HBR On Leadership

Rasmus Hougaard and Jacqueline Carter, co-authors of The Mind of the Leader, dive deep into the transformative power of selfless leadership. They challenge the notion that authority lies in ego, advocating for mindfulness and compassion as core leadership traits. The duo shares insights on how prioritizing others’ needs fosters emotional well-being and team dynamics. They also introduce the '2-2' prioritization method for daily focus and discuss how mindfulness can save time and boost productivity in the workplace.

Richard Boyatzis, a professor at Case Western Reserve University and author of Helping People Change, tackles the pressing motivation crisis in workplaces. He emphasizes that leaders hold the key to energizing and engaging their teams. Boyatzis shares actionable strategies for fostering a positive organizational culture, handling demotivated employees with compassion, and navigating remote team challenges. He also discusses the pitfalls of high-potential programs and the importance of communication and transparency in team dynamics.

Thomas Zurbuchen, the longest-serving head of science at NASA, shares insights from his experience managing high-stakes, complex projects, including the asteroid mission and the James Webb Space Telescope. He emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, effective delegation, and viewing failures as learning opportunities. Zurbuchen also discusses the need for a culture of innovation balanced with accountability, and the critical role of trust and communication in international collaborations. His journey reflects a deep passion for science and leadership.

Disagreeing with your boss can be tricky, but sometimes it’s crucial to voice your opinion. Learn how to balance the risks of silence against the benefits of speaking up. Discover strategic communication techniques for tackling difficult conversations, including the importance of timing and environment. You'll hear tips on maintaining a respectful tone while confidently sharing differing viewpoints, which can foster collaboration rather than conflict. Perfect for anyone navigating workplace dynamics!

In this engaging discussion, Sylvia Ann Hewlett, an economist, consultant, and author of 'The Sponsor Effect,' delves into the dynamic world of career sponsorship. She emphasizes that sponsorship is not a one-way street; both sponsor and protégé must offer value. Hewlett shares key insights on the importance of mutual benefit, the balance of accountability, and the transformative power of such relationships. Listeners will learn how to build effective sponsorships that enhance productivity and foster diversity in professional settings.

Tony Mayo, a Harvard Business School senior lecturer, talks with Rosalind Fox, the first Black female manager at John Deere's largest factory. They delve into Fox's remarkable journey from tactical to strategic leadership amid a predominantly white male workforce. Key discussions include the balance between authenticity and organizational culture, the significance of vulnerability and empathy in leadership, and how genuine self-expression can drive employee engagement and well-being.

Joseph Badaracco, a Harvard Business School professor and author, discusses the complexities of decision-making in uncertain situations. He introduces his framework for navigating 'gray area problems' and emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions. Using real-world examples, he highlights the balance between analytical approaches and human judgment. Badaracco also discusses the necessity of aligning decisions with core values, engaging in open dialogue within teams, and learning from both successes and failures to navigate ethical challenges.

Deborah Grayson-Riegel, a leadership coach, and Jasmine LaFleur, an aerospace engineer, discuss the art of delegation in leadership. They explore how poorly defined tasks can lead to chaos, comparing it to a game of telephone. Deborah highlights the importance of clear expectations and accountability while Jasmine shares her personal challenges with delegating among peers. The conversation touches on gender dynamics and communication strategies, emphasizing teamwork and the need for positive framing in delegation efforts.

Kim Scott, co-founder of Radical Candor and seasoned executive coach, shares invaluable insights on effective feedback in leadership. She emphasizes the importance of balancing honesty and empathy, allowing leaders to challenge employees while building strong relationships. Discussing personal anecdotes, Scott highlights the discomforts of giving and receiving feedback yet champions honest communication for professional growth. Listeners gain strategies for navigating tough conversations and fostering an open dialogue culture in their workplaces.

Joe Fuller, a Harvard Business School professor and co-leader of the initiative on managing the future of work, dives into the tragic case of the SS El Faro. He analyzes how critical communication failures and leadership dynamics led to the disaster during Hurricane Joaquin. By studying transcripts of crew conversations, Fuller highlights the struggle among officers to navigate conflicting advice and pressures. The discussion sheds light on the importance of clear communication and understanding human behavior in crisis situations, offering valuable lessons for leaders.