We all have a desire to find meaningful and purposeful work. Leaders have both the opportunity and obligation to connect with their teams. Senior executives play an important role in how their people feel about their jobs. On today’s show, Brandon and Randy discuss how leaders can increase engagement by asking the right questions and fostering psychological safety.
2:15 Randy kicks off the conversation highlighting two key elements surrounding engagement at work. He challenges leaders to lean more into their people and less on “programs.”
3:30 The three things all leaders should be doing: Ask, listen and invest.
5:45 Get back to humanity.
6:20 Brandon addresses a key problem in the lack of engagement at work. His challenge to leaders: regain control of your calendar.
8:00 The mindset shift. “Attach yourself to the desired outcome.” – Randy
11:30 Workloads change. Brandon emphasizes the importance of relationships for engagement.
14:00 The questions you should (and shouldn’t) ask during your one-on-ones.
16:00 Handle “stressful” conversations on a scale. Brandon explains.
18:00 Ask your team about their future goals (and how you can help them get there).
20:00 Psychological safety and the responsibility of the leader to hear bad news.
23:00 One of the best questions you can ask: “How’s life outside of work?” Randy shares.
26:30 The ratio of listing to speaking.
27:30 Topics to avoid in corporate conversations.
29:00 The importance of having each of these conversation in person if possible.
Show Resources:
- Check out the hosts’ books mentioned in this episode.
- Looking for additional guidance within your organization? Email: bsmith@myleadershipfoundry.com and rhain@myleadershipfoundry.com
- Never miss an episode – subscribe to The Leadership Foundry Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Google Play.
