737: How Do You Handle Team Members Who Don’t Accept Change? - Ask Denis

What if resistance isn’t the problem, but a signal?Denis Gianoutsos unpacks one of the most common leadership challenges: managing team members who resist change. Whether it’s a strategic shift, a new system, or a company restructure, resistance is inevitable. But how you lead through it is what separates average leaders from extraordinary ones.Denis shares a 5-step approach to turn resistance into momentum. You’ll learn how to respond with curiosity, communicate vision repeatedly, protect your team’s energy, and have the tough conversations when needed. These strategies will help you not only reduce pushback but also grow stronger, more adaptive teams.#1: Start with Curiosity, Not ControlAsk: What’s behind the hesitation, fear, fatigue, and lack of clarity?Don’t label resistance as a problem; engage it as an opportunity“People support what they help create.”#2: Communicate the Why Again (and Again)One message isn’t enough; repeat the vision in different waysLink change to personal and team impactAnchor transformation to the purpose of driving emotional buy-in#3: Address the Energy DrainersSome resistance is loud and contagious; don’t let it spreadGive feedback respectfully, but protect the cultureMake it clear: feedback is welcome, sabotage is not#4: Coach for Growth or Make the CallOffer support and tools to adaptBut if resistance becomes a roadblock, take action“Leadership isn’t about being liked, it’s about doing what’s right.”#5: Celebrate the AdaptersSpotlight those who lean in and take risksRecognition can shift team culture and create positive contagionLead change through example and energyKey Quotes:“Resistance isn’t the enemy, silence is.” – Denis Gianoutsos“Leadership isn’t just about being liked, it’s about doing what’s right for the mission and for the future.” – Denis GianoutsosBook a Strategy Call with Denis https://app.leadingchangepartners.com/widget/bookings/callwithdenisgianoutsos The 10 Proven Ways to Lead and Thrive in Today's World Executive Guide Featuring 10 Key Themes and 42 Strategic Insights from Worldwide Leaders https://crm.leadingchangepartners.com/10-ways-to-lead Connect with Denis:Email: [email protected]: www.LeadingChangePartners.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/denisgianoutsos LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisgianoutsos/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadershipischanging/ YouTube Channel: