest book – What if? How to reframe challenges into opportunities for growth – is available online, from bookstores, or via bronwynfrazer.com.au
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What if workplace challenges are hidden opportunities? Bronwyn Frazer’s ‘What if?’ reframes them for career growth Expert, workplace Dynamic Business
