One of the easiest ways to create resistance is to try too hard to “sell” change.
People can feel when they’re being pushed. And the harder we push, the more likely they are to lean back.
In this video, I share two stories about leaders who took a different approach. Instead of trying to convince people, they focused on building trust first.
One story involves an Air Force officer working with a chief master sergeant who openly disliked quality initiatives. Rather than avoiding him—or trying to win him over with persuasion—the officer listened, asked for feedback, and gave him room to contribute. Over time, the relationship changed completely.
The second story highlights how quickly trust can develop when leaders approach people with curiosity and respect instead of pressure.
Change readiness rarely comes from better presentations or stronger arguments.
More often, it grows from relationships where people feel heard, respected, and involved.
If you’re leading change right now, this short video may give you a different way to think about resistance—and trust.
I’d love to hear what you think. Come on over to LinkedIn and join the conversation on my post.
About the Author, Rick Maurer
