Initiating change means getting started, turning pressures for change into change initiatives, and taking first steps to move change forward. Research shows that six competencies define the extent to which change professionals initiate change:

1)       Ensure that key leaders are aligned around major change initiatives

2)       Help people understand why change is important (i.e. create a sense of urgency)

3)       Identify and overcome sources of resistance to change

4)       Help set the direction of change with clear outcomes

5)       Build commitment of key people to support change efforts

6)       Articulate key decisions / actions that must happen for change to make progress