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In any transformation, success hinges not only on the changes implemented but also on when they’re introduced. This is where the ancient Greek concept of Kairos—the “right moment”—comes into play. Unlike Chronos, which measures chronological time, Kairos emphasises the opportune timing for action. This makes it a vital tool for driving impactful and sustainable transformations. Kairos is King!
Four ways to integrate Kairos into your transformation strategy:
Priming: Laying the groundwork
Before announcing a major transformation, preparation is crucial. By introducing subtle cues—such as key messaging, symbolic visuals, or small cultural shifts aligned with your vision—you can “prime” your team for what’s to come.
This approach taps into the priming effect, a psychological phenomenon where the brain connects past cues with future expectations. This makes changes feel natural and less abrupt, reducing resistance and increasing buy-in.
Effective priming is more than preparation—it’s about readiness. People often resist change until circumstances force them to act. Laying the groundwork ensures that when Kairos strikes, your team can respond effectively.
Pro tip
Use internal communications, team meetings, and workplace branding to seed your vision gradually. This subconscious alignment smooths the path for upcoming changes.
Launch: The fresh start effect
The timing of your transformation’s launch sets the tone. Align it with moments that feel like fresh beginnings—such as a new year, company anniversary, or post-holiday return—to leverage the Fresh Start Effect.
This psychological boost motivates individuals to embrace change as part of an exciting new chapter. By linking the transformation to a narrative of progress, employees are more likely to engage enthusiastically.
Pro tip
Plan your kickoff to coincide with key dates that symbolise new opportunities. This ensures your initiative feels aligned with both personal and organisational aspirations.
Maintaining momentum: mini fresh starts
Transformation is a journey, not a destination. Sustaining momentum over time is essential. Regularly timed initiatives—such as celebrating milestones, acknowledging progress, or launching new phases—keep the vision alive.
Creating mini fresh starts throughout the journey helps your team stay energised and invested. These moments reinforce progress and achievement. Additionally, external changes, such as market shifts or internal challenges, can provide unexpected opportunities to accelerate progress—if your team is ready to adapt.
Pro tip
Break the transformation into smaller, manageable steps. This makes the process feel more achievable and creates opportunities for continuous re-engagement.
Engagement at different stages
Communication is the backbone of any transformation. However, it’s not one-size-fits-all. Strategically timing when, how, and with whom information is shared ensures clarity and alignment.
Too much information too early can overwhelm, while too little too late can alienate. Applying the principles of Kairos means tailoring communication to the specific phase of the transformation. The right message at the right moment builds trust and ensures smoother transitions.
Pro tip
Develop a phased communication plan that balances transparency with timing. Involve key influencers early to build buy-in, and gradually expand outreach as the transformation unfolds. Our people-centered transformation course on Udemy may be a helpful roadmap.
Seize the moment
Transformation isn’t merely about continuous change; it’s about initiating change thoughtfully and at the right moment. By integrating the concept of Kairos into your strategy and engagement plans, you can recognize and seize opportune moments, enabling decisive action that enhances the potential for transformative change and fosters greater alignment across your organization.
Discover how a single Kairos moment—seizing the right opportunity—sparked an organisation-wide move to online learning. See how, within a week, a crisis led to a radically new and enduring learning culture.
