Solver Studio Episode 2 Recap: Leading Through Change Management

Featuring Aston Carter’s President Stuart Ferguson, Managing Director of Market Operations Lauren DeMarco, and Managing Director of Strategy and Innovation Christian Siesing.

Managing Director of Market Operations Lauren DeMarco and Managing Director of Strategy and Innovation Christian Siesing join President Stuart Ferguson in the Solver Studio. As leaders experienced in change management, their discussion focuses on the importance of clear communication and organizational agility, and how change methodology supports the customer experience. The group also reflects on major changes in the pop culture world that have impacted them personally.

Key Takeaways From This Episode

Being Realistic With Change

As Christian points out, change models in business have always existed in one form or another. The task is to clarify what the organizational change is, and what investments are needed to help drive it. Determining how to pilot change models in a business most effectively, without unnecessary distractions to the workforce is crucial.

Considering Transparency When Implementing Change

Transparency is vital when orchestrating companywide change. This can look like utilizing consistent messaging around company timelines and expectations. However, being mindful of what you share is important, Lauren advises. The pace at which information is deployed needs to be considered. However, if nothing is shared with the workforce regarding change management, then you run the risk of gossip or misinformation being shared, creating an unhealthy work environment.

Paying Attention to How the Organization Is Structured

At its core, change management is about evaluating the structures set in place that need constant examination, as new technologies are frequently introduced, and digital transformation is paramount. A lack of awareness will undoubtedly impact the organization’s ability to perform at the highest level. The group discusses the importance of knowing the bottlenecks, having clients and talent to help identify them, and leaning on the voices of internal teams to bring them to the forefront.

Stuart affirms that the pace of change can be overwhelming and that it’s vital that companies address not just the symptoms of change, but the root cause. According to Christian, once the root cause is determined it can be classified into four categories. These include structure, process, technology and our people. If leaders miss addressing where and why the problem originated, they risk losing some of the established credibility they have with their workforce.

Advocating for Yourself and Your Team

As Lauren states in the podcast episode, it’s important to be very aware of the fundamentals of your role, so it can be built on and expanded when the time comes. To do your job and do it well, consistently and effectively will put you in the best position to leverage your expertise, and have a voice during times of workplace change, ensuring the impact on you and your team is considered. Lauren also emphasizes the importance of stating your opinion and speaking up when something doesn’t feel right so your leaders can address it.

Managing Organizational Change

Throughout the episode, the leaders emphasize one crucial point. People deserve information effectively deployed to them, fostering company betterment and their professional development.

It is up to the leaders to determine the way to deploy that information to maximize its effectiveness and maintain morale. Striking the right balance is key, and as the high-performing organization constantly evolves, a consistent examination of our change methodology is essential.

If you are looking to hear more insightful conversations with our leaders check out the Aston Carter podcast page.