Andrew C.M. Cooper, an executive leader and author of "The Ethical Imperative," discusses the power of unconventional relationships for personal growth. He emphasizes investing in diverse connections, like 'shifters' who offer valuable insights and 'connectors' who broaden professional networks. Cooper also highlights the benefits of engaging with challenging individuals, noting that those who seem adversarial can provide critical lessons. His experiences during Operation Warp Speed underline the importance of empathy and adaptability in leadership.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Non-Traditional Relationships
Invest time in non-traditional professional relationships.
These relationships offer unique growth opportunities.
insights INSIGHT
Dory's Approach to Relationships
Dory's lack of preconceived notions about relationships helps her navigate complexity.
This open approach allows her to connect with anyone, even those perceived as dangerous.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Sharks to Mentors
Dave Stachowiak initially perceived some colleagues as "sharks."
These individuals became his greatest sources of learning.
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Leading with Conscience to Shape the Future of Business
Andrew C.M. Cooper
The Ethical Imperative offers a compelling alternative vision for business, where companies prioritize the collective prosperity of employees, shareholders, and communities. Leveraging extensive research, Andrew Cooper provides actionable strategies to transform organizations into beacons of trust and social responsibility, moving beyond short-term profit-driven models. The book is a call to revolutionize corporate culture by embracing compassion, equity, and enduring prosperity.
Andrew C.M. Cooper: The Ethical Imperative
Andrew C.M. Cooper is an executive leader and apologist for compassionate business practices. He led as a history-making first Millennial and Black executive to serve as General Counsel of UPS Airlines, the world’s largest logistics airline with over 20,000 employees. His team was essential to the success of Operation Warp Speed, the United States’ pandemic vaccine relief effort. He's the author of The Ethical Imperative: Leading with Conscience to Shape the Future of Business*.
We all know the power of relationships to help us grow. However, we don’t always seek out some of the non-traditional relationships that might help most. In this conversation, Andrew and I discuss three types of people we often overlook that will help us grow.
Key Points
Many of us invest in organic, traditional relationships. Those are important, but not sufficient in such a dynamic world.
Invest 30% of your time into relationships that will add skills, knowledge, or insights you can’t develop yourself.
Shifters observe well, read between the lines, and help us adapt in uncertain and changing situations.
Connectors will help your expand professional affiliations. Having a connector in your corner can be as helpful as being a connector yourself.
People who first appear as sharks may be benevolent antagonists. Listen for what others around them say to determine who might challenge you in healthy ways.
Resources Mentioned
The Ethical Imperative: Leading with Conscience to Shape the Future of Business* by Andrew C.M. Cooper
Interview Notes
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Related Episodes
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How to Build a Network While Still Doing Everything Else, with Ruth Gotian (episode 591)
How to Recognize Remarkable People, with Guy Kawasaki (episode 671)
Production Credit
Coaching for Leaders is edited by Andrew Kroeger. Production support is provided by Sierra Priest.
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