Navigating Change in Uncertain Times
Strategies for Research Development Professionals
Recently, the research and development enterprise has experienced extremely rapid changes with policy shifts, funding realignments, and administrative reorganization. For research administration professionals, this has ignited a large amount of uncertainty, confusion, and fear that can be difficult to manage.
Let’s look at some strategies for navigating this period of change and uncertainty in a healthy way:
- Adopt a Learning Mindset: Stay informed about policy developments and seek opportunities to upskill. Being proactive about knowledge builds confidence. This is not an invitation to doomscroll, but being aware of the changes and how they are being implemented at UMB (like by reading the newsletter) will help keep you grounded and ensure you are not caught by surprise.
- Ask Questions: If you hear about a change that you weren’t expecting, gather information and ensure accuracy before informing others or acting on the change. Is the information coming from a reliable source? How is UMB responding? Ask your supervisor if and how you will be impacted. We need to be careful to avoid misinformation and inciting panic.
- Model Calm and Clarity: How we respond to change influences those around us. Practicing self-regulation and clear communication sets a positive tone.
- Encourage Feedback and Dialogue: Invite questions and concerns from colleagues and respond with intention. This not only builds trust but also creates a culture of shared problem-solving.
By embracing these behaviors, research development professionals become visible examples of adaptive leadership—helping to foster a work environment that is prepared, flexible, and mission-focused.