Small change: remember that people have long memories

First published on
Feb 14, 2023

When you say the word ‘change’ to your people, it will conjure up a set of associations. Such associations are often far from positive. Mishandled politics, unpopular restructuring decisions, and counterproductive communications can all cast a long shadow.

When things have gone wrong, organisations — like human beings — store trauma. And this trauma can inhibit people’s willingness and ability to engage in work that might be to their ultimate benefit.

The most effective change leaders don’t start with a blank sheet of paper, they start by seeking to understand the past.

Something to consider: as we move forward with change, what does our history have to teach us?

Explore more

Latest thoughts

Giving a team the inspiration and technique to scale ideas
“Brilliant, astute, knowledgeable, and witty.

Phil grasped our business challenge with incredible speed and led us to rethink how we do business.”

SARAH MASON – CMO, COSMOS
REPAIRING A BUSINESS-CRITICAL RELATIONSHIP
“I’m not sure, but Phil might be a magician.”

JULIE BISHOP – CO-CEO, IT NATURALLY
Getting change past the post in a complicated context
“Transformational for both my personal and professional growth.”

STUART WILLIAMSON — CHIEF CORPORATE AFFAIRS OFFICER, THE JOCKEY CLUB
Instilling accountability to help a great team do great things
“Real smarts, and the external perspective we needed.

We are now securing industry standards of margin.”

NEIL CRUMP – CEO, AURORA HEALTHCARE
COMPREHENSIVE STRUCTURAL CHANGE
“Incredibly responsive and empathetic to our specific challenges and ambition.

Phil inspired and challenged our leadership team to ensure that our transformation had our people at its heart.”

Darina Garland, Co-CEO, Ooni
Enabling a Board to work to its full potential
“His years of experience allow for a highly credible, disciplined and empathic approach.

Phil offers the right balance of push and encouragement.”

VIV HSU – PARTNER, JBI
rarr
larr