Here are some types of resistance you may face, along with some possible responses you could make. To the blocker who says, “I don't want to do it that way.” The manager could say, “What are your objections to the change? How would you prefer to do it?”

To the roller who says, “What do you want me to do?” The manager could say, “I want you to …” (Be specific and describe the change in detail; use communication skills. Don't let them give up easily.) To the staller who says, “I'll do it when I can.” The manager could say, “What is more important?”

To the reverser who says, “That’s a good idea.” (But she or he never does it.) The manager could say, “What is it that you like about the change?” To the sidestepper who says, “Why don't you have XYZ do it?” The manager could say, “I asked you to do it because …”

The above supervisory responses will be helpful in most situations, but not all. If employees persist in resisting the change, they may need to be considered problem employees and handled accordingly.