Your team member is resisting algorithm changes mid-project. How can you get them on board?

1 Understand Concerns

The first step in addressing resistance is to understand the root of your team member's concerns. Often, resistance stems from fear of the unknown, lack of understanding, or attachment to the current way of doing things. Engage in a dialogue to uncover the specific reasons behind their reluctance. Listen actively and validate their feelings, showing empathy towards their situation. This can help in building trust and opening up a path for effective communication about the algorithm changes that are proposed.

3 Involve Actively

Involvement leads to ownership. Actively involve your team member in the process of implementing the algorithm changes. This could mean including them in the decision-making process or assigning them a role that leverages their strengths in the context of the new algorithm. When team members feel like they are part of the solution, they are more likely to be supportive and less resistant to change.

5 Monitor Progress

After implementing the changes, it's important to monitor progress and gather feedback. This includes tracking performance metrics and regularly checking in with your team member to assess how they are coping with the new algorithm. Use this feedback to make any necessary adjustments and to acknowledge improvements, which can reinforce the value of the changes and boost morale.

6 Adjust Tactfully

Finally, be prepared to adjust your approach based on the feedback and progress monitoring. If certain aspects of the algorithm change are not working as expected, be open to revisiting and refining them. This willingness to adapt not only improves the project but also shows your team member that their input is valuable and that the goal is a collective success.