Mergers & Acquisitions – The Danger of Early Conformity

The Problem
Most M&As fail to meet synergy goals—70–90% according to HBR. A big reason? Leaders push for early conformity. Employees nod along, but resistance brews beneath the surface.

The Solution – ADKAR in Action

• Awareness – Share the real “why” behind the merger.

• Desire – Co-create integration plans with employees from both sides.

• Knowledge – Train leaders to spot false compliance.

• Ability – Build safe forums for open dialogue.

• Reinforcement – Celebrate genuine cross-team wins.

Takeaway
In M&As, silence doesn’t equal acceptance. Real adoption comes when employees are guided—not forced—into building a shared culture.

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