“Flawless Consulting” with Peter Block, author of Flawless Consulting and Partner at Designed Learning
Oct 24, 2023
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Peter Block, author of Flawless Consulting, discusses the importance of authentic relationships in HR, decision-making driven by emotions, and the overrated nature of feedback. He emphasizes the need for HR to address current issues, handle resistance by uncovering doubts, and build trust through meaningful conversations. HR professionals are encouraged to take a proactive role in shaping organizational culture and driving positive change within the organization.
Building authentic relationships with business leaders is crucial for effective work delivery.
HR must focus on addressing doubts and resistance in leaders to build trust and drive change.
Deep dives
HR Impact and Neutral Consultative Approach
HR professionals need to focus on the impact they have on the organization and how they contribute to making a difference. It's not about administrative skills but about providing a neutral way of supporting line management to realize their intentions. HR leaders should help others live out their intentions to drive meaningful change.
Relationships as the Foundation of Work
Building relationships is crucial for getting work done effectively. Decisions are often influenced by emotions and connections rather than purely rational thinking. Feedback is not as valuable as authentic communication and addressing current situations. HR must aim to create trusting and authentic relationships with business leaders.
Handling Resistance and Doubts in HR Leadership
Resistance in HR leadership should not be overcome but understood as a sign of accountability challenges. HR leaders need to inquire about doubts and reservations, focusing on building trust by being present and curious without resorting to reassurance. Encouraging leaders to express their concerns and embracing vulnerability leads to more effective interactions.
Activating the Common Good and Relational Activism
The concept of activating the common good emphasizes relational protocols and building relationships as a form of activism. Rather than relying on top-down strategies, the focus is on humanizing institutions by fostering meaningful connections and enacting positive change. HR leaders play a pivotal role in reshaping organizational culture towards a more collaborative and empathetic approach.
How can you build an authentic and trusting relationship with your business leaders? Why is it important that we see our role as helping our leaders live out their own intentions?My guest on this episode is Peter Block, author of Flawless Consulting and Partner at Designed LearningDuring our conversation with Peter and I discuss:
Why relationships are the delivery systems of how work gets done
How decisions are often driven by relationships, emotions, and other factors rather than rational thinking
Why he believes the feedback is overrated
Why is critical that HR speaks authentically and addresses what is happening in the moment
How HR leaders can handle resistance and why overcoming it is about uncovering a leader’s doubts, not providing more evidence
Why asking your key stakeholders, “what about our relationship do you find valuable” is one of the most effective ways to builds trust
Why HR needs to stop waiting for a seat at the table and become the table