Nick Robertson, the founder of British online fashion retailer ASOS, has stepped down as chief executive after 15 years in which he transformed the internet minnow into a retail powerhouse with fans around the world. Nick will be replaced by Nick Beighton, the company’s chief operating officer, with immediate effect.

Whether it’s a new MD, CEO or a new boss at any level, it’s always worth remembering that our world is changing fast and just to keep up, organisations must change quickly too.

Those that handle change will thrive, whilst those that don’t may struggle to survive.

At the end of the day, effective change is all about PEOPLE and how well they are managed to implement the necessary changes.

But remember: People are very open-minded about new things, as long as they’re exactly like the old ones!

Follow these 5 Top Tips to help manage change effectively:-

1.Measure twice…cut once

Plan, plan, plan! Schedule and identify key steps that must occur. Set out clearly defined objectives, milestones and responsibilities. Attend to the detail; regularly review progress made. Celebrate your successes as the milestones are met!

2.Set yourself up…to SUCCEED!

Recognise the natural resistance to change. Consider how to manage reactions from individuals, teams, stakeholders, customers or other areas of the business. Engage your people with change and what they have to gain by assessing WiiFM (what’s in it for me?). Be clear with your people about what is negotiable – and what’s not.

3.Joined up thinking

Deal with the domino effect – think of the other things affected by the change that needs re-aligning to provide the necessary reinforcement e.g., reward, measurement, resources, budgets, structures, sign-off procedures and so forth.

4.Set your people up…to SUCCEED!

During any period of change, organisations typically raise the hurdles. Tackle your teams’ training and development to ensure your people have the confidence, ability and desire to clear the new hurdles.

5.Be visible

Don’t bury yourself in meetings. Get out there and get seen. Talk to your people in their own environment. Role model the behaviours and attitudes you’re looking to see in others. Show people how you’ve personally adapted as a result of the change.

Want to read more of the Top Tips?

Visit the Creativedge ‘Top 10 Tips’ mobile App available for iPhone and Android smartphones:-

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