Managing Organisational Change – Business Travel

Lynne Griffiths

Following our recent blog on managing people through Mergers & Acquisitions, let’s delve into the broader topic of organisational change. Workplace dynamics are evolving rapidly, with restructuring, policy updates, and job reassignments becoming the norm. And the business travel industry is no different.

Embracing change is crucial for companies (and people) striving to thrive in today’s dynamic environment.

Organisational change encompasses strategic and operational modifications, such as cultural transformations and technological advancements, all aimed at enhancing workplace effectiveness. Whether driven by industry trends or economic factors, change is inevitable and essential for organisational growth.

Change can be classified into two categories:

  • Adaptability: When an organisation implements new processes to “fine-tune” what is going on within the business, like adding a new page to the company’s website or offering a new service.
  • Transformational: When an entire organisational philosophy, business structure or culture changes from the top down.

These two types of change can intertwine and happen at the same time, too.

Understanding the drivers of workplace change is key to staying ahead in today’s competitive landscape. From new leadership structures to process enhancements and job realignments, change can manifest in various forms, demanding agility and readiness from employees and organisations alike.

In a rapidly evolving business landscape, embracing change is not a choice but a necessity for sustained success.

🔹 Top Tips for Dealing with Change in the Workplace 🔹

  1. Accept that change is inevitable. Combat fear by creating order through effective communication. Managers play a crucial role in reassuring employees about the reasons behind the change.
  2. Look beyond the immediate chaos and understand how changes contribute to the bigger picture. Communicate this to foster understanding and alignment across the company.
  3. Don’t hesitate to speak up if something doesn’t feel right. Open communication with managers can help address concerns, bring new perspectives, and lead to beneficial adjustments.
  4. Recognise and adapt to different change management styles among team members.
  5. Emphasise teamwork to successfully navigate workplace changes, involving the entire team in the process.
  6. Prioritise effective communication to manage disruptions caused by change. Address concerns, highlight positive impacts, and engage employees in understanding the benefits for the business and their growth.

In managing change within a company, reassurance and clear communication are key elements to ensure a smooth transition. Providing employees with the resources they need to adapt and feel comfortable with change is crucial. Additionally, presenting new procedures and protocols clearly can help secure the team’s acceptance and cooperation during the change process.

Setting goals and staying motivated remain essential aspects during times of change. Focusing on personal and company goals, despite changes occurring, can help maintain momentum and progress. Flexibility and open-mindedness are vital in navigating change without disruption, ensuring continuous progress towards meaningful objectives.

Effective change management is essential for both productivity and employee happiness. Being proactive, understanding the reasons behind change, and communicating effectively with staff are crucial steps. Planning, early communication, inclusion and creative thinking can help prepare teams for upcoming changes, fostering a positive outlook amid uncertainty.

🔹Sirius Talent Solutions – the business travel recruitment experts