Kev Hollo
Senior Consultant
Change is one of the most powerful learning experiences an organization can go through. Instead of just thinking about managing the transition, it helps to look at it as an opportunity to expand knowledge, develop new skills, and grow capacity.
A helpful framework for this is the Head-Heart-Hands model, which connects intellectual clarity (Head), emotional readiness (Heart), and practical application (Hands). When viewed through a learning lens, these three elements can shape a healthier strategy to manage and lead the change, one that considers not just where we’re going, but who will get us there and how they’ll do it.
Here are three questions to spark learning and growth during a change initiative:
What do we need to understand, and what will success look like? (Head)
Learning begins with clarity. Define the “why” behind the change and what a successful outcome looks like. This sets the stage for shared knowledge, alignment, and a sense of direction. Consider ways to weave in measurability: assessments are a great way to test what’s learned and surveys help ensure objectives reflect the reality of your learners.
Who needs support, and how will we foster learning along the way? (Heart)
Change impacts people differently, so it’s essential to anticipate learning needs. Create space for reflection, feedback, and dialogue. Provide resources that help individuals build confidence and resilience as they navigate new expectations. Asking how learners feel about a learning initiative both before and after the project can establish metrics around the change impact.
What practices and skills will help us put the change into action and sustain it? (Hands)
Learning is reinforced by doing. Establish opportunities for people to practice new skills, apply fresh knowledge, and receive coaching or reinforcement. Build in checkpoints to celebrate progress and embed lessons learned into everyday work.
When framed as a learning journey, change becomes less about “getting through it” and more about growing through it—equipping individuals and teams with the mindset, skills, and confidence to thrive.
