The Synergy between Change Maker & Change Facilitator

One way I like to explain what change management practitioners are doing, is by making a distinction between Change Makers and Change Facilitators. The former being responsible that the change is happening; the latter being responsible that the change is happening as effective as possible.

We can find great synergy between these two roles, supporting each other in creating lasting success for organisations. Let me dive deeper into this dream team.

Who are the Change Makers? In essence, this is every manager, leader, CEO, head of department, etc. These are people that want to achieve change in their area of responsibility. This might be new markets, new processes, different organisational structures, etc. The Change Makers are seeking organisational outcomes.

Who are the Change Facilitators then? In my eyes, these are the change management practitioners. They are supporting the projects, initiatives and the leadership teams to look at how these changes are successfully implemented. The Change Facilitators are concerned about the people side of doing business.

What both groups are sharing is the common objective to create lasting success for the organisation. This success comes from creating the right solutions and value within the ecosystem and also from the people supporting these solutions. In understanding this distinction, both parties will better understand their role in enabling the success of the overall outcome.

The Change Makers and the Change Facilitators are able to become a strong team when they understand each other and appreciate their strength and the contribution in this symbiosis. And as a cohesive and aligned team, they will be able to create a better understanding of the entire organisation by listening to the complexities of human nature. This will then lead to better insights of the challenges and opportunities. This will create clarity for the leadership teams and for the entire organisation where we are heading to.

What is your role - maker vs facilitator? How are you contributing to this synergistic team effort?