The So What from BCG Don't Be a Statistic. Make Transformation Work.
Aug 27, 2025
Kristy Ellmer, a leader at BCG Transform and co-author of a book on the science of change, delves into successful business transformations. She argues that involving employees is crucial and discusses the challenges of the 'messy middle' phase. Kristy emphasizes balancing structured approaches with flexibility, highlighting the need for behavior changes and storytelling to sustain motivation. She also warns about the disconnect between leaders' and employees' perceptions of change, advocating for deeper employee engagement to bridge that gap.
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Behavioral Change Matters For Success
- Transformations fail when they focus on strategy but neglect behavior and employee involvement.
- Success means achieving goals and sustaining results over three to five years.
Delta Bankruptcy Shaped Her View
- Kristy worked at Delta during its bankruptcy and found the process deeply involving for employees.
- That experience showed her how putting employees at the center creates lasting personal and company change.
Involving People Reduces Threat
- Humans treat unfamiliar change as a threat because our brains are wired for safety.
- Making people part of design reduces threat and increases commitment to change.