How to successfully introduce new software to your team
Article by Ben Wardleworth, Business Development Director
With technology rapidly changing the way recruiters work and many organisations in the process of implementing new software, agency owners undoubtedly want to see value for their investment. But without the full backing of the team, this is unlikely to happen. Preparing your team for digital transformation and new tech in the workplace is not easy, but necessary, as without careful planning and preparation, employees may find that they are overwhelmed, left out and unable to keep up.
A new study published by the Fabian Society and the Commission on Workers and Technology, found that three out of five employees were not consulted about the use of a new technology at work. This resulted in people feeling “shut out” by the decision-making of senior management on the technologies affecting their jobs and led to negative consequences on their working conditions and enjoyment of work. Here’s how you can avoid this and prepare for any upcoming challenges that come with introducing new software to your team.
Identify pain points early
Conduct a comprehensive process overview of your business to identify any pain points. By finding these early, you will be able to maximise the benefits that come with implementing technology. If you find that your employees are spending too much time on admin, for example, you know that this is where it’s best to invest your time and money. When we partnered with Premier Group, we helped them cut back their recruiters’ time on gathering compliance documents with our cloud-based software, so that they can spend more hours on building relationships with clients and sourcing high-quality candidates. Identifying and analysing problem areas will also help you better understand why you are undergoing a digital transformation and allow you to confidently explain this to your employees.
Keep your team informed
Secondly, keep your team informed throughout the process. From the moment you are thinking about introducing new software, get your employees involved. By asking them for ideas and what their thoughts and opinions are, they’ll feel more included and valued. This may also provide you with ideas that you might not have thought of. As your employees will be the main users of the new technology, it’s important to consider how they feel about it and ensure that it’s suitable for them. Also, with the growing use of AI in the workplace, many workers are concerned that they may be at risk of losing their jobs. With automation becoming increasingly efficient at certain tasks, it’s crucial to allow people to voice their opinions or concerns on this, and to then address any misunderstandings – as this is often not the case – it’s actually beneficial for them.
Demonstrate and guide
Don’t assume that your workforce will know what to do once you have bought in new software. Hold an introductory class to demonstrate to employees how to use it and guide them through the software. Doing this will help build your team’s competency and confidence, helping to avoid any future mistakes.
Explain what’s in it for them
Getting to grips with something new or having a tool that you’re used to thrown away is often going to be difficult and uncomfortable at first. However, by informing your team of how the new software will benefit them, it’ll be easier to understand why the change is happening and will likely foster a better attitude towards the implementation.
Ensuring that the right tools are in place for business growth and efficiency shouldn’t be overlooked. Innovative software and technology can help elevate your company and maximise your employee’s capabilities. By nurturing a culture of continual development and learning, and by following the steps outlined above, you can get your team prepared for digital transformation and looking forward to the benefits it will bring.
