Coaching for Leaders

Sheila Heen, a Harvard Law School professor and expert in conflict resolution, dives into the art of handling tough conversations. She emphasizes that good intentions don't automatically negate negative impacts and highlights the importance of distinguishing between intent and impact. Heen shares practical questions to facilitate understanding, encouraging leaders to listen with curiosity rather than defensiveness. They discuss navigating workplace dynamics, the power of empathy, and transforming conflicts into opportunities for growth.

Scott Shigeoka, an internationally recognized curiosity expert and author, discusses the transformative power of curiosity in leadership. He emphasizes that curiosity should extend beyond mere information gathering; it's crucial for fostering genuine connections. Scott highlights the value of phrases like 'Tell me more' to make team members feel seen and heard. He also addresses the fear of saying 'I don't know,' showcasing how vulnerability can enhance relationships. Inclusivity and storytelling play key roles in combating societal disconnection and fostering innovation.

Adam Bryant, Senior Managing Director and Partner at the ExCo Group and author of "The Leap to Leader," shares his expertise on navigating career paths. He discusses the importance of assertive communication and how it can impact perceptions in job applications. Bryant introduces a pyramid approach to career advancement, advocating for skill diversity over traditional ladders. He also emphasizes proactive mentorship and the value of collaboration, urging new managers to build relationships and tackle bigger challenges beyond assigned tasks.

Dive into the dynamics of team feedback, exploring how trust and support can transform peer evaluations. Discover alternatives to traditional performance reviews that prioritize skills over static metrics. Join a heartfelt discussion on the rituals that can help leaders find fulfillment in their roles, combating feelings of thanklessness. Experience insights on servant leadership, emphasizing empathy and recognition. Reflect on your personal motives for leading and uncover strategies to enhance your leadership journey.

In this insightful discussion, guest Kirstin Ferguson, a prominent company director and executive coach known for her work in leadership and gender equality, delves into the art of reading the room. She emphasizes how leaders must recognize their biases and be open to diverse perspectives. Kirstin also shares personal anecdotes, including a military hike that highlights the importance of initiating connections. The conversation advocates for empathy and awareness, particularly in understanding neurodivergent experiences, to enhance team dynamics and leadership effectiveness.

Emily Field, a partner at McKinsey & Company and co-author of *Power to the Middle*, discusses the often-overlooked significance of middle managers in organizations. She reveals the unique challenges they face and argues for recognizing their role as critical to employee engagement and overall success. Emily emphasizes the need for senior leaders to support middle managers through job rebundling and talent redistribution, transforming these roles into empowering positions that enhance productivity and workplace culture.

David Rogers, a leading expert on digital transformation and Columbia Business School faculty member, shares his insights on navigating change in organizations. He explains why many digital transformations fail, emphasizing that focusing too much on technology can overlook critical organizational challenges. Rogers advocates for a shared vision and highlights the human aspect of leadership. He stresses the need for effective measurement, team engagement, and cultivating vision at all levels, empowering organizations to thrive amid continuous change.

Jacob Morgan, a trained futurist and bestselling author, delves into the crucial concept of vulnerable leadership. He discusses how authentic vulnerability can bolster leadership effectiveness and positively shape workplace culture. Through personal anecdotes, he explores the challenges leaders face when attempting to connect emotionally with their teams. The conversation emphasizes that true leadership blends vulnerability with proactive strategies to build trust and resilience, showcasing real-life examples of how sharing personal experiences can foster deeper connections at work.

Discover how to hold others accountable without the formal authority that often comes with leadership. The discussion covers the challenges of navigating accountability in organizations and introduces the 'working genius' concept to boost collaboration. Learn practical strategies for managing effective meetings and fostering a positive mindset. Delve into the complexities of dealing with narcissistic coworkers with tips for maintaining detachment and setting team values. Personal accountability is highlighted as key to effective leadership.

Jim Harter, Chief Scientist for Workplace at Gallup and author of bestselling books on management, tackles the pressing challenges of hybrid and remote work. He discusses key questions managers should ask to enhance employee autonomy and connection, like the best environments for productivity. Harter highlights cultural shifts towards remote dynamics and the vital role of strong management in fostering team engagement. He emphasizes the importance of understanding individual strengths and promoting open communication to navigate the evolving work landscape.