The Squeaky Floorboards of Leadership: Leading Change Without Demolition

Stepping into a new leadership role is like walking into an old house with plans to rearrange the furniture. The instinct to make changes quickly is natural—after all, improving how things work is part of the job. But what many new leaders don’t realize is that the foundation beneath them, much like the floorboards of a well-lived-in home, will respond to their movement. Move too fast, and you’ll hear the squeaks—resistance, uncertainty, and discomfort from the people you’re meant to lead.

Change is necessary for growth, but it has to be done with care. As Edutopia points out, great leadership starts by respecting the history and culture that already exist within an organization (Gonser, 2021). A strong leader doesn’t ignore what’s working; they listen, observe, and build trust before making changes. When people feel valued, they’re far more open to new ways of doing things.

The Balance Between Urgency and Understanding

Some changes need to happen fast. If a system is broken, ignoring it can make things worse. But leadership isn’t about bringing a wrecking ball to an organization. If the goal is to preserve what works while improving what doesn’t, leaders must approach change thoughtfully, not forcefully.

Nearly 70% of change initiatives fail because employees resist changes that feel rushed or disconnected from their reality (Mooncamp, 2024). Thoughtful, inclusive leadership makes all the difference.

Respecting the Squeaks: Why Resistance Happens

Resistance isn’t always defiance. Just like an old house reacts to movement, people react to disruption. Sometimes, resistance signals fear, past leadership failures, or attachment to long-standing practices. Good leaders take time to understand these reactions instead of dismissing them.

Engaging employees in the change process builds trust and helps ease transitions (Center for Creative Leadership, 2024). When people feel heard, they’re more likely to support change rather than push back against it.

Knowing When a Board Needs to Be Replaced

Not every floorboard in an old house can—or should—be saved. Some are too worn out, some don’t fit anymore, and some just weren’t sturdy to begin with. Leadership is no different.

Some employees recognize when it’s time to move on, while others may need help seeing that they no longer align with the organization’s future. A good leader handles these transitions with grace and integrity, ensuring that those who leave