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How to Keep Less Digitally Skilled People on Board

All abord. Digital transformation brings opportunities for more efficient work processes, but not everyone feels equally confident about embracing new technologies. Some colleagues may feel hesitant or overwhelmed, especially if they are less digitally skilled. It’s your role as project manager or educator to ensure no one gets left behind. By using practical tools, personalised support, and floor coaches, you can make the transition to digital processes accessible for everyone.

Start with Understanding.

The first step in any change is listening. Ask your colleagues what challenges they face and what they need to feel more confident. Some might need extra time to learn new systems, while others may fear making mistakes. Showing understanding and working together to find solutions builds trust and reduces resistance.

Practical Tools to Ease the Transition.

Support your team with tools that make digital transformation more manageable. Consider introducing:

1. Step-by-step guides: Clear, easy-to-follow instructions with simple language and visual examples.
2. Instructional videos: Allow colleagues to learn at their own pace.
3. FAQs: A quick reference for commonly asked questions, offering immediate answers.
   These tools empower employees to practice independently and reduce their uncertainty.

Floor Coaches: Hands-on Support at Work.

One of the most effective ways to support your team is by introducing floor coaches. These are colleagues who are already familiar with the new technologies and are available to assist others. Floor coaches provide:

1. Personalized guidance: They can address individual concerns and offer on-the-spot help.
2. Accessible support: Employees can approach them without feeling judged.
3. Tailored assistance: Coaches can adapt their help to meet the specific needs of the team, such as demonstrating a particular feature.

Floor coaches make the transition smoother and foster trust on the work floor.

Build Confidence Through Practice.

Learning takes time, and not everyone progresses at the same speed. Provide employees with opportunities to practice in a low-pressure environment. Create a test setting where they can explore new systems without fear of making mistakes. Floor coaches can supervise and offer small tips, gradually increasing confidence.

Highlight the Benefits.

Resistance often stems from not understanding the purpose of change. Make sure your team knows why digital transformation is happening and how it benefits them. For instance:

1. Fewer administrative tasks, freeing up time for more engaging work.
2. Faster, more efficient processes that reduce workload and stress.

Make it personal: when employees see how the changes make their work easier, they’re more likely to embrace them.

Celebrate Progress.

Every step forward, no matter how small, is worth celebrating. Did someone create their first report in the new system? Acknowledge it. Recognizing progress motivates others to take their own steps and fosters a sense of pride. Floor coaches can play a key role by identifying and highlighting these small successes.

Moving Forward Together.

Digital transformation is not just about implementing new tools but about empowering the people using them. By providing practical tools, floor coaches, and a supportive environment, you ensure everyone can keep up with the changes. Doing so creates a workplace where technology and people grow together.