Dealing with major workplace changes can be challenging. Mentally preparing yourself for change can relieve undue stress and may actually create healthy advances. Whether the change in your workplace deals directly with you or with the company structure around you, keeping these tips in mind can make transition productive

1.Look for opportunity

Change, albeit stressful, can indicate growth, or at the very least, create new needs. If there are changes being made in your company, investigate any resulting opportunities and be prepared to consider how you may add value in the new context. Is there a new role you can fill, more responsibility you can take on, new connections for you to make? Will your role be growing? Is it time to renegotiate your salary or benefits as part of that growth? Be wide­eyed and optimistic about changes; change often brings opportunity with it.

2.  Be realistic

Change is a constant, for everyone. The restructuring of a job is not always a bad thing. Even outplacement can be a platform for growth. Companies change, companies grow, people change, people grow. Being realistic about the seasons of life will allow you to be flexible and will help you avoid excessive downtime mourning the loss of consistency and will help you to see the change as an opportunity rather than a burden. Seeing change rightly as an inevitability will help you to remain in tune with your value and your industry.

3. Don’t burn bridges

Your professional network is vital to continuity in the growth of your career. As an employee, treat your employer respectfully and your colleagues as team players. If you are in middle or upper management, network with individuals above your rank and treat your employees fairly. One day a change in your circumstances may mean you need to reach out to someone who is familiar with your good character and strong work ethic, and your reputation will be the defining factor in how that call is received.

If you find yourself in a new or changing role, identify individuals who have gone before you and are succeeding in the business. If others are brought into your work sphere, identify the talents and gifts they bring that you may learn to further your work enjoyment and grow your knowledge. Having a realistic, positive and opportunistic view of change will not only help you cope with the difficulties of change but will also open new doors that will further your opportunities, your current success and your job satisfaction.