Change Management: Why Communication is the Key to Private Club Success

Mar 19, 2025

Brett Galloway, founder of Trestle Advisors, specializes in change management for private clubs. He discusses how effective communication is crucial for successful transformations, contrasting it with mere strategies. Brett highlights the emotional investment of club members and the need for transparent communication to combat misinformation. He also emphasizes aligning messages with the club's vision and using multiple channels to engage members. Finally, he shares insights on managing resistance and fostering trust during significant changes.

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ADVICE

Repetition and Transparency in Messaging

Repeat your message consistently to ensure it's remembered.
Use the "tell them what you're going to do, tell them what you're doing, and then tell them what you did" strategy.

INSIGHT

Root Cause of Change Failure

Change initiatives fail not due to lack of resources, but due to poor communication.
Get people to accept and embrace change for success.

ADVICE

Authenticity and Repetition

Repeat your message for memorability, but ensure it is authentic.
People can easily detect inauthenticity, so build trust.

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Episode Description In this episode, Ed sits down with Bret, an expert in change management and communication, to discuss why successful club transformations depend not just on strategy but on how change is communicated. They explore the unique challenges of implementing change in private clubs, the importance of transparency, and how leaders can effectively manage member expectations. From capital improvements to governance restructuring, Bret shares insights on how clubs can proactively shape the narrative, overcome resistance, and drive meaningful progress.

Key Moments:

The Heart of Change Management [00:00:37] – Bret explains why communication—not technology or funding—is the key factor in whether change initiatives succeed or fail.
Why Private Clubs Face Unique Challenges [00:08:46] – Unlike corporations, clubs are often governed by boards and have emotionally invested members, making consensus-driven decision-making essential.
Transparency and the Rumor Mill [00:14:06] – The importance of addressing potential changes early and openly to avoid misinformation and resistance.
The Role of Vision in Driving Change [00:19:27] – How club leaders can frame their messaging around a long-term vision that aligns with the club's mission and values.
Multi-Channel Communication Strategies [00:23:13] – The necessity of using multiple platforms—email, in-person meetings, social media, and club signage—to reinforce key messages.
Managing Resistance: What's in It for Me? [00:33:15] – How clubs can effectively communicate the direct benefits of changes to both long-time and newer members.
Setting Realistic Expectations and Timelines [00:36:07] – Why major club transformations often require a two-to-three-year horizon, and how leaders can manage expectations while maintaining momentum.
Lessons from the Chicago Board of Trade [00:38:53] – Bret shares a case study on how clear, honest communication helped execute a large-scale transformation successfully.
Final Thoughts on Change Leadership [00:44:06] – Why inspiring members and staff to embrace change is just as important as the change itself.