Embrace Change, Empower Your Career

Oct 5
2 min read

**Tina Ashton, Harcourts Chief Growth Officer**

As Harcourts nears opening its record-setting 50th new office in 2025 - a combination of new offices and rebranding, with new faces and familiar faces, new ideas, and new energy - Tina Ashton, Harcourts Chief Growth Officer, reflects on the impact of change:

Change at work can feel unsettling. Whether it's a new piece of software, a restructured team, or a shift in company strategy, the first question on our minds is often: "What does this mean for me?"

It's natural to feel a mix of apprehension and uncertainty. Our routines are comfortable, and the thought of adapting to new workflows can seem daunting. But what if we chose to see change not as a threat, but as an opportunity?

Here’s how we, as team members, can turn organisational change into a catalyst for personal and professional growth:

Seek to Understand the 'Why': Before dismissing a change, get curious. Ask questions to understand the reasons behind it. When we grasp the bigger picture—whether it's to improve efficiency, serve customers better, or stay competitive—it’s easier to see our role in the success of the initiative. Understanding the 'why' transforms a mandate into a shared mission.
Voice Concerns Constructively: It's okay to have reservations. The key is to communicate them constructively. Rather than resisting, frame your feedback as a proactive effort to ensure a smooth transition. Suggest solutions, identify potential roadblocks from your perspective, and engage in open dialogue. This positions you as a valuable partner in the process, not an obstacle.
Lean into Learning: New processes often require new skills. See this as a chance to expand your expertise. Actively participate in training, seek out resources, and collaborate with colleagues to master the new way of working. By embracing the learning curve, you not only adapt but also increase your value to the organisation and enhance your own career prospects.
Find Your Role in the Solution: Every change initiative needs champions on the ground. Be the person who helps others, shares knowledge, and maintains a positive outlook. Supporting your peers through the transition builds trust and strengthens team cohesion. Your proactive involvement can make the difference between a rocky implementation and a successful one.

Change is not just something that happens to us; it's something we can actively shape and benefit from. By approaching it with an open mind and a collaborative spirit, we can transform uncertainty into empowerment, ensuring that we not only navigate the transition but thrive because of it.