#208: Mike Wirth, Chairman and CEO of Chevron – Show you’re listening
Oct 10, 2024
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Mike Wirth, Chairman and CEO of Chevron, has over four decades of experience in the energy sector. He emphasizes the importance of active listening, questioning, and responding to team input. Wirth shares his approach to giving constructive criticism and why he pens up to 80 notes after site visits. He discusses his leadership lessons from chef Thomas Keller and outlines a three-part strategy to unify divided teams. The conversation also touches on safety culture and the complexities of gas pricing in a competitive retail market.
Active listening and responding to team members fosters trust and encourages open communication for effective leadership.
Integrating safety as a core value and empowering frontline workers enhances operational safety and employee engagement in the workplace.
Acknowledging employee contributions through personal notes strengthens morale and reinforces a positive organizational culture.
Deep dives
The Power of Listening
Effective leadership is anchored in the ability to listen actively to team members and acknowledge their contributions. Mike Wirth emphasizes that merely hearing what others say is insufficient; leaders must demonstrate that they are truly paying attention. This involvement not only helps to build trust but also encourages open communication, which is vital for a strong organizational culture. By valuing input from every level, leaders can make informed decisions that resonate with their teams.
Prioritizing Safety in Operations
In demanding work environments, particularly in the oil and gas industry, maintaining a strong safety culture is paramount. Mike Wirth shares that safety is not just a procedural checkbox but a core value deeply integrated into company operations. Chevron has adopted innovative practices, such as forming learning teams composed of frontline workers, to identify potential risks and improve safety measures. This approach fosters a psychologically safe environment where employees are empowered to voice their concerns, ultimately leading to better operational outcomes.
Connecting with Frontline Workers
To truly understand the dynamics of a company, leaders must prioritize direct interaction with frontline employees. Mike Wirth draws inspiration from renowned chef Thomas Keller, who connects with kitchen staff to gauge the intricacies of their work. By engaging with those who are directly involved in operations, leaders can gain valuable insights that are often overlooked at higher managerial levels. Wirth emphasizes that visiting the frontlines not only builds relationships but also reinforces the importance of each employee's role in the organization's success.
The Importance of Recognition
Recognizing employee contributions is a fundamental practice that fosters a positive work environment. Mike Wirth regularly writes personal notes to employees he meets during his travels to acknowledge their efforts and the insights they share. This habit not only reinforces the notion that he values his team's hard work but also acts as a motivational tool, encouraging employees to stay engaged. By taking the time to express gratitude and recognition, leaders can significantly enhance morale and strengthen their organizational culture.
Learning from Experience
Leadership is an evolving journey that involves continuous learning from past experiences and successes. Mike Wirth discusses how past challenges, including struggles with communication and employee engagement in his early supervisory roles, have shaped his leadership approach. By seeking advice from seasoned individuals, he emphasizes the importance of collaboration and mutual learning. This commitment to growth not only helps leaders refine their skills but also encourages a culture of shared knowledge and support within their organizations.
If you want to be a good leader, you’ve got to listen to your people. But *just* listening isn’t always enough.
You’ve got to ask questions. You’ve got to pay attention. But then, you’ve to respond. That’s the piece most leaders miss, and it makes all the difference for engaging your team and solving your organization’s biggest problems.
To see how it’s done, listen to this episode with Mike Wirth, Chairman and CEO of Chevron.
You’ll also learn:
Why Mike writes up to 80 notes after a site visit
How to give criticism without making people defensive
What Mike learned about leadership from legendary chef Thomas Keller
A three-part strategy to bring a divided team together