Leading change is challenging. CEOs must have a clear vision of where the business is headed, strategies in place to ensure success, and a strong leadership team that is equipped to execute on those strategies. A great deal of time and resources are typically invested in crafting the vision, laying out the strategies, and building the leadership team; however, where organizations often fall down is in equipping the team to execute. Not just with project management or operational skills but with the leadership skills necessary to guide others through the change process.

To successfully lead change, leaders must be able to take risks. With change comes uncertainty. Leaders must be willing to step into the place of uncertainty and move forward, knowing that mistakes will be made and course correction may be necessary. Team members take their cues from their leaders and will balk if they sense fear or reluctance to press on.

Leaders must also be adept at handling conflict. Change rocks peoples’ worlds and typical reactions are to push back, argue, or complain about what is taking place. Change-savvy leaders encourage their teams to raise their concerns and engage the conversation rather than avoiding the conflict. In times of change it is not the leader’s role to make everyone happy about the change, but it is their role to ensure their concerns are heard and addressed.

Another characteristic setting apart those who can drive change from those who can’t is a knack for employee engagement. This includes helping others understand the big picture and how they fit in, matching their skills to the needs of the organization. The single most important contributor to an employee’s level of engagement is having a solid connection with their immediate boss.

Last, and most importantly, leading through change requires focus on the end game and an unwavering commitment to win. There will be inevitable obstacles along the way and at times the temptation to throw in the towel will be significant. Leaders must keep the faith, convey unwavering confidence in the organization’s ability to win, and strive to achieve critical outcomes.

As you embark on change in your organization, be sure to provide the mentoring, coaching, or training needed to equip your leaders to lead change successfully. The outcomes are well worth the investment.