In this episode of the Micro Entreprise podcast, we had the pleasure of welcoming Marielle De Vassoigne, an expert in change management and organizational coaching, as well as an author. With over 20 years of experience helping businesses through strategic transformations, Marielle assists leaders in navigating turbulent times and successfully implementing large-scale changes. In this episode, she shares her expertise on how to manage change successfully, especially during critical moments such as restructurings, mergers, or organizational evolutions. For any entrepreneur facing change within their company, this conversation offers a wealth of practical advice and strategies for overcoming change-related challenges without disrupting team dynamics.
The importance of transparent communication
Effective change management begins with clear and transparent communication. According to Marielle, “transparency in communication creates a climate of trust, which is essential, especially during periods of change.” Too often, businesses adopt an “ostrich policy,” where decisions are made in secret and then abruptly communicated once they’re implemented. This approach can lead to confusion, rumors, and resistance to change. It is crucial to identify stakeholders, establish open dialogue, and communicate in a two-way manner, explaining both the “why” and the “how” behind the changes.
Preparing the company culture for change
One of the key elements of success in change management is company culture. “Incentives for change, or flexibility in the face of change, are often linked to the company’s culture,” explains Marielle. Some companies still prioritize stability and consistency—values that can limit adaptability. Before initiating a major change, it’s essential to ask: Is your company culture ready to evolve? A cultural shift may be necessary to prepare the organization for an agile and flexible transition, fostering innovation and experimentation.
The role of the agile method and flexibility
The agile method has become a reference for managing transformations in a dynamic environment. Marielle emphasizes the importance of adopting it: “The agile method requires clear responsibility distribution, regular check-ins, and, most importantly, measurable goals.” Agility is not just a working method; it’s a culture that values experimentation and continuous learning. Companies must learn to evolve through iterations—testing, adjusting, and testing again. This gradual approach minimizes risks and actively engages employees in the transformation.
When to call in an external consultant?
While some changes can be managed internally, Marielle often recommends bringing in an external consultant for major transformations, particularly when multiple aspects (people, processes, tools) are involved. An external consultant can provide an objective, neutral perspective, which is often valuable when there is internal resistance or tension. An experienced consultant will also help maintain team engagement and motivation and avoid the pitfalls of poorly managed change.
Measuring the effectiveness of change
Once the change is implemented, it is imperative to monitor its impact and effectiveness. The adoption of change should be measured through key performance indicators (KPIs). These metrics will help determine if the set objectives are being met and if the new practices are being sustainably adopted. Marielle gives the example of a failed implementation of a new automation tool because certain teams reverted to old habits out of convenience. “Not reverting to old practices,” she warns, “is an essential rule to ensure long-term success.”
Personalized support: A key leverage for success
Finally, Marielle places particular emphasis on personalized support. She explains that change happens “one individual at a time.” Coaching managers and teams through personalized coaching can make all the difference. In her practice, Marielle focuses on coaching middle management, which is often overlooked but crucial in delivering the message and supporting the daily implementation of change.
Conclusion: Change management, leverage for sustainable success
Successfully implementing change within a company is no easy task, but it is an essential challenge for any organization that wants to grow and modernize. Open communication, preparation of the company culture, the adoption of agile methods, and support from external consultants when necessary are all key steps in ensuring successful transformation. As Marielle reminds us, “companies must be ready to adapt and learn from their mistakes to succeed in the long term.”
By integrating these principles and adopting a structured yet human-centered approach to change, entrepreneurs can not only overcome the challenges of transformation but also turn them into real opportunities to strengthen their organization and its future.
To discover in detail Marielle’s advice and learn how to apply it to your own business, we invite you to listen to the full Mission Entreprise episode. There, you will find concrete strategies for successfully managing your change initiatives, from handling resistance to change to adapting management methods and revising company culture.
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Additionally, if you wish to receive personalized support in implementing Marielle’s recommendations or to get practical advice on change management within your company, feel free to contact our advisors. We are also always looking for experts willing to share their experiences and help entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of the business world.
