Three relationships to help you win at work (w/ Master Fixer Carla Harris)
Feb 5, 2024
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Carla Harris, Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley, discusses the importance of building relationships at work and debunks the myth of meritocracy. She emphasizes the role of diversity in leadership and the need for intentional relationships and advocates in the workplace. The chapter also highlights the importance of mentors and sponsors, and the impact of human networks in the workplace. The hosts express gratitude and introduce Paycom Payroll Management Service.
Building strong relationships is essential for succeeding in your career
Having a sponsor who advocates for you in decision-making rooms is crucial for career advancement
Deep dives
The Myth of Meritocracy
The podcast episode discusses the myth of meritocracy, which is based on the false belief that everyone has equal access to competition. It is argued that organizations often claim to be meritocratic but continue to hire, promote, and retain the same types of people, resulting in a narrow meritocracy. The importance of having diverse representation at the top of organizations is highlighted as a key indicator of a true meritocracy. The episode emphasizes that building intentional relationships and connections is essential for career advancement in the workplace.
The Three Critical Relationships at Work
The podcast explores the concept of having three critical relationships at work: advisors, mentors, and sponsors. Advisors are individuals who can provide specific answers to discrete questions related to work tasks or processes. They possess the intellect and experience to offer guidance. Mentors, on the other hand, are people with whom individuals can share their career aspirations, discuss personal challenges and triumphs, and receive tailored advice. Sponsors, the most significant relationship, exist in an individual's absence and advocate for them in decision-making rooms. The episode emphasizes the importance of formal sponsorship programs in organizations to promote equity and fairness.
How to Cultivate a Sponsor
The podcast provides guidance on how to find and activate a sponsor in an organization that does not have a formal sponsorship program. The host advises studying the organization to identify influential individuals who have a seat at decision-making tables and visibility into your work. Building relationships with these key individuals through frequent interactions and providing value specific to their needs is recommended. By investing time and effort into these relationships, individuals can cultivate sponsors who will advocate for them in critical moments and support long-term career success.
How to be an Effective Sponsor
The episode concludes with a discussion on how to be an effective sponsor. It is recommended to have important conversations with other influential individuals in the organization before crucial decision-making moments. Making the case for someone in advance and educating others about their value and potential is crucial. Sponsors are advised to educate, sell, and connect their mentees' qualifications and achievements to the goals and needs of decision-makers. The episode emphasizes the reciprocal benefit of sponsorship, as sponsors gain power and influence within the organization while helping mentees advance their careers.
Sure, we all want our work to speak for itself… but who will make sure your impact is truly seen and valued? This week, Anne and Frances are joined by Master Fixer Carla Harris. Carla Harris is a Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley, the bestselling author of books like Expect to Win and Lead to Win, and an expert on building relationships at work. This week, she brings her wisdom to Fixable to discuss why it’s impossible to have a true meritocracy – and why strong relationships are the key to succeeding in your career.