Emergent Leaders Newsletter/057/How to Manage Difficult Employees in Your First Leadership Role

As you step into your first leadership role, you may meet challenges that test your confidence and willpower. One common struggle my coaching clients face is dealing with a difficult direct report.  

Recognizing the Signs of a Perceived Difficult Employee 

Here are some key indicators that you might be dealing with a problematic direct report: 

• Consistently ignores established protocols and procedures. 

• Takes liberties that are outside their scope of responsibilities. 

• Engages in spreading rumors and hoarding information or only share partial information to maintain control. 

• Overestimates their value to the organization and uses this to justify negative behavior. 

• Undermines authority through unofficial channels and retaliates against perceived slights. 

• Uses anger or tears to manipulate situations and avoid accountability. 

Understandably, confronting such behavior can be daunting – which is why most of these cases go un-checked. 

My goal is to provide you with the tools and strategies to help you approach employees effectively, transforming difficult situations into opportunities for growth and strengthening your leadership skills. 

Reframing The Idea of Difficult Employees 

Now I mentioned “perceived difficult” intentionally because I do want to emphasize that many employees labeled as difficult have significant potential for growth and success if guided and managed correctly. Often, their passion, drive, and creativity are mischanneled due to lack of direction or support. By identifying their strengths and providing constructive feedback, you can help transform challenging behaviors into positive contributions.   

I would also like to point out that so-called “difficult” employees can offer valuable lessons for leadership development. Managing such employees can teach you how to navigate various interpersonal dynamics, enhance your communication skills, and help you develop patience and resilience. It’s an opportunity to refine your leadership style, making you a more effective leader. 

With this in mind, here are some factors to consider before labelling a team member as challenging: 

Lack of Clarity and Communication 

Sometimes, employees may act out because they haven't been given clear instructions or expectations. When processes and protocols aren't explicitly communicated, employees might unintentionally violate them, leading to frustration and conflict. Ensuring that all team members understand their roles and responsibilities can mitigate many issues. 

Insufficient Training and Resources 

Employees may struggle or behave poorly if they haven't received adequate training or don't have the necessary resources to perform their tasks effectively. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, stress, and subsequent negative behaviors. Investing in proper training and providing the right tools can empower employees to meet expectations. 

Misalignment with Organizational Culture 

An employee might find themselves at odds with the company culture, which can manifest as difficult behavior. This misalignment can occur if an employee's values or working style significantly differ from the organization's. In such cases, it may be beneficial to provide cultural onboarding or mentorship to help the employee integrate better by finding some common ground.

Personal Issues 

Personal problems outside of work can sometimes influence an employee's behavior at the workplace. Stress, health issues, or family problems can cause an otherwise good employee to act out. Being empathetic and offering support, such as flexible working arrangements or employee assistance programs, can help address these issues. 

Constructive Disruption 

In some cases, what is perceived as difficult or rebellious behavior might be a form of constructive disruption. Employees who challenge the status quo, ask tough questions, or push back against inefficient processes can drive innovation and improvement within the organization. It’s important to discern whether the behavior is truly problematic or if it’s pushing the team toward positive change. 

Each employee is unique, and their behavior can be influenced by a myriad of factors. By simply getting to better know your team members and individual circumstances behind their behaviors, you can reveal underlying issues that, once addressed, can lead to significant improvement and a more harmonious working relationship. 

Dealing with Difficult Team Members  

When there is clarity around expectations, the odds of having to escalate a problematic team member’s case is significantly reduced. Unfortunately, it won’t be eliminated. If the unwanted behaviors persist despite swift and clear intervention, then it is important to manage the situation before it starts to impact others and business results. 

Here’s what to do to manage a confirmed difficult employee effectively: 

Document Everything 

Keep detailed records of the employee's behavior, including dates, specific incidents, and any witnesses. I strongly recommend that you consult with an HR professional to ensure the necessary information is gathered should the unfortunate need for formal disciplinary action become necessary. 

Set Clear Expectations and Foster Open Communication 

Clearly communicate your expectations about their performance and behavior. Outline the specific processes and boundaries that must be followed. You can even explain the impact it’s having on the team. Most people are so focused on what they’re doing that they don’t see how their behaviors are affecting others. Encourage open dialogue with the employee. Listen to their perspective and concerns but remain firm on the expectations and necessary changes. 

Provide Constructive Feedback 

Address issues directly and promptly. Use specific examples and focus on the impact of their behavior on the team and organization. By addressing it quickly, it also decreases the likelihood of a heavier and more unpleasant conversation down the road. It’s also fair to the employee, as it gives them the opportunity to change their habits before it potentially has an impact on their reputation within the team. 

Create an Improvement Plan 

Should the behavior persist after a few fair prompt warnings, develop a performance improvement plan with measurable goals and a clear timeline. Ensure the employee understands the consequences of not meeting these goals, keeping focus on business goals and desired behaviors.  

Monitor Progress 

There is no point in going through the discomfort of having difficult conversations if you won’t follow up on the agreed-upon terms of engagement. Regularly review the employee’s progress against the improvement plan. Provide objective, ongoing feedback and support, acknowledging any positive changes. It’s incredibly important for team members to feel as though you have their backs throughout their learning. 

Maintain Professionalism 

Stay calm and professional, even in the face of emotional outbursts or retaliatory behavior. Your composure will reinforce your authority and set the tone for acceptable behavior. Take a few moments prior to the conversation if necessary to clear your mind and refocus your attention on the desired outcomes of this conversation. 

Seek Support 

Consult with HR or a senior mentor for advice and support for yourself throughout the process. They can provide guidance on handling difficult conversations and and bolster your confidence, knowing your actions in line with company policies and labor laws. 

Reflect and Learn 

After the situation is resolved, take time to reflect on what you've learned. So few people do this. Fortunately, having to deal with this type of employee will be a relatively rare circumstance, but will inevitably happen again. Take note because you are likely to forget how you went about it, along with what you wished you have done differently.

Managing difficult employees is a challenging but essential part of leadership. But acknowledging that this is also a skill that can be worked on, you can learn to handle all types of employees like a pro. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to grow and develop your leadership skills. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/052/Finding the Proper Delegation Balance

As high potential individuals move into their first leadership roles, one of the most challenging transitions they face is moving from being a hands-on doer to an effective delegator.

Striking the right balance between giving your team enough autonomy to succeed, while providing enough oversight to ensure progress can be tricky. That’s why week, I’m diving into how to find that delegation sweet spot. 

Avoiding Delegation Extremes 

Delegation isn't about offloading tasks and forgetting about them. It's about transferring responsibility in a way that empowers team members while ensuring accountability and progress.

Below I list common pitfalls I see with my coaching clients’ initial habits and discuss how to replace them with more effective delegation practices. 

Micromanagement Red Flags:  

• Constant Check-Ins. If you're checking in multiple times a day without any significant updates, you may be micromanaging. 

• Providing too much instruction. Excessively detailed instructions can stifle creativity and ownership. 

• If you often redo your team's work instead of providing constructive feedback, it's also a sign of micromanagement. 

Red Flags of Too Little Oversight: 

• If you rarely receive updates on delegated tasks, it’s a sign of insufficient oversight. 

• Regularly missing deadlines without prior communication indicates a lack of follow-up. 

• Discovering significant problems at the last minute is also a clear sign of inadequate oversight. 

Striking the Right Delegation Balance 

Proper delegation involves clear communication, regular check-ins, and a supportive environment.  

Here’s what it takes to achieve a delegation balance: 

1. Clear expectations and objectives - be clear about what needs to be achieved, why it’s important, and the desired outcome. Set milestones by breaking down the task into manageable steps within the timeline. 

2. Empower your team by allowing team members to decide how to approach tasks within the given framework. You can also ensure the proper resources are provided by consistently ensuring they have the tools, information, and support they need. 

3. Schedule regular check-ins. This helps you check progress and address any immediate concerns.  

Systematic Actions for Effective Delegation 

To embed the above practices into your leadership routine, consider the following delegation action cadence you can time block into your schedule to help you stay on top of things without micro-managing: 

Daily Delegation Actions 

• Conduct brief meetings to align on daily priorities. (No more than 15-20 minutes)

• Have open office hours or scheduled times for team members to seek guidance. These time blocks are reserved for work you can easily do despite several interuptions, versus focus time blocks that are booked in for when you need to focus without interruption.

Weekly Delegation Actions 

• Hold structured meetings to review and discuss weekly progress and address any roadblocks or challenges and collaborate to come up with next steps for the team member or team. 

• Provide constructive feedback and recognize achievements. 

Monthly Delegation Actions 

• Assess individual and team performance against monthly goals. 

• Identify development opportunities and offer coaching. 

• These monthly reviews allow you to check in on overall progress against goals, provide feedback, and adjust plans, as necessary. 

Quarterly Delegation Actions 

• Review long-term goals and adjust strategies. 

• Organize activities that strengthen team cohesion and morale. 

• Quarterly meetings are more strategic in nature, and let you evaluate performance, set new objectives, and identify areas for improvement.  

The Effective Delegator’s Checklist 

To ensure your delegation approach is effective, use this checklist. (In fact, you should be asking each of your team members to rate each of the following statements as we sometimes over-inflate our delegation skills): 

• Have I clearly defined the task and its goals? 

• Does the team have the necessary tools and information? 

• Have I allowed sufficient freedom for the team to approach the task creatively? 

• Are there structured check-ins to monitor progress without micromanaging? 

• Is there a system for providing and receiving feedback? 

• Have I established clear accountability for outcomes? 

• Am I regularly accessible to provide support and guidance when needed? 

By keeping this balance, you empower your team to take ownership of their tasks while ensuring that you’re kept in the loop and can provide guidance when necessary. This balance not only helps in achieving project goals but also fosters a positive and productive work environment. 

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If you are looking for a more customized leadership development experience, leadership coaching may be the better option to get you to your professional development goals faster. Book a complimentary “Discovery Call” to discuss your goals and see if working with a leadership coach might be the way to go. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/051/Strategies for New Leaders to Manage Diverse Skill Levels

Diverse skill levels within a team can lead to perceived imbalances in workload and favoritism, depending on how the gap is handled. For new leaders, managing a skills gap is a delicate balance between nurturing low performers while not overburdening high performers.

Understanding the Skill Divertsity Spectrum

Here’s what this difference often looks and feels like within the workplace: 

Low Performers  

• Struggle to meet expectations,  

• Consistently require more guidance and support, 

• Lack confidence, 

• May be perceived by the rest of the team as receiving undue leniency, leading to feelings of resentment from team members, which then leads to division within the team.

Middle/Average Performers  

• Consistent and reliable but may feel overshadowed or neglected,  

• Tend to fly under the radar because they don’t stand out in any way, which contributes to disengagement or stagnation. 

High Performers  

• Excel in their roles,  

• Often become the go-to individuals for critical tasks, 

• This can lead to burnout and feelings of unfair treatment among their peers. This resentment also often leads to division amongst team members. 

Now, you might think the solution is easy: simply “Let the lower performers go!” However, studies have shown that when a “bottom” is removed, it will quickly be replaced by another.  This doesn’t in any way mean you’re destined to have to tolerate under-performers. It means you must be very intentional about how you tolerate and manage the lower performers to elevate the team’s bottom line. Every situation will require (and deserves) a swift, yet fair assessment to properly figure out the best fit next course of action. Approaching the situation with an open mind is your best bet.

Indicators of imbalance amongst Team members

As a leader, be vigilant for these signs that might show an imbalance of workload within your team: 

• Workload Disparity: High performers consistently receive more challenging tasks, while low performers get simpler assignments. 

• Resentment and Morale Issues: Team members express frustration about perceived preferential treatment or lack of recognition. 

• Burnout: High performers showing signs of stress or fatigue due to constant high demands.

• High turnover: Team members are often leaving for other opportunities. Your department feels like a revolving-door. 

• Stagnation: Middle and low performers not showing progress or growth, feeling disengaged from their roles. 

Strategies to help Level (and elevate) the Playing Field

To manage a team with diverse skill levels effectively, consider these actionable strategies: 

1. Offer Transparent Communication with ALL team members 

Holding regular one-to-one meetings with all team members to understand their needs, aspirations, and challenges is a great start. You can use the time to communicate expectations and provide current feedback. These meetings are also a fantastic opportunity to share additional necessary information each team member needs to do their jobs well.  

2. Offer Tailored Professional Development Plans 

Create individualized development plans that address each team member’s strengths and areas for improvement. Team members mentally check out when they don’t feel the learning is relevant to them. Synchronous learning (where a large group is taught the same thing at the same time) is phasing out and we are seeing a much greater demand for "a la carte” professional learning and development opportunities and delivery methods. Be open to allowing team members to learn in ways that resonate with them.  

3. Delegate with Purpose and Foster a Collaborative Culture 

Rotate responsibilities to ensure all team members have opportunities to tackle challenging and routine tasks. Pair high performers with low performers on projects to foster mentorship and knowledge sharing. This also has the added benefit of reducing the likelihood of disruptions when a team member leaves on holidays or for extended periods of time or there is a gap in the team until new hires are on-boarded and brought up to speed with their responsibilities. 

4. Recognize and Reward 

Recognize achievements across all levels, celebrating both small and significant milestones. Ensure rewards and recognition are based on merit and improvement, not just high performance. It makes success feel achievable for all members, which in turn entices them to perform at the highest levels. 

5. Set Clear Goals and Metrics 

Unfortunately, I’m finding that this level of clarity is only given once a leader perceives a performance issue. Giving this type of directive provides all team members with an equal framework to be successful when clear, achievable goals are aligned with their skill level and potential. Use metrics to track progress and hold everyone accountable - right from the start.  

The impact of Ignoring the issue

Leading a team with diverse skills sets is hard, but so is leading a disgruntled team. To quote Keith Craft, you get to “Choose your hard”.

Here are some factors to consider should you choose to not address the skills imbalance on your team:  

• Decreased Morale because of team members feeling undervalued or overburdened, which can lead to low morale and high turnover. 

• Reduced Productivity as discontented and burnt-out team members can significantly affect overall team productivity and performance. 

• Stagnation, affecting the team’s ability to innovate and adapt. 

• Erosion of trust in leadership due perceived favoritism, damaging team cohesion and collaboration.  

Inferior performance can be contagious. Unfortunately, most people would rather leave their current job provide the feedback to anyone who has the power to make the necessary changes. If you’re a leader, don’t be fooled. If your team is quiet, you should be concerned and ask more questions. 

Managing a team with diverse skill levels is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right strategies, you can create a balanced, productive, and harmonious team environment. By fostering transparent communication, tailored development, purposeful delegation, and a collaborative culture, you can honor each team member’s learning journey and ensure fair treatment for all.  

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/047/Navigating Employee Performance: When to Support and When to Let Go

As leaders, we often find ourselves grappling with the dilemma of whether to provide additional support to struggling team members or to make the tough decision of letting them go. It's a delicate balance that requires careful consideration and empathy. Larger corporations usually have the advantage of having a well-developed HR team, well connected to all types of resources to provide the support to team members and help guide leaders and their team members sift through the available options that would best suit the employee in question. However, small to medium-sized companies don’t have this luxury. Handling performance issues and supporting team members through them rests solely on the management team – many of which have little to no leadership experience.  

In this week’s newsletter, my hope is to help those small-medium-sized organization leaders who feel overwhelmed, frustrated or stumped about how to go about helping their struggling team members. I will explore how much support as well as the various types of support you might want to consider offering to an underperforming employee and identify certain flags that might indicate that it might be time to make the difficult decision to part ways. 

How Much Support is Enough? 

Supporting underperforming employees is not only an act of compassion but also a strategic investment in your team's success. Before considering termination, it's crucial to exhaust all avenues of support and development if the leader feels the potential is there. Here are some common  

Key actions to take to support struggling team members 

Clear Expectations  

Before we get into any remedial strategy, I’ll begin with the obvious. If your team members aren’t crystal clear about what is expected of them, this could be an easy place to start. Ensure that your expectations are communicated clearly from the outset. Providing detailed job descriptions, performance metrics, desired project outcomes and regular specific feedback sessions all help keep team members on track. As a leader, it can be difficult to identify this being an area to work on because it is often a leader blindspot. By nature of their roles, leaders have access to a lot of information that most front-line or middle-management leaders don’t, and so while all of this might seem obvious to them, it rarely gets relayed to all parties. To find out if this needs improvement, ask various team members the following:  

Do you have the information you need to do your best work? 

Do you get the feedback you need to do your best work? 

Another indicator could be often having to resend the work back to be redone or if you feel like you constantly have to “fix” things when projects are nearing completion. 

Training and Development  

Identify areas where the employee may need more training or mentorship and provide resources to help them improve. These resources don’t have to cost much. It could be in the form of courses, pairing them with a more experienced team member, facilitating a mentorship collaboration with an experienced member in the field. Regardless of the strategy, pairing the support with access to time to fully take advantage of it during workday hours will more likely ensure more openness to it and successful adoption of the learning. 

Coaching and Feedback 

As I mentioned earlier, smaller organizations that don’t have access to a complete human resource set-up are often left to their own devices to support struggling team members. Since smaller organizations also have a more “all hands on deck” approach, leaders rarely have time to dedicate to providing extra supports. If this is the case, coaches can be your best ally. From 360’s, customized goal-setting, progress monitoring and coaching conversations, coaches can take on the bulk of the work when leaders don’t have time for it. Again, this partnership is much more likely to be successful if the team member is given the opportunity to incorporate this work (usually only 30 minutes to 1 hour/week) during their work-day schedule. Coaches are specially trained to focus on strengths while addressing areas for improvement so that struggling employees feel empowered, rather than punished in their improvement journey. 

Supportive Environment  

Foster a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees feel comfortable expressing concerns and seeking help. Encourage open communication and help when needed, though remember to ask what type of help they are looking for. Leaders often assume that helping will mean jumping in and doing the work with or for them. Sometimes employees just need a sounding board or reassurance that they are on the right path. 

Performance Improvement Plan (PIP)  

This is really a last resort. If the employee's performance does not improve despite your efforts, consider implementing a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP). Clearly outline expectations, timelines, and consequences for non-compliance, and provide ongoing support through any or all the means listed above throughout the process. Regardless, document everything – and always consult with an HR professional for best practices specifically revolving around this. 

I will end the strategies with this: SO many issues can be prevented if leaders made regularly scheduled structured 1-to-1's with each of their team members. While it may take time out of the schedule, I guarantee it will pay off in time spent on fixing/re-working/frustrations experienced without them. 

Indicators it's Time to Let Go 

Despite your best efforts, there may come a point when it's clear that continuing to invest in an underperforming employee is no longer feasible. Here are some indicators that it might be time to consider termination, though I will caution that any leader should always consult their HR representative to properly document to ensure employee and labor laws are being respected in the process.  

Termination should NEVER come as a surprise to an employee. 

• Consistent underperformance, despite added supports; 

• Negative impact on team morale and productivity;  

• Repeated violation of company policies; 

• Lack of effort or improvement. 

The Impact of Inaction on the Team 

As leaders, it's essential to recognize the ripple effect that inaction can have on your team. Failing to address underperformance promptly can lead to a myriad of negative consequences. 

How, you ask? Let’s see:

Diminished Team Morale  

When team members perceive that underperformance is tolerated or overlooked, it can erode morale and motivation. Resentment may build among high-performing employees who feel their efforts are undervalued. If this persists, high-performers tend to start looking for opportunities with higher-functioning teams elsewhere – and take other high-performers with them. 

Increased Workload and Stress  

Temporary workload shifts are to be expected with a team member is experiencing a major life event. This is normal – and most team members are happy to help others in times of crisis, knowing the favor will be reciprocated if they were ever in that situation. However, when the same team members are forced to pick up the slack caused by a consistently underperforming colleague, it leads to extended periods of increased workload and stress. This can result in burnout and decreased job satisfaction in your high performers.  

Impact on Team Dynamics  

Underperformance can disrupt team dynamics and cohesion, leading to strained relationships and communication breakdowns. We often see high-performers silo begin to isolate themselves from the rest of the team. Trust and collaboration may suffer as a result, impeding the team's ability to work effectively together. 

As a leader, you get to set the standard and tone of your team. In fact, it’s YOUR responsibility to strike a balance between providing support to struggling team members and making tough decisions when necessary. By taking proactive steps to address underperformance and recognizing when it's time to let go, we can create a more productive, engaged, and harmonious work environment for our teams – with time, it may even negate the need future unpleasant performance-type conversations. 

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If you are looking for a more customized leadership development experience, leadership coaching may be the better option to get you to your professional development goals faster. Book a complimentary “Discovery Call” to discuss your goals and see if working with a leadership coach might be the way to go. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/046/Crafting Your Personal Brand As A New Leader

As you step into leadership role, it's natural to wonder how you should present yourself and what persona you should embody. While it's easy to get inspiration from other leaders and essential to learn from their experiences, it's equally important to stay true to yourself and embrace your unique personality. Your personal brand should reflect who you are as a leader and what you stand for. 

Your personal brand is what sets you apart and builds trust and authenticity with your team. 

Here are some helpful strategies to help you craft your personal brand as a new leader: 

Build Your Self-Awareness  

Take the time for introspection and reflection. What are your strengths, values, and passions? What leadership style feels most authentic to you? What do you want your leadership to be known for? There are also self-assessment tools to help you get even more in-depth knowledge into your character. Only YOU can answer those questions and they invite you to truly discover your authentic self, which is the first step in shaping your personal brand. 

Define Your Values  

Your values are the guiding principles that inform your decisions and actions. Identify what matters most to you as a leader and ensure your behavior aligns with these values. Share your values with the team, and you will notice that when values are aligned – it's easier to tune out the noise and get everyone rowing in the same direction. Consistency in upholding your values builds credibility and trust among your team.  

Be Genuine  

Authenticity is key to building meaningful connections with your team. Don't try to mimic the leadership styles of others. Instead, be genuine and let your true self shine through. We’re talking small talk. Engaging in conversations around things other than work-related topics will help you get to know your team members and peers and allow them to see your non-work side. What people are really looking for in these conversations is a way to find things they have in common with their co-workers. People are more likely to follow leaders who are real and relatable. 

Communicate Effectively  

Your communication style plays a significant role in shaping your personal brand. Whether it's through verbal or written communication, be clear, concise, and transparent – and ensure it matches the messages you deliver. When people know what’s going on and are kept in the loop, they are less likely to act defensively. Listen actively to your team members and foster open dialogue. 

Lead by Example  

Actions speak louder than words. Demonstrate your values and leadership principles through your behavior. If you believe in work/life balance, then act in accordance with someone who does. If you give your team members to be innovative and take risks, then don’t be hard on them for taking calculated risks if it doesn’t work out. This is a great area to ask for feedback on because this is easily a blind spot for many leaders.  

Seek Feedback  

Speaking of feedback, continuously seek it from a wide cross-section of your team members, peers, and mentors. Ask for constructive criticism and be open to learning and growth – and then create a plan to act on it. Feedback is one of the most invaluable tools in refining your personal brand and enhancing your leadership effectiveness, as it reflects your current team’s needs and wants. 

Stay Authentic 

When you have a firm awareness around these factors, it is so much easier to be confident in your role as a first-time leader and stand firmly when making important decisions. While you may have assumed that taking on a leadership role entails becoming someone you are not, quite the opposite is true. A leadership journey is often a portal into the world of self-improvement and alignment. In fact, strong, effective and long-standing leaders understand this very well – and it helps them stand steady when faced with challenges.  

Don't feel pressured to conform to a certain leadership archetype. Embrace your uniqueness and let your authentic self be your most powerful asset to not only help you function, but also stand out, as an amazing leader – and inspire others to do the same.  

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 If you are looking for a more customized leadership development experience, leadership coaching may be the better option to get you to your professional development goals faster. Book a complimentary “Discovery Call” to discuss your goals and see if working with a leadership coach might be the way to go. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/045/Signs you are struggling to shift as a do-er to a leader in your first leadership role

So, you’ve taken on your first leadership role! As you navigate this exciting step, it's common for first-time leaders to find themselves caught between the familiar comfort of "doing" and the expansive demands of "leading." Transitioning from a do-er to a leader can be a challenging shift, one that often requires a shift in mindset and approach. Many emerging leaders find themselves struggling to find time for new leadership responsibilities because they are still entrenched in old patterns. If you’re finding yourself to be frequently overwhelmed, it might be time to assess whether this concept might apply to you.  

Here are some signs you're stuck in "do-er" mode, along with some questions to consider: 

1. Do you often feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of tasks, yet struggle to see significant progress in your team's overall goals? As a leader, your role is to serve your team and organization. Reflect on whether your actions are solely benefiting you or if they are contributing to the growth and success of your team members. 

2. Are you finding it hard to delegate tasks, instead preferring to handle everything yourself to ensure it's done "right"? Effective leadership involves letting go of the need to control every detail. Ask yourself if you are empowering others by delegating tasks and trusting them to excel. 

3. Are you constantly caught up in the day-to-day operations, without stepping back to think about the bigger picture and long-term goals? Stand back to assess where you are directing your energy. Are you caught up in the minutiae of daily tasks, or are you actively working towards the strategic vision of your team? 

4. Do you find that your team members are not growing as much as they could be, perhaps because you're not investing enough time in coaching and mentorship? Your success as a leader is intricately linked to the development of your team members. Consider how you are nurturing their skills, providing feedback, and creating opportunities for growth. 

5. Are you hesitant to embrace new ideas or ways of doing things, sticking to what has always worked for you in the past? Leadership thrives on innovation and adaptability. Evaluate whether you are open to new perspectives, willing to learn from others, and ready to embrace change. 

Effective tips to help you Make the Shift from “do-er” to leader  

Embrace Delegation   

Recognize that you cannot do everything yourself. Delegate tasks based on team members' strengths and trust them to deliver results. This not only frees up your time but also fosters a sense of ownership and growth among your team.  

Strategic Focus   

Set aside dedicated time to think strategically. Define clear goals for your team (with your team) and align their efforts towards achieving them. Regularly revisit these goals to ensure everyone stays on track.  

Invest in Your Team  

Prioritize the development of your team members. Offer guidance, coaching, feedback and time to help them reach their full potential. A strong, empowered team reflects effective leadership.  

Seek Feedback and Learning   

Actively seek feedback from your team, peers, and mentors. Be open to constructive criticism and use it as a tool to help guide your focus to improve your skills. Additionally, continue learning through books, workshops, and networking opportunities.  

Lead by Example  

Finally, remember that your actions speak louder than words. Demonstrate the qualities you wish to see in your team—such as resilience, adaptability, and a growth mindset. Think about your main discontent – and behave in a way that meets your expectations.  

Transitioning from a do-er to a leader is a journey and it's okay to feel challenged or uncertain at times. Recognizing the signs is half the battle. By asking yourself the right questions and embracing the advice shared here - and then actually acting on it, you'll be well on your way to becoming a confident and impactful leader.  

Wishing you success on your leadership journey! 

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If you are looking for a more customized leadership development experience, leadership coaching may be the better option to get you to your professional development goals faster. Book a complimentary “Discovery Call” to discuss your goals and see if working with a leadership coach might be the way to go. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/042/How Narrative 360s Propel New and Emergent Leaders Forward

As new leaders step into their first leadership roles, the path ahead often shrouds in a mix of excitement and trepidation. They're eager to make an impact, yet the weight of responsibility can be daunting. Enter the narrative 360—a highly effective, yet under-utilized tool designed to shed light on the path forward towards leadership success. 

What’s a Narrative 360?

Imagine if you could step into the shoes of everyone around you at work. A narrative 360 does just that—it’s a process that allows you to see yourself through the eyes of those you work with. Here's how it works: 

A 3rd party (i.e., moi, your leadership coach!) seeks feedback from a pre-selected group of your peers via a confidential conversation (most often by phone) to gain as many different perspectives as possible. For example,  

• The Team's Perspective: Some or all your direct reports provide feedback on how you lead, communicate, and support them. 

• Your leader's View: Your boss weighs in. They share insights on your decision-making, problem-solving, and overall impact on the team. 

• Peer Insights: Your colleagues—those you work alongside—offer their perspectives. They share thoughts on your collaboration skills, influence, and contributions. 

• Client or Customer Feedback: Lastly, if you work directly with clients or customers, their input is also often included. This reflects how they perceive your service, communication, and meeting their needs. 

The process of Narrative 360’s gathers all these viewpoints into one comprehensive picture of your leadership style. It's like creating a mosaic with pieces from different perspectives, forming a clearer image of who you are as a leader. What emerges is not just a picture but a roadmap—a clear guide to areas for growth and development. Together with your coach, we create a plan to focus a key areas that surfaced and check in to ensure the intended change is created over a few short months through adjustments in habits. 

Most people read this and will generally fall in one of two trains of thought:  

1. Are you kidding me? Who would subject themselves to this?!? Or... 

2. Interesting! I would love to get this type of feedback and know what people really think. 

For those at the center of this process, however, it's natural for anxieties to surface. The idea of opening oneself up to feedback from various angles can trigger a wave of apprehension. Yet, it's precisely in this discomfort that growth can happen. THIS is the type of vulnerability they talk about in leadership development books! 

If you are one of those folks that cringe at the thought of being at the center of this process, I get it. It isn’t for everyone – and that’s OK! But if you’re also feeling “stuck” in your growth or career, or wondering what else you need to do to feel seen at work, or wondering why you seem to be getting passed on for promotions, hear me out just a little longer... 

What can a narrative 360 do for you? 

• This process helps you see your strengths in action and identifies areas where you can grow. It essentially heightens your level of self-awareness. 

• With a clearer understanding of your strengths and growth areas, you can focus your efforts on what matters most. This is how you get the most impact in the least amount of time. 

• By understanding how others perceive you, you can strengthen connections with your team, manager, peers, and clients/customers. This happens all the time. As leaders engage with feedback and take steps towards growth, relationships within teams AND across departments flourish. Authenticity breeds trust, and it fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation. 

• Undergoing this process communicates to others that you're taking proactive steps toward becoming an even better leader. It also makes you a model for growth amongst your peers – and it tends to be contagious. So, while you might be the initial “target”, it also creates an opportunity for your feedback providers to reflect on their own habits and/or roles in workplace dynamics.  

• Many leaders who undergo narrative 360s find themselves on the fast track to promotion, their honed skills setting them apart in a competitive landscape. 

The benefits of a narrative 360 extend far beyond the initial discomfort. Leaders who undergo this process emerge stronger, more resilient, and generally better equipped to navigate the complexities of leadership. 

Still feeling a little hesitant? Fear not, or…feel the fear but do it anyway! 

As with anything in life, we don’t advance by avoiding our fears. Rather than thinking about being in battle or in confrontation with your fears, why not use them to intuitively guide you to the root of the issue. For example,  

• if you fear being criticized, know this: Every critique, no matter how sharp, is an opportunity for growth or evolution. And just as an FYI – never, in the 5 years of doing narrative 360’s, has a feedback provider personally attacked their peer in their feedback. The focus is on your habits – not YOU. There is a difference.  

• If you fear uncovering blind spots, consider the feedback as a chance to align our self-perception with reality.  

• If you fear having to change some of your ways, remember growth and evolution need change. Instead of fearing change, see it as a force propelling you towards your fullest potential.  

• If you fear being vulnerable, know that vulnerability is not weakness—it's a mark of immense courage. It takes strength to lay bare one's imperfections. 

So, to the new and emergent leaders standing on the threshold of growth, stuck between fear and possibility, remember this: the discomfort you feel is the precursor to transformation. Embrace it, lean into it, and watch as it propels you forward on your leadership journey. 

 A narrative 360 is not just a process—it's a testament to your commitment to growth, your courage to confront fears, and your dedication to becoming the leader you aspire to be. Step boldly into the feedback, as it has within it the recipe for your success. 

In the words of John F. Kennedy, "Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other." Embrace the narrative 360 as your compass, guiding you towards leadership excellence. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are immeasurable. 

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 If you are looking for a more customized leadership development experience, leadership coaching may be the better option to get you to your professional development goals faster. Book a complimentary “Discovery Call” to discuss your goals and see if working with a leadership coach might be the way to go. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/041/The Art of Self-Advocacy for Career Success

Have you ever looked around your workplace and wondered why some individuals seem to effortlessly climb the ranks of leadership while others appear to be stuck in the same role for what feels like an eternity? The frustration of being passed over for promotions can be demoralizing. So, what sets apart those who ascend the leadership ladder quickly from those who seem to hit a career plateau? Many think that working harder is the solution, when in fact, it has nothing to do with getting promoted (if you’re already a high performer). 

So, what could be holding you back? If you find yourself stuck in a professional rut, several factors might be contributing to your stagnation: 

- lack of visibility 

- limited skills 

- reluctance to step outside comfort zones 

- inadequate self-promotion 

- absence of mentorship or guidance 

Out of curiosity, how would you rate yourself on each of the factors listed above? If not high, don’t worry because there is a single remedy that could address most of these: Advocating for yourself!  

I know what you’re thinking: “I don’t want to come across as arrogant.” or “I don’t know how to talk about my achievements without sounding sale-sy.”  

I get it. But you also need to get this: while humility is an admirable quality, are you open to the possibility that you may be leaning on it too much? Underselling yourself will hinder your progress. And while you might be excelling in your current role, if your accomplishments go unnoticed by higher-ups, it's really challenging for them to consider you for promotions. It’s the same for any business. A business owner could have the best product, but if no one knew about it, how would they make any sales? How could they continue to thrive as a business without marketing its product?  

My challenge for you is this: Try looking at your work-self like you would any other product on the market. How much marketing are you doing to elevate your product? Is it any surprise you’re not getting the results and attention you need to scale your career as you envision it for your future self? 

There are several ways to authentically advocate for yourself without feeling like you’re compromising your values and integrity. Here’s how you can get started:  

First, you’ll need to decide what you want for yourself. Develop a career growth plan by defining your short-term (2-5 years) and long-term career goals (10 years +).  

If you have a solid professional relationship with your boss, share your plan with them. Have them pick at it, ask questions. The idea is about shedding light on things you might not have thought about while also softly advocating for yourself by making your intentions known. Then, create a roadmap with actionable steps to achieve them. For each milestone in your plan, you should include aspects of the following 9 strategies:  

1. If you don’t already have a growth mindset, you will have to start cultivating one now! This means:  

- embracing challenges as opportunities for learning and growth;  

- viewing setbacks as temporary obstacles, rather than permanent roadblocks;  

- staying curious and continuously seeking ways to improve yourself. 

- focus on the skills and knowledge needed to reach your next goals. 

There are a ton of resources out there, but you don’t have to read the whole library to learn them all. Extend yourself some grace and patience, just as you would to a good friend. Focus on what’s directly ahead and don’t expect to change overnight – growth takes time.  

2. Don't wait for others to recognize your achievements. Articulate your value proposition confidently and assertively. This will require confidence, clarity, and tact to ensure you are heard and taken seriously (this is why having a clear vision of your career goals will help!) But “How do I advocate for myself without sounding pushy or full of myself?” you ask? Here are some things for you to try:  

- when discussing your accomplishments or ideas, emphasize the value they bring to the team or organization. 

- use specific examples and metrics to prove the results of your work. 

- frame your achievements in terms of how they benefit the company's goals or bottom line. 

- When discussing your achievements, mention the contributions of your team members or collaborators. 

3. Request feedback from supervisors, peers, and clients to gain insights into your performance and areas for improvement. I do this all the time with narrative 360’s for my clients. By asking for feedback (and acting on it), you are showing your willingness to grow and improve AND growing your network of supporters in the process.  

You can even go the extra step and acknowledge the support and guidance you have received from mentors or colleagues and/or pay it forward and offer to provide similar type of feedback for another colleague. 

4. When highlighting your accomplishments or sharing ideas, use "I" statements to take ownership, however balance this with a focus on teamwork and collaboration. For example: "I led the project team to achieve our goals." Or “While I took the lead on this initiative, it was the collective expertise and creativity of our team that brought it to fruition.” 

5. Prepare elevator pitches by developing concise and clear statements about your skills, achievements, and career goals. These "elevator pitches" can be useful in networking events, performance reviews or casual conversations about career growth. Practice delivering these pitches in a confident yet humble manner (i.e., refer back to point #5). Be ready to deliver it on a moment’s notice - you never know when you’ll bump into someone who could potentially support you on your journey. 

6. Show professionalism, respect and integrity. This means staying out of the office gossip and drama loops completely – even if working with friends. Avoid speaking negatively about colleagues or taking credit for others' work. Maintain a professional demeanor in all interactions, whether with supervisors, peers or subordinates. Respect the perspectives and contributions of others, even when advocating for your ideas. The idea here is that you demonstrate that you are a model for leadership presence and behavior, which makes it easier for the higher-ups and decision-makers to picture you in such a role. 

7. Cultivate positive relationships with colleagues, supervisors, mentors, sponsors and other industry professionals. Mentors and sponsors are particularly excellent resources for those who aspire to scale the corporate ladder and can offer some valuable insights on the inner workings of the company so that you can better understand what is truly valued by the leadership team.  

Engage in meaningful conversations, offer assistance and express genuine interest in others' work. People won’t necessarily remember your accomplishments, but they will always remember how you made them feel during your interaction. Once you’ve nurtured those relationships, you can then leverage your network for career advice, opportunities, and referrals.  

8. Ask for opportunities rather than favors. When seeking new challenges or responsibilities, frame it as a desire to contribute more to the team. This will help prevent you from sounding entitled or expecting special treatment. 

For example, you can frame your request as such: "I'm interested in taking on a new project that aligns with my skills and interests. How can I get involved?" 

9. Last, but certainly not least, be true to yourself and your values. Advocating for yourself doesn’t mean pretending to be someone you're not. Your authenticity will shine through, and you will earn respect when you seek ways to be in service of others.  

While some individuals may seem to ascend effortlessly, their journeys were often also studded with dedication, resilience, and a commitment to growth, which encompasses many of the similar challenges and inner turmoil you might also be experiencing right now.  

Remember, your career path is unique and comparisons to others can be counterproductive. Focus on developing your skills, seizing opportunities for growth, and advocating for yourself. With persistence, determination, and a clear vision of your goals, you too can achieve the leadership levels you aspire to. 

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If you are looking for a more customized leadership development experience, leadership coaching may be the better option to get you to your professional development goals faster. Book a complimentary “Discovery Call” to discuss your goals and see if working with a leadership coach might be the way to go. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/040/Leading Beyond 'Me': The Secret to Elevating Your Team While Propelling Your Leadership Success

As leaders step into their first leadership roles, it's essential that they recognize the subtle but powerful shifts required to excel in this new terrain. I see this all the time: many of my clients have excelled academically and thus far in their careers by highlighting unparalleled dedication and drive. Yet, the transition to leadership has them sometimes feeling like they’ve hit a roadblock. 

As a result, they do more of what they know: they work harder, longer hours, trying to replicate the formula that brought them success before. Marshall Goldsmith, one of the world’s leading Executive Coaches, even wrote an excellent book on the topic: “What got you here won’t get you there”.

To truly flourish as a leader, a shift in focus from "me" to "we" is essential. 

If you are an aspiring leader or have newly been appointed direct reports but feel like some invisible barrier is keeping you from achieving the positive results you’re so used to, this might be your so-called “blind spot”.  

Here are some red flags to watch for, along with some strategies to recalibrate your approach if any of these flags resonate with you: 

Red Flag #1: You value solo achievement over your team’s (or team member’s) success.

If this resonates, don’t worry – you're not alone. Nearly 60% of newly promoted managers underperform in their roles due to their inability to transition from individual contributor to team leader. This means that rather than orchestrate their teams and create an environment for others to succeed, they have their heads down doing the work themselves – the way they did before becoming a leader.  

What could you do instead?  Celebrate team wins vocally and visibly. Acknowledge the contributions of others in meetings and reports. Remember, a leader's success is measured by the accomplishments of their team. And if you have visions of scaling the leadership ranks, this is one of those skills you will have to get good at.  

Red Flag #2: Ignoring the impact of emotions on team dynamics and productivity.

While many may scoff at the impact of so-called “soft skills”, get this: Research from the Harvard Business Review shows that 80-90% of the competencies that differentiate top performers are related to emotional intelligence (i.e - soft skills). 

What should you do? It would be helpful to first understand that your team’s morale directly affects their performance. Invest time in developing emotional intelligence by practicing active listening, seeking feedback and getting to know your team and what they need to feel supported to do their best work. 

Red Flag #3: Micromanaging rather than empowering.

Most employees don’t love to be micromanaged. What does that mean? It means controlling every little aspect of their work. For example, it could look like telling them exactly how to do a task rather than focusing on the result and letting them do the work in a way that appeals to them. It could look like making them show you every task they complete for your seal of approval rather than trusting them to do the work well. It could look like making them ask for your seal of approval for every decision they make.

Advice: Delegate responsibilities and empower your team members. Provide guidance and support but trust them to execute tasks. This fosters a sense of ownership and encourages creativity. If this makes you nervous, set regular 1-to-1's and discuss what the product needs to look like. You can do the same for each milestone. This will still keep you in the loop, but without micromanaging. 

Red Flag #4: Ignoring, brushing off or avoiding feedback and growth opportunities.

This is my favorite, and one of the reasons why I do the work I do: a survey by Zenger Folkman found that leaders who ranked at the bottom 10% in asking for feedback were rated at the 15th percentile in overall leadership effectiveness. Let me put this simply: As a leader, if you don’t ask for feedback, you are likely to be ranked incredibly low on effectiveness. And yet, so many leaders avoid it!  

How can you reframe your thoughts around accepting feedback? Listen, you’re already a hard worker – no one is questioning that. But if there is one thing that can have massive impacts on your success as a leader, it’s the gift of growth feedback from your stakeholders can provide. If your boss won’t provide it, seek it out somewhere else. Think mentors, peers or reaching out to a leadership coach. For example, as a coach, I do the digging so that my clients can focus on their work and habits. Then once you receive the feedback, actively take part in leadership development or coaching programs to hone your skills. If you ask enough people for feedback, a trend will emerge. Use that as your area of focus. 

If these pointers aren’t enough to sway you or you’re still not sold on why organizations put so much value on these factors, then maybe offering you the business perspective exactly how these come into play when it comes to running a business (or from your organization’s perspective):   

Enhanced Team Performance  

When a leader focuses on the collective success of the team rather than individual accomplishments, it fosters a culture of constructive collaboration. Team members feel valued, supported, and motivated to work towards common goals. As a result, the overall performance of the team improves significantly. This then translates to better and more business.  

Improved Employee Morale and Retention  

A "we" mindset proves to team members that their contributions are integral to the team's success. This recognition boosts morale, leading to higher job satisfaction and increased loyalty. Employees are more likely to stay with an organization where they feel valued and part of a cohesive team. This means lower employee turnover rates. As I mentioned in my earlier newsletter (Reframing Leadership Coaching and Professional Development As A Strategic Investment For Long-term Success), companies care about employee retention because it is expensive – not to mention, disruptive.  

Increased Innovation and Creativity  

Collaboration and teamwork are catalysts for innovation. When team members are encouraged to share ideas, challenge perspectives, and work together towards solutions, the result is an environment that nurtures creativity. A "we" mindset promotes a diverse range of viewpoints, leading to more innovative problem-solving approaches. In a competitive landscape, innovation helps win the race.  

Stronger Relationships and Trust  

A leader who prioritizes the team's well-being and success earns the trust and respect of team members. This trust creates a supportive environment where open communication, constructive feedback, and healthy conflict resolution thrive. These are conditions where great work is produced. 

Sustainable Success and Legacy 

Lastly, leaders who prioritize the success and growth of their teams set the stage for sustainable success. By nurturing a culture of collaboration and empowerment, they leave a legacy of strong teams that can carry the organization forward by attracting even more exceptional talent for continued success.  

By embracing the "we" mindset, emerging leaders not only elevate their teams but also set the stage for their own long-term success and the prosperity of the organizations they lead. It's a shift that redefines what true leadership is all about—inspiring, empowering, and bringing out the best in others. 

So, to all aspiring leaders out there, remember that the journey from "me" to "we" is not just about changing your mindset; it's about unlocking a world of possibilities and paving the way for extraordinary achievements, both individually and collectively. 

If you'd like to dive deeper into these concepts or explore strategies for fostering a "we" culture within your team, I'm here to help! 

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If you are looking for a more customized leadership development experience, leadership coaching may be the better option to get you to your professional development goals faster. Book a complimentary “Discovery Call” to discuss your goals and see if working with a leadership coach might be the way to go. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/037/Feedback: The Driver of Leadership Excellence

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving landscape of today's business world, effective leadership is more crucial than ever. New and emergent leaders face unique challenges as they navigate their roles and strive to make a meaningful impact on their teams and organizations. Yet, there is consistently one common hurdle that many leaders encounter: the reluctance to give and receive specific constructive feedback. 

In many organizations, the culture surrounding feedback is fraught with fear and apprehension. Leaders, their superiors, and HR departments often shy away from providing feedback out of concern that it may be perceived negatively or trigger defensive reactions. Instead, they tend to resort to infrequent and ineffective vague feedback at yearly performance reviews, missing valuable opportunities for growth and development. 

As a leadership coach specializing in helping new and emergent leaders elevate their skills and habits, I have encountered this challenge repeatedly. However, I believe that reframing thoughts around giving constructive feedback is not only possible but essential for fostering a culture of open communication and driving leadership success.  

Here are five strategies to help leaders embrace feedback and create a culture of open communication within their organizations: 

Highlight the Growth Opportunity  

View feedback as an opportunity for growth and development rather than criticism. By shifting your mindset, you can embrace feedback as a valuable tool for honing your leadership skills and improving performance. And when team member strives to elevate their skills, there is usually at least a couple more that will follow suit, which elevates the entire team. 

Focus on Specific Behaviors 

Provide feedback on specific behaviors rather than making generalizations or judgments about character. This approach makes feedback more actionable and less personal, fostering a constructive dialogue between yourself and your team members. It’s also much less likely to trigger defensive behavior. 

Promote a Feedback Loop  

Emphasize the importance of ongoing feedback conversations rather than relying solely on annual performance reviews. Making these feedback conversations the norm will make it easier for everyone. I encourage very regular check-ins to allow for timely feedback and support, enabling teams to course-correct quickly and drive better results rather than be blind-sided by delays near the deadline. 

Encourage a Growth Mindset  

Foster a culture of learning and resilience by promoting a growth mindset among team members. Through my coaching, I’ve witnessed vaious struggles leaders tend to have with team members - and one of the most frustrating traits they all seem to face, regardless of the field, role, experience - is having to lead someone that does not have a growth mindset (someone set in their ways - unwilling to change because “that’s how they’ve always done it”). So, if there is something that should be of high priority on your leader’s list of things to do, it is this: Openly embrace challenges, learn from failures, and see feedback as a steppingstone to leadership mastery. Regularly talking about these things with your team, and including owning some of your own gaffs can help. 

Lead by Example 

Last but certainly not least - lead by example by soliciting and acting on feedback yourself. In fact, this should be the very first place to start. Demonstrating vulnerability and openness to constructive criticism sets a positive tone for the entire organization, leading to increased transparency, collaboration, and innovation. Model every behavior – from asking for feedback, to receiving feedback gracefully and finally acting on it – and continually asking for further feedback. One comment I always receive when doing 360’s for leaders is at least a couple of their direct reports say they are inspired by their leader’s willingness to commit to self-improvement. THIS is what true vulnerability looks like in the workplace, and it is an admirable quality. 

By implementing these strategies, organizations can unlock the full potential of their leaders and teams. A culture of open communication fosters continuous learning, drives performance and innovation, and cultivates a supportive and engaged workforce. In today's dynamic business environment, all leaders should look for an edge to make themselves and their teams better. Embracing feedback is an important catalyst for growth and development —and it is essential for leadership success. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/035/Transforming Procrastination Lies into Leadership Success

In the fast-paced world of leadership, the ability to take decisive action and lead by example is paramount. Yet, many leaders find themselves entangled in a web of procrastination, telling themselves lies that delay crucial support to their direct reports and impedes the progress of projects.  

In this week’s newsletter, I call out five common lies leaders tell themselves to justify procrastination and shed light on the negative consequences it has on their teams. If any of the following 5 lies resonate with you (as in, you frequently use one or some of them), take notice. Fortunately, it’s not all doom and gloom. Procrastination is a habit that can be changed. You simply need a more compelling reason to shift to more proactive leadership habits.  

Here goes! 

Lie #1: "I'll get to it later." 

The reality: Delayed support equals delayed success. 

Let’s be real - we ALL say this at some point. But if it becomes a pattern, then it’s a habit. In leadership, this is probably the most common one hear - especially when it comes to addressing their direct reports' needs later. However, postponing mentorship and guidance can impede the growth of team members. Procrastination not only stifles individual development but also creates a culture of inertia within the team, hindering overall progress. And if you have high potential team members, you will risk losing them.  

Lie #2: "Once I complete this project, then I'll focus on my team." 

The reality: The project never truly ends. 

Leaders tend to convince themselves that once a particular project is completed, they will shift their focus to team development. However, in the ever-evolving landscape of leadership, there is always another project/crisis/reason on the horizon. The delay in supporting direct reports persists, leading to missed opportunities for growth and innovation. Learning needs to be an integral part of each of your team members’ schedules. It is the only way to ensure continuity in their growth. 

Lie #3: "They'll figure it out on their own” or “It's character-building."  

The reality: Neglect breeds frustration and disengagement. 

Allowing direct reports to navigate challenges on their own under the guise of character-building can lead to frustration and disengagement. This doesn’t mean doing the problem solving or work for them. It could be as simple as acting as a sounding board. Procrastination in providing guidance can cause team members to feel undervalued and disconnected, ultimately impacting their performance and morale. Again, high-potential team members are more likely to leave because of this.  

Lie #4: "I'm too busy; they'll have to wait." 

The reality: Busyness is a choice; priorities reflect values. 

Leaders often use busyness as an excuse for delaying support to their teams. However, effective leaders recognize that prioritizing their team's development reflects their values. Procrastination due to perceived busyness sends a message that the team's growth is not a priority, leading to diminished trust and motivation. 

Lie #5: "I was successful without much guidance; they'll be fine." 

The reality: Times have changed; coaching, mentorship and sponsorship accelerate success in today’s extremely competitive environment. 

Some leaders believe that because they succeeded without significant guidance, their direct reports will also thrive independently. However, the dynamics of the workplace have significantly evolved. Coaching, mentorship, and sponsorship are now recognized as catalysts for accelerated success. Procrastination in providing these supports deprives team members of valuable insights, lessons learned and potential future career opportunities. 

As a leader, your actions speak louder than words. If you don’t openly model and shift the behaviors that you expect to see in your team members, then it’s difficult to blame them for the team’s lack of success. If you say that continuous learning and development is important to you, then prove it to your employees.  

In case you’re looking for a more compelling reason to shift some of the procrastination habits, try this: Imagine a future where your proactive leadership habits prevail and your team is filled with dream employees who thrive under your thoughtful guidance and support.  

Though this doesn’t have to stay a vision. It can become the reality IF you are willing to carve space in your schedule (and theirs) and create conditions to allow growth to occur. Remember that leadership isn’t just about achieving personal success; it's also about empowering others to reach their full potential. By acknowledging and dismantling the lies that fuel procrastination, you can pave the way for a future where all your team members transform into dream employees.  

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If you are looking for a more customized leadership development experience, leadership coaching may be the better option to get you to your professional development goals faster. Book a complimentary “Discovery Call” to discuss your goals and see if working with a leadership coach might be the way to go. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/034/Leadership Strategies to Enhance Team Buy-In and Reduce Conflict

In the dynamic landscape of leadership, one of the recurring challenges faced by new and emergent leaders is the struggle to gain team buy-in. Through a recent survey, I discovered that a considerable number of new leaders identified "getting buy-in" as the primary source of conflict within their teams. So, in this week’s newsletter, we will delve into the roots of conflicts arising from the lack of buy-in and explore actionable strategies leaders can implement in their day-to-day practices to foster team cohesion while enhancing buy-in for various initiatives. 

Before we delve into the solutions, let's examine the substantial negative impact a lack of buy-in can have on a team’s success. According to a study by Harvard Business Review, teams with low levels of buy-in experience decreased productivity, higher turnover rates, and a decline in overall team morale. Additionally, the lack of alignment with organizational goals and strategies can hinder innovation (or even prevent) the achievement of business goals. 

Understanding the Roots of Conflict When it Comes to Getting Buy-In

So, if getting everyone rowing in the same direction is so important, why is it often so difficult? Below are the 3 most common reasons for lack of buy-in.

Unclear Vision and Objectives 

Ambiguity about the purpose and goals of an initiative can breed resistance. Leaders, it is YOUR role to articulate a clear vision. You can also outline the benefits and impact of the proposed changes. This clarity helps team members connect their individual contributions to the overall success of the initiative. 

Communication Gaps  

Often, conflicts arise when there is a breakdown in communication – especially when it comes to communicating upcoming changes. As a leader, you must ensure transparent and effective communication to convey an initiative's purpose, benefits, and potential challenges. Why is this important? Because a lack of understanding has a tendency to lead to skepticism and resistance among team members. By improving transparency and communication, you will help reduce fears around the unknown and defense mechanisms are less likely to get activated, emotions are less likely to get triggered and productive and effective conversations are more likely to take place. 

Inadequate Involvement  

Team members are more likely to resist initiatives when they feel excluded from the decision-making process. Part of your role as a leader should be to actively (and regularly) involve your team in discussions, seeking their input and valuing their perspectives. This enhances the quality of decisions because you are considering more varied perspectives, but it also serves double duty by fostering a sense of ownership among team members. And when people feel a greater sense of ownership, they tend to care more about the quality of output. 

Winning Strategies

With this increased awareness around the 3 most common sticking points, below are some actionable steps leaders can take to help mitigate these common obstacles. 

Trust and Credibility 

Because trust and credibility are the foundation of effective leadership, leaders should invest time in building it with their teams by showing consistency (ex. applying consistent decision-making criteria), honesty (ex. demonstrating humility), and reliability (ex. providing consistent support, feedback and praise). When team members trust their leader, they are more likely to support and get on board with proposed changes.  

A Collaborative Culture  

Encourage collaboration by creating an inclusive environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their feedback, thoughts and ideas. And then together, create an action plan to ACT on it. Getting to know your team members – and letting them get to know you through small talk is also a wonderful way to connect with them, and more likely to lead to collaborative workplace relationships. When possible, collaborative decision-making not only leads to better outcomes but also cultivates a culture of mutual respect. 

Context and Rationale 

Ensure that team members understand the 'why' behind decisions. Clearly articulate the rationale and potential benefits of an initiative, proving how it aligns with organizational goals (and potentially even each of your team members’ skill set acquisition goals). This information equips team members with the understanding needed to support and champion the proposed changes. It also goes a long way to preventing your team members from perceiving you as the gate keeper of information.  

Navigating the challenges of team buy-in requires proactive leadership and a commitment to fostering a culture of collaboration and open communication. By addressing the roots of potential conflicts and implementing these strategies, leaders can reduce resistance, enhance buy-in, and create a thriving team environment. As a leader, you should strive to consistently model the key behaviors to expect to see from your team members. The ripple effects will improve team dynamics and contribute to the long-term success of your team, which will help build your credibility and strengthen your reputation as a leader. 

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If you are looking for a more customized leadership development experience, leadership coaching may be the better option to get you to your professional development goals faster. Book a complimentary “Discovery Call” to discuss your goals and see if working with a leadership coach might be the way to go. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/033/New Leaders: Avoid disappointment by Addressing the Execution Gap With Your Team

So, you’ve successfully defined your vision, you’ve clearly communicated it to your team members – and you now THINK they KNOW what to do and what’s expected of them. All that’s left to do is for people to go out there and DO THE WORK. But, as you've likely experienced, having others executing on YOUR vision can be challenging. Many new leaders find themselves and their teams stuck in the "execution gap" – the space between knowing what needs to be done and actually making it happen.

This week’s newsletter addresses some common hiccups new leaders face when it comes to bridging the execution gap and explores some strategies to help lead teams to take action.

Potential roadblock #1: Unclear Objectives 

Sometimes, the vision is clear, but the objectives are fuzzy. When it comes to describing the vision to your team, you can more or less picture it in your head: what the end-product will look like, what it will accomplish, who it will help, etc. However, the factors that would constitute the project a success aren’t as clear. And so, what happens isn’t necessarily that a team doesn’t execute on your vision, but rather, they execute on THEIR interpretation of your vision, which can be vastly different things. Each person will have their own perspective – and if you have a team of 8, well – that's potentially at least 8 different interpretations of your vision. This makes it incredibly difficult to get everyone moving in the same direction.  

Fix #1: Clarify Your Vision

Be as descriptive as possible, by including information such as quantifiable targets, time frames, benchmarking against past performance, relevance to all other objectives, measurable metrics, responsibility assignments, frequency of reporting, data sources, boundaries or tolerances, alignment with company values, etc. (you can check out John Doerr’s book “Measure What Matters” , which delves into this topic and is a fantastic reference guide.) 

To ensure your team understands the specific goals and outcomes you're aiming for, ask each of them to reframe what they understood from the assignment. By using their own words to verbalize their understanding, it will help them uncover holes in your vision or reveal some areas they need more clarity on. This is also a terrific opportunity for you to fine-tune the vision for everyone before all parties go off on their own to start executing on the vision.  

Potential roadblock #2: Inadequate Planning 

A common mistake new leaders tend to make is assuming their team members “just know" what to do and how to do it. Instructions are sent out and tasks are delegated, but no further planning or instruction is given.

Fix #2: Break down the project into smaller, actionable steps. 

Set realistic timelines and allocate resources effectively. Set time aside for the planning – this is often missed. The vision is created but the execution plan isn’t. So, as you set aside time to create the path to success, involve various stakeholders to ensure they will have the resources available to support your initiative within the time limit you want to get it done. All the planning in the world will not help if the pieces don’t fit. One last thing: if the course set out is new, I strongly suggest carving a more specific path in collaboration WITH your team, with more bite-sized steps. Why? Because team members are more likely to not get overwhelmed and get stuck in delays when they know EXACTLY what needs to be completed, and when it feels more manageable.  

Potential roadblock #3: Lack of Communication 

For some reason, so many leaders are afraid to “over communicate” out of fear of annoying their team members. I’m here to tell you that I have yet to meet anyone who feels that their leaders over communicate. On the other side, leaders also tend to complain about not learning about potential delays or issues from their direct reports until deadlines are looming.  So not only do leaders tend to under-communicate, but they also complain about the fact that their teammates do the same. Ha! 

Fix #3: Clear and consistent 2-way/open communication 

Clear communication is the glue that holds a team together. As a leader, it’s up to you to model the desired behaviors. Regularly update your team on progress, challenges, and adjustments to the plan. Not only will your team members NOT be annoyed, but they'll be grateful to have a transparent leader. Anticipate potential roadblocks and have contingency plans in place. And communicate that you expect the same level of transparency from your direct reports. Make it safe for them to come to you with challenges or issues. This doesn’t mean problem-solving for them. Sometimes, they just need a sounding board or confirmation to move forward confidently.  

Potential roadblock #4: Resistance to change 

New initiatives often face resistance. This is 100% normal – even when a change will bring about a better outcome for the team.  

Fix #4: Empathy 

Approach the situation with some empathy. Remember what it was like to be in your team members’ shoes. Some team members might have legitimate reasons to be concerned. Knowing you will absolutely get push-back from some, anticipate (or ask them about) their concerns and address them together. If change is inevitable, asking open-ended questions like “How would this have to be implemented for you to be comfortable or accepting of the change?” or “What parts are you resisting to/which ones are you can you live with?” This way you are still making clear that the change will happen, but you are also opening the door for their input on a potentially easier or better transition. Be as open to different possibilities as you are asking your team members to be. Encourage your team members to think about how they will personally benefit from the change and help them foster a sense of ownership. The news will land differently if they are given the space to process and are re-directed to think about the potential positive aspects. News around change will also land differently if your team members know you have their backs and will be there to support them throughout the shift. 

Potential Roadblock #5: Lack of Continuous Improvement 

I get this all the time from leaders (and experience this myself when it comes to having to learn new technologies). The initial time demands on top of the awkwardness that comes with learning something new is enough to make anyone dread learning a new skill.  

Fix #5: Creating a culture of learning and adaptability  

If a project or initiative requires learning vastly different skills, giving team members a grace period to learn a specific skill sets that will serve them is the kind thing to do. I completely get that it is not always possible, but if the learning curve is factored into the strategic plan, it mentally gives your team members some breathing room and is less likely to create some tension and delays from inaction. Part of creating a culture of learning and adaptability is creating conditions within the workday to make space for it and respecting that space on a regular basis.  

By incorporating these strategies into your leadership approach, you'll not only help bridge the execution gap when it comes to getting team work completed, but it will also create a foundation for your team’s long-term success.

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If you are looking for a more customized leadership development experience, leadership coaching may be the better option to get you to your professional development goals faster. Book a complimentary “Discovery Call” to discuss your goals and see if working with a leadership coach might be the way to go. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/032/Taking Charge of Your Career Satisfaction

As a leadership coach, I've observed a couple of common threads among those who are unhappy in their current roles: 1) the lack of self-awareness around personal fulfillment (which I covered in my previous newsletter) and 2) the tendency to externalize the responsibility of their happiness. This means blaming everything and everyone else for their discontent. Essentially, they wait for good things to happen to then rather than make them happen. 

It's common for individuals to tie their happiness to external factors such as job titles, promotions, or the validation of others. The danger with this approach is that these elements are often beyond our control, leading to a perpetual cycle of dissatisfaction and discontent. Waiting for external circumstances to dictate our happiness can create a sense of powerlessness and frustration. The irony of it is that using external factors to dictate our state of happiness will often backfire – because in doing so, we tend to compare ourselves and what we have to others. And there will ALWAYS be someone with more credentials, higher income, greater networks and contacts, better job titles, and so on. 

So, what types of things are within your control when it comes to your own career satisfaction? How can you increase your work/life satisfaction even if you don’t love where you work now?  

In preparation for the new year, this week’s newsletter explores the transformative power of internalizing this responsibility by making more intentional choices and choosing to step into the new year with a mindset geared towards personal fulfillment. Below I list some strategies to help you get started and have you feeling more in control of your career and life satisfaction:  

Taking Ownership of Your Happiness  

The key to unlocking career satisfaction lies in taking ownership of our own happiness. This involves a shift in mindset from a passive "things happening to me" perspective to an active "I am in control" stance. Instead of waiting for the perfect job or external validation, individuals can make intentional choices to shape their careers in alignment with their values and aspirations. You might not even be aware of all the career possibilities that exist. Research, ask questions, learn new skills and be open to different ideas. 

Living Intentionally  

Living intentionally means making conscious choices that align with your values, passions, and long-term goals. This is really at the crux of the coaching I do. Helping my clients envision how they need/want to show up and help them create habits that will bridge the gap so that they feel more in alignment with their vision. This can be as simple as identifying your values – what's profoundly important to you. (If you don’t know how, I have a “life values” activity on my webpage: https://www.aspiretomore.ca/persprofdev-resources). Living more intentionally when it comes to your career could also involve setting clear career goals, pursuing skill development, or seeking out new challenges that push you beyond your comfort zone. By taking deliberate steps to shape your professional journey, you empower yourself to create a fulfilling and meaningful career.  

Mindfulness and Reflection  

Being mindful and regularly reflecting on your career journey are powerful tools for enhancing happiness. Being mindful allows you to "be present" in the moment, which then allows you take pause to appreciate what you have, what you've achieved thus far and process new challenges to learn the most from them. Reflection on the other hand, provides insights into what truly matters to you, helping you make informed decisions about your career path. If that seems too challenging, then perhaps simply asking yourself “What do I want my days to look like?” every day to hone that vision, so that you can then act towards it. 

Building a Support System  

Navigating your career journey alone can be challenging. And relying on family and friends who only know you to be a certain way can stifle your ability to think about your career on a grander scale. Reach out to someone who is living out the career that you aspire to have. Ask questions and get them to challenge your assumptions. Building a support system of mentors, peers, or a career coach can provide valuable guidance, perspective, and encouragement. Surrounding yourself with a positive and supportive network can reinforce your commitment and will be essential when charting new waters. 

Setting Intentions  

Consider setting intentions rather than resolutions. Intentions are about the mindset and direction you want to cultivate in the coming year. Reflect on what truly brings you joy in your career, identify areas for growth, and set intentions to step into actions that align with your values.

Regardless of the direction you choose over the next year, stepping into it with a mindset of personal responsibility for happiness can really be transformative. By internalizing this responsibility, making intentional choices, and living with purpose, anyone can shift from a state of discontent to a more fulfilling and satisfying career.

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If you are looking for a more customized leadership development experience, leadership coaching may be the better option to get you to your professional development goals faster. Book a complimentary “Discovery Call” to discuss your goals and see if working with a leadership coach might be the way to go. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/031/Why That Promotion Won't Necessarily Solve Your Woes

As a leadership coach, I come across a LOT of high-potential and high-achieving professionals who, despite achieving the careers they think they want, are burning out and don't have the level of life satisfaction they thought they would have once they finally achieved role they wanted for so long.  

And so, we notice a disengagement and a constant quest to achieve higher and higher ranks to try to fill that void. Why? I believe it is because most people – even the seemingly super successful ones, are stuck on autopilot. They are spending too much time doing things they think they should be doing, and not spending enough time doing things that fill their buckets and truly bring them joy.  

With time, they begin to feel like shells of their earlier selves. They begin to feel detached – or at least, over time feel like they have less and less in common with their peers. They begin to live for the weekends and holidays. They find themselves getting sick more often – and having to take time off. They have no energy. They feel resentful of others. They also often begin to engage in habits that numb their discontent. Does this sound familiar?   

The scary thing about this spiral into unfulfillment is that you don’t really notice it – I mean really pay attention to it, until you’ve hit or are near rock bottom. We are, by nature, very adaptable – while we think we are good at holding it together by engaging in some habits for short-term benefits, it eventually inevitably catches up to everyone who chooses to ignore the signs of discontent - or a “mid-life crisis”, if you will.  

So, what are some of the ineffective coping habits that even highly educated, highly successful individuals engage in to escape the effects of career and life disengagement, and what habits should they be replacing them with to more effectively discover and work towards their life's purpose to feel the fulfillment we are longing for?  

Ineffective Habit #1: Excessive Work Hours 

Fact: Doing more of something that isn’t making you happy will not bring you closer to being happy or feeling engaged in your work. 

What you could try instead: Set boundaries and take breaks to recharge. Make the most of your time off, not by doing more work at home, but by incorporating some activities that bring you joy. If you don’t know what brings you joy, try something new regularly. It’s up to YOU to discover what lights you up. And it won’t happen by sitting idle or wishing it to just appear.  

Ineffective Habit #2: Perfectionism  

I’d like to challenge your idea of perfection. Perfection is a myth. What might seem perfect to you might not be to someone else. If this is a struggle, I am certain that you are wasting HOURS every single week ruminating on trying to achieve your idea of perfection.  

What you could try instead: Rather than hold yourself to the subjective standard of “perfect,” find out what needs to be done to achieve the utmost desired outcome. Focus on excellence rather than perfection. The difference between the 2 is accepting that it might not be flawless, but it will still be of outstanding quality. Be open to learning from your mistakes and celebrating your achievements. 

Ineffective Habit #3: Ignoring Personal Well-being 

Neglecting physical and mental health due to a busy schedule is a very short-sighted coping strategy. Without your health, nothing else will really matter.  

What you could try instead: Begin by setting a few minutes aside every day to prioritize self-care activities, including regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and mindfulness practices. Healthy individuals are more resilient and better equipped to handle challenges.  

Ineffective Habit #4: Lack of Delegation/Inability to say “no” 

Refusing to delegate tasks can lead to overwhelming workloads – it's also a form of procrastination. Not only can this lead to burn out, but it will also stump your ability to grow professionally.  

What you could try instead: Ask yourself: “If I say yes to doing this, then what will I have to say no to?” Is there something else I should be doing?” “What am I avoiding?”  Are you finding that you get to the end of the day without feeling like you didn’t really move the needle much on things that mattered? Learn to delegate effectively (or say “no”) and focus on things that are of high priority to YOU. 

Ineffective Habit #5: Over-Identification with Work 

Tying self-worth solely to your professional achievements. Super common with high-achievers!  

What you could do instead: Cultivate a well-rounded identity that includes personal interests, relationships, and hobbies. The fact is a holistic sense of self provides a buffer against burnout. But this can’t be achieved if you don’t have proper boundaries in check. 

And last, but not least... 

Ineffective Habit #6: Lack of Goal Alignment 

Pursuing goals that are not personally meaningful to YOU.  

What you could try instead: Align your career goals with your values. Spend your time on things that you believe in and enjoy talking about. By identifying with your purpose-driven goals, you will naturally begin to engage in activities that provide intrinsic motivation and fulfillment. The key is to take some time to develop that awareness in the first place, which will allow you to gain clarity of what truly matters. 

By recognizing and replacing these ineffective coping habits over time, it is possible for leaders to feel a greater sense of fulfillment and purpose. This approach not only enhances individual well-being but also contributes to a healthier organizational culture.  

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If you are looking for a more customized leadership development experience, leadership coaching may be the better option to get you to your professional development goals faster. Book a complimentary “Discovery Call” to discuss your goals and see if working with a leadership coach might be the way to go. 

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Working in the professional and personal development space, I love learning by immersing myself in different programs – not only to continually challenge my thinking, but to help grow my coaching skill set.  

At the moment, I am trying out another life coaching program and have been so impressed by the quality and the delivery information and coaching support – especially for an online program.  

That is why I am more than happy to now promote it: It is Mary Morrissey’s DreamBuilder Program, which is currently being offered at 50% off for a limited time. If you think you might benefit from life coaching, I recommend you at least have a look:

Click here for more information about Mary Morrissey’s DreamBuilder Program.

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/028/How to Break Barriers to Your First Leadership Position

Assuming a victim’s mindset when things don’t go your way when applying for a promotion is probably one of the worst things you can do to help yourself professionally. Not only will the negativity provide confirmation to the hiring team that they made the right call by selecting someone else, but it also creates an atmosphere where you risk alienating co-workers. Focusing on skills that are within YOUR control is a habit ad skill in itself that will help you better understand how to improve your “luck” rather than leave things at chance. This way, you are more likely than not to at least get the results you want, more often than not.  

I wrote this newsletter with the best of intentions: to help individuals snap out of their “Why am I always passed on for this promotions/job?” funk and tell you the thing others may not have the courage to tell you. The great news though, is that mindset and habits are like muscles – they can be worked out and improved on, leading to version 2.0 of yourself. In fact, it’s preferable that you hone the skills listed below BEFORE stepping into a leadership position so that you can hit the road running once in the role. If you are ready to, examine your behaviors and habits from each perspective listed below to see if you perhaps sometimes fall into these traps:  

Lack of Initiative and Proactiveness  

Most individuals prefer to wait for opportunities to come to them rather than actively seek them out. In a competitive job market, waiting for leadership roles to fall into your lap is a recipe for stagnation. And while yes, it would be nice for HR or your boss to bring opportunities to you or celebrate your wins to the powers that be so that you are at top of mind when the next promotion opportunity arises, it rarely happens. Taking proactive steps such as volunteering for projects, expressing interest in leadership roles, and seeking mentorship or coaching are good stepping stones. With each of these opportunities you seize, you will increase your visibility, expand your skill set, and create a reputation for being a proactive and engaged team member. 

Limited Networking and Relationship Building  

Keeping a low professional profile and neglecting to build meaningful connections is another aspect of working on your professional growth. Networking is crucial for leadership positions, as it enhances visibility, provides mentorship opportunities, and fosters a supportive professional community. It also shows that you can collaborate and create work-bridges that go beyond your own personal work. I recommend at least trying to attend industry events, join professional groups, and actively cultivate relationships within and outside your organization. Try to go into these conversations with a curious mind and seek to understand others’ pain points and how you might be able to help or bring value. Keep in mind that these people you will meet don’t owe you anything – so make sure you leave a positive impression of your interactions, rather than have them feeling like you are only about asking for favors. Something as simple as connecting people who could mutually help each other is valuable, and then nurturing that connection with follow-ups. Access to new opportunities, a stronger support system, and a reputation as a collaborative and connected professional will help others perceive you as more than a “do-er”. 

Resistance to Change and Adaptability  

If as an employee, you prefer to stick to the familiar and resist change or new responsibilities, then forget about being assigned a leadership role. Leadership positions demand high adaptability and a willingness to not only embrace the change, but they also need to then sell it to their team so that they can get everyone rowing in the same direction. In addition, the tendency to resistant change hinders personal growth and limits potential for advancement. If seeking out new challenges seems daunting, embrace change as an opportunity for growth, and continuously develop your skills. Rather than focus on all the negative aspects of the changes, try to see how you will benefit from them. Will they bring about a new opportunity to highlight your skills? Provide an opportunity to create new working collaborations, experiences and connections? Try to think of ways to demonstrate your enhanced adaptability and broader skill set, by doing things that will provide evidence to others that you are, in fact, someone who thrives in dynamic environments. 

Ineffective Communication  

Effective communication is a cornerstone of leadership. Poor communication (not communicating clearly or frequently enough, confidently, and persuasively) can hinder collaboration, lead to misunderstandings, and impede your ability to influence others. If you’re noticing that your communication skills could use some refining, work on honing them. If you don’t know where to start, try seeking feedback from trusted sources. Simply showing an openness to feedback will show initiative few others are willing to model. If you’re still not convinced, just know that improving your overall communication skills will only improve team collaboration, increase your influence, and elevate your reputation. There are no drawbacks to improving communication skills, so why not try?  

Reluctance to Take Ownership 

Shying away from taking ownership of projects or avoiding responsibility for outcomes doesn’t bode well for any employee. If you can’t handle the consequences of your own output, how can the organization rely on you to take responsibility for the output of several of your team members? Leaders are expected to take ownership of both successes and failures – and avoiding responsibility signals a lack of leadership readiness. If the idea of flying under the radar is something you prefer, yet being a leader is still something you aspire to, then I would suggest starting small. Volunteer for leadership roles on tasks, then moving onto ownership of projects. Normalize leadership development and learn from both successes and setbacks by having conversations with leadership members you admire, within or outside of your organization. With time and practice, you will increase your confidence, enhance your overall leadership skills, and grow your reputation for being a reliable leader that values accountability. 

While not all things are within your control, such as the decision to promote you or not, many other factors are within your control. However, breaking free from the habits and behaviors that are hindering your journey to a leadership position will require intentional effort and a commitment to personal growth. By taking initiative, building meaningful relationships, embracing change, improving communication, and demonstrating ownership, you can pave the way for your ascent. As you make these changes, expect to see increased opportunities, a stronger professional network, and a trajectory toward your first leadership role. Remember, the path to leadership is not a sprint but a strategic and purposeful marathon. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/026/5 Reasons Time Blocking Isn't Working for New Leaders and What They Can Do To More Effectively Manage Their Time

Time blocking is a popular time management strategy that can be highly effective when implemented correctly. It involves scheduling specific blocks of time for tasks, meetings, and other important activities to enhance productivity and focus by allowing individuals to deeply focus on a single task at a time. Not only are time blocks good for getting things done, but they also bring peace of mind knowing that you have dedicated space to focus on each of your priorities – ending the need to multitask. 

For this time management strategy to work, however, one needs to have a SUPER clear idea of what their true priorities are. Only then can a schedule be created to reflect those priorities or activities that mean the most. This is a challenge, particularly when helping new leaders transition from do-er to leader. While time blocking can be a source of frustration – in most cases, the root of the issue is a lack of clarity on what’s truly important. New leaders simply try to do too much because they can’t let go of their previous ways of doing things and struggle adapting to a new paradigm.

In this article, I go through five common challenges new leaders experience when trying out time blocking. I also provide some guidance on strategies and mindset changes leaders (or anyone, for that matter) can implement to experience more focus and better time management using time blocks.  

Overambitious Planning   

Leaders often have many responsibilities and commitments. One common pitfall is setting unrealistic expectations when time blocking. It's easy to overestimate how much can be done within each time block. It’s a thing – and it’s called the “planning falacy”, a term coined by psychologists Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky in the 70’s. To make time blocking more effective, as a new leader, you should:  

• Be realistic in estimating the time needed for tasks. A general rule of thumb is to figure out how much time you believe you will need, then add 30% to that. Then use THAT amount of time to determine the length of your time block for that task (or break it up into several).  

• Prioritize essential tasks over non-essential ones. It is amazing how quickly “busy” work can smother our days. These are typically mindless tasks we’re so used to doing, we don’t really think about the value they bring anymore. We just do them because “that’s how I’ve always done it.” Take a look at what’s taking up your time, and decide what’s necessary vs what’s no longer serving you. These tasks can also be pushed back, delegated or eliminated altogether.

• Allow buffer or transition times between blocks to account for unexpected interruptions or much needed health and mental breaks. A common complaint from folks who play around with time blocking at first is that something unexpected but urgent got in the way of following their rigid schedule. I guarantee you, something like this will happen almost daily. If you know it will happen, build time into your schedule daily for the “s&*%” that will happen. Even 10-15 minutes will give you time to re-direct, send an email to deal with the issue, or at least create a better plan to tackle it later – and will prevent your day from being derailed.  

Inflexibility  

Some leaders become too rigid in their time blocking schedules, which can be counterproductive. They may resist adapting to unexpected changes or opportunities. To address this issue, leaders should: 

• Maintain some flexibility in their schedule for spontaneous issues. (Such as, “s&% happens” time block), as frequently as “s&%” typically happens. 

• Be open to adjusting time blocks as needed. Understand that these time blocks will evolve with time as work/life happens. What’s important is that you take control of how your time is spent.  

• Understand that not every task can fit neatly into a predetermined block of time. But it will work for most tasks – if planned for, well ahead of time.  

Lack of Focus and Distractions  

Constant interruptions and distractions are common barriers to time blocking success. New leaders may find it challenging to maintain focus during their scheduled blocks. To overcome this challenge, as a new leader, you should: 

• Create a distraction-free work environment. I’ll be the first to admit that I lack the discipline to not check on my phone during focus times. Knowing this, I put my phone away during those times. As I’m writing this, my phone is in a different room - with all notifications off.

• Set boundaries and communicate your time blocks to colleagues and team members. When possible, let them know what you’re working on. They will better be able to relate and respect these boundaries without grudges. Invite them to do the same with their scheduled focus time.

• Utilize techniques like the Pomodoro method (using a timer) to maintain focus during on tasks that you find less engaging. 

• Be more strategic in your planning. Tasks that require more focus and attention to detail should be scheduled during periods of the day where you are most easily focused, while more creative or interactive work can be done during other times. Work with your natural focus rhythms – not against them. 

Inadequate Planning and Preparation  

Leaders may not spend enough time planning and organizing their time blocks, which can lead to inefficiency and wasted effort. To improve their time blocking strategy, leaders should: 

• Clearly define tasks and objectives for each time block ahead of time. This will avoid wasting precious minutes deciding what needs/should be done. Write follow-up notes so you can start up exactly where you left off last time you worked on a particular task.  

• Prepare the necessary resources and materials in advance. If others are involved, tell them exactly what information you will need and when so that you’re not wasting time chasing after things you need to do the work.  

• Develop a daily or weekly time blocking plan that aligns with their overall goals. Friday afternoons are a great time to plan for the week ahead. It also allows leaders to get ahead of the crowd and block focus time for priorities that align with their own goals, rather than get their time booked by others for things that may not necessarily be a priority. 

Neglecting Self-Care  

Leaders often prioritize work-related tasks and forget to allocate time for self-care and personal well-being. Neglecting self-care can lead to burnout and decreased productivity. To enhance time blocking, new leaders should: 

• Schedule regular breaks, meals and downtime in their calendar. 

• Prioritize their physical and mental health. 

• Recognize that self-care is essential for long-term success and focus. There is no point in going through the effort of such careful planning only to burn out a few weeks in. Make sure to respect these self-care times as you would any other work-related time block.  

Time blocking can be a powerful tool for leaders to enhance time management and focus. However, its effectiveness is highly dependent on realistic planning, flexibility, maintaining focus, thorough preparation, and the inclusion of self-care. By addressing these common issues and implementing the suggested strategies and mindset changes, leaders can harness the full potential of time blocking to become more productive, organized, and focused in their roles. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/021/Why Constantly Growing Your Network Should Be A Crucial Part of Your Routine

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, professional development has become more critical than ever. While individuals often focus on upgrading their technical skills and knowledge specific to their domain, one crucial aspect that is often overlooked is building and expanding their professional network.  

In this article, I’ll explore the often neglected aspect of professional development – the importance of constantly growing your network – even when times are good. We will look into some of the reasons why networking should be a vital part of your development plan, along with various strategies to suit different personality types to help expand your network, both within and outside your industry. 

Why is Networking so Essential for Professional Development? 

Networking opens doors to a world of opportunities that may not be readily accessible through conventional means. By establishing connections with like-minded professionals, mentors, and industry leaders, you increase your chances of discovering new prospects, projects, and career opportunities. When it comes to job placement, there is truth to the saying “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” In fact, studies have shown that 70-85% of the time, folks benefit from employment opportunities directly tied to individuals in their network. 

“I have a job...” or “I don’t have time...why should I spend precious time networking?”  

Below are some of the reasons you should make the time to network, even if you don’t see the immediate need for it. 

1. Building a sizeable network won’t happen overnight. And it’s not simply about growing your network – it's about constantly bringing value to those individuals. With time, as you get to know one another, and trust is built, a true professional network is built. The sooner you start networking, the better.  

2. Creating a diverse network exposes you to a wealth of information and experiences. Engaging with individuals from diverse backgrounds and industries helps you gain insights into various perspectives, innovative ideas, and best practices that could be beneficial within your specific context. I see this with my clients all the time: they tend to think in terms of their own environment, which can severely slow progress and growth. In actuality, when you take time to boil a problem down to its root issue, very few of them are industry specific. A lot of learning can be acquired simply by having conversations with individuals who work elsewhere. 

3. The professional world can be challenging and unpredictable. A strong network can serve as a valuable support system during tough times, providing encouragement, advice, and even potential collaborations. Even though you may anticipate being in the same industry for your entire career, as life evolves, so will your lifestyle, needs and career. Expending your reach will help you expand the quantity and quality of your leads should you need to make a pivot in the future. 

4. As you expand your network, your visibility in the professional landscape increases. This can lead to recognition for your expertise, which may open doors to speaking engagements, thought leadership opportunities, and other avenues to showcase your skills to a wider audience. As a result, your network will expand faster than you could grow it without these opportunities. 

Which Strategies Are Effective for Growing My Network? 

While some people love the idea of a good social mixer, it makes others cringe. Thankfully, there are several different networking strategies to suit the needs and preferences of all personality types. 

1. Networking Events. Actively take part in industry conferences, seminars, and workshops. These events provide fertile ground for meeting new people who share common interests and passions.  

2. Social Media. Social media platforms and professional forums allow you to connect with professionals (and potential clients) worldwide. Engage in discussions, share insights, and contribute to your industry's online community. Key word here is “contribute”. Being a passive observer will likely do nothing to improve your networking situation. Add value while demonstrating your expertise. 

3. Professional Associations. Become a member of relevant industry associations. These organizations often host networking events and offer access to specialized resources, learning opportunities and opportunities to meet and have meaningful conversations with other professionals.  

4. Mentors and Sponsors. Cultivate relationships with experienced individuals who can guide and inspire you. Mentorship not only aids in personal development but also expands your network through your mentor's connections. A sponsor is also an influential, experienced individual within your organization who can help you navigate the more specific intricacies of the organization’s dynamics. 

5. Referrals. Leverage your existing network, such as friends, leaders, co-workers, team members, clients and other stakeholders. Ask them if they know anyone you could speak with to find out more about what they do. 

6. Community Involvement. Engage in volunteer work or community initiatives related (or not) to your field. This is a wonderful way to meet like-minded individuals and/or other skilled go-getters from a wide variety of various industry knowledge. 

7. Informational Interviews/Job shadowing. Reach out to professionals in roles or industries you're interested in. Request an informational interview to learn more about their career path and gain valuable advice. Job shadowing may also give you an excellent glimpse of what “a day in the life of” could potentially look like or simply acquire success habits, if not in the market for a job. 

8. Webinars and Virtual Events. Now super-common virtual events allow you to network with professionals globally. 

Regardless of the networking strategy you chose to engage in, the following criteria are super important when it comes to getting a good ROI for the time you spend on nurturing those professional relationships.  You must ensure that when you step into these networking interactions, you are:  

1. adding value; 

2. you are genuine; 

3. you are consistent. 

It’s difficult to argue that building and nurturing a professional network shouldn’t be an optional addition to your development plan; it is a key ingredient for success. With time, the ability to connect with opportunities, knowledge, support, and a community of like-minded professionals can have immeasurable advantages. Embrace the various strategies to grow your network both within and outside your industry and unlock the full potential of your professional development.  

Which networking strategy will you try next week? 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/020/Leveraging The Slower Pace To Build A Leadership Accountability Plan

I have yet to meet a leader (or anyone for that matter) that doesn’t look forward to the temporary slower pace of summer. Though being used to a frantic pace of life, we (me included) can often find it challenging to hit the pause button. The idea of sitting back and letting our minds settle seems blissful – but in reality, it can be difficult to do. It can be even more difficult to go the extra step, to mentally “regroup” and make more intentional plans on how we want to return to the more active season.  

What I’m seeing with clients, and what I’ve experienced myself in the past, is that there are 2 “seasons” when people are particularly primed for reflection and change:  

1. When they are so completely overwhelmed and are desperately seeking a way out of their current situation; 

2. When they take a timeout, like a summer holiday, and take a bird’s eye view and reflect on the work they are taking a pause from.  

While some individuals might see this as yet another thing to think about, let me attempt to reassure you by saying this: if you’re feeling unsettled, unrested, out of control, dizzy from decision-making, or like the world is moving at a pace you can’t keep up with – sitting down to organize your thoughts and creating a plan can go a long way at easing all the negative feels that are so commonly experienced by leaders.  

Taking charge requires self-accountability. Being accountable to yourself means setting clear priorities, creating a schedule that aligns with those priorities, and respecting that schedule to drive success. In this article, we will explore strategies to help you develop a strong sense of self-accountability by creating a plan to keep yourself on track and serve as a model for those around you. 

1) Reflect and Assess  

Take advantage of the slower summer period to reflect on your performance and assess your progress towards your goals. Ask yourself key questions such as: 

• What milestones have I achieved so far? 

• Are there any areas where I could improve my accountability? 

• Have I effectively aligned my actions with my priorities lately? 

2) Define Your Real Priorities  

The first step towards self-accountability is gaining clarity on your real priorities. Ask yourself:  

• What are the key outcomes I want to/need to achieve as a leader?  

• What type of leader do I aspire to be? 

• What type of leader does my team need me to be to do their best work? 

• What do I need to thrive? 

Identify the core objectives that align with your role, team, values and organization. By focusing on a few essential priorities, filter out the noise and avoid spreading yourself too thin and to maximize your impact.  

3) Set Clear and Specific Goals  

Building on your reflections, set clear and specific goals for the upcoming months. Break down your objectives into smaller, actionable steps and define measurable milestones. Consider using the SMART goal framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to ensure your goals are well-defined and realistic. I would recommend including other stakeholders to ensure your plans are realistic yet challenging. These time-bound targets will help you stay motivated, focused and measure progress along the way.  

4) Create a Well-Structured Schedule  

Next up: building a schedule that reflects your goals and priorities. Design a well-structured and realistic routine that allows for focused work, collaboration, and personal growth.  

Imagine your schedule as the framework of a finely tuned machine. Each component represents a specific task or activity that contributes to the smooth functioning of the overall mechanism. By arranging the pieces thoughtfully, you optimize productivity and ensure a balanced work-life integration.  

5) Guard Your Schedule and Respect It  

Creating a schedule is relatively easy. Respecting it though, is a whole other beast. Guard your schedule fiercely and make a conscious effort to stick to it. Treat the commitments you make to yourself as non-negotiable or as you would respect the schedule of others. While occasional adjustments may be necessary, make sure they align with your priorities and have a genuine purpose. If you are a recovering “yes” person, this is particularly important. Remind yourself that for everything you say yes to, you will have to drop something else. If this keeps you in alignment, go for it! If it steers you away from alignment, ask yourself what it is about that task or request that is worth pulling you off-course.

Set aside dedicated time for regular progress reviews. Use these sessions to assess where you’re at, identify areas for improvement, and make any necessary adjustments as necessary. By creating a robust accountability system, you will feel better supported and more likely to stay on track during busier times. 

6) Embrace Accountability Partnerships  

Accountability can be reinforced through partnerships. Find a mentor, coach, or trusted colleague who can serve as an accountability partner. Engage in regular check-ins or meetings to discuss your goals, share progress updates, and offer support and feedback to each other. Their perspective, guidance, and encouragement can provide invaluable support and help you stay on track. Offer to do the same for them. This will do a great deal to encourage a collective growth mindset within the team.  

7) Make Self-care an essential aspect of your daily routine  

Accountability extends beyond work-related goals. Take time to recharge, relax, and engage in activities that bring you joy and rejuvenation. A balanced and healthy state of mind and body is essential for supporting long-term accountability. Research has repeatedly shown that when we are at peace, we are free to think more creatively and greatly improve our likelihood of doing our best work. 

The slower summer business time presents new leaders with a valuable opportunity to reflect, plan, and build an accountability plan for future success. By reflecting on your progress, setting clear goals, designing an accountability system, allocating time for skill development, and practicing self-care, you can use this period to establish a solid foundation of self-accountability. Embrace this time as a catalyst for personal and professional growth, and you will enter the busier seasons with renewed focus, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to achieving your goals. 

Emergent Leaders Newsletter/018/Habits that will help new leaders set boundaries to strike a healthy balance between Relationships and Strategic Priorities

I recently posted a poll on my LinkedIn feed to see what people struggle with the most when it comes boundary setting. The outcome of that poll was as follows (and matches what I’m seeing with my clients):  

• 53% Accessibility vs focus time

• 37% Communicating boundaries

• 5% Impact on work relationships

• 5% Other 

One of the major contrasts between successful, experienced leaders and new ones, is the mindset surrounding boundary-setting to focus on strategic priorities. As leaders move up the ranks or take on roles with increasing responsibility, the more strategic planning becomes part of their main responsibilities. Needless to say, if leadership is something you aspire for your career, then boundary setting will be a necessary skill to hone.  

However, as many of my clients and poll responders state, fear of how boundaries will be perceived by co-workers and direct reports can lead them to take a very “soft” approach when it comes to filtering what gets their attention and what doesn’t. As a result, they somehow never seem to find the time to address our true priorities.  

“Lack of time is actually lack of priorities.” — Timothy Ferris 

It's natural to worry about how setting boundaries will be received by your staff. However, keep in mind that communicating clear expectations and boundaries (and upholding them) is crucial for your growth as a leader. It also gives other team members permission to do the same. It creates a positive and productive work environment. Why not be a model for the team by establishing the following habits into your leadership practice?  

Let’s first establish what’s important vs what is less important... 

1. Before we dive into “how” to set boundaries, it is so important to know the “what” and your “why”. What I mean is, before setting boundaries, you need to know what you need to focus your energy and time on over the course of your week vs what can be filtered out. Begin by making a list of things that fall under your role’s key responsibilities. Most likely, things like strategic planning, quarterly planning, forecasting, ensuring projects are on time, delegation, performance management, communication, 1-to-1's, etc. I know, the list goes on. Think objectively. Your list can include important things you’re already addressing and can also include things that you know should be addressed, but never seem to get done. Don’t forget to include health and lunch breaks! 

2. If you compare this list to previous weeks’ schedules, you may notice that you have been doing things that don’t fall under your scope of responsibility. You’ve been doing things out of habit when you really should have been delegating. Delegate as necessary (see newsletters 007 “How to work through your biggest obstacle when it comes to delegating” and 008 “How to successfully delegate so that you can lead without the overwhelm”).  

3. Once you’ve made your list of items that MUST be part of your daily, weekly, monthly routine, decide how much of your time should be spent on each – then add at least 30% as we always tend to underestimate how much time things actually take to complete. Place these time blocks into next week’s and the week after. The idea is that you create a schedule that reflects your priorities, before it gets filled with other people’s priorities.  

4. DM me if you are struggling with this AND/OR if you still have too little time to fit everything in. I can help you through it.  

Now that you’re clear on your priorities and have made space for them in your schedule, the rest will be so much easier. Below are some tips to help you communicate your boundaries in a way that will still leave your team members feel supported. 

Clearly communicate your availability.

Let them know that while you value interactions and relationships, you also need focused time to work on strategic priorities. In fact, if possible, work together so that your focus times coincide so that everyone knows there will be no interruption – even for just 1 hour/day. When possible, let them know what you’re working on, and have them share what they will be working on. Take the mystery and secrecy away and watch how supportive team members become rather than suspicious.  

Demonstrate the importance of setting boundaries by respecting them yourself.  

Avoid sending emails or requesting work during non-working hours unless it's truly urgent. With the increase in companies allowing flexible work hours, some individuals may choose to work outside of the typical 9-5. As a leader, you can ask that no emails be sent outside of those hours. I have clients who like to leave work a little early to be home with their kids after school but will then compose emails later in the evening and schedule them to go out in the morning. When folks don’t expect work-related emails during personal time, it’s much easier for them to “disconnect” enjoy their down time. Show your team that you prioritize their well-being and work-life balance, setting a positive example for them to follow. If you want to be extra kind, when you send an email and expect a response back, let the individual(s) know what time frame you need that response by. Most people will drop everything if the boss asks for something, regardless if it isn’t urgent, potentially halting more important work.  

Schedule Regular 1-to-1s.  

One-to-one meetings are crucial for building strong relationships and providing guidance to your direct reports. Schedule dedicated time for these meetings, allowing your team members to have your undivided attention, with a pre-determined agenda and action-items so that the most is made of the little time you have. These sessions create an open space for discussion, feedback, mentorship and foster a supportive work environment. 

Encourage Casual Interactions.  

While focused work is important, don't neglect the value of casual interactions within your team. Encourage impromptu conversations, coffee breaks, or team-building activities. Be present – and without an agenda, other than to say hello and check in on your people. If you have team members working remotely, check in on them as you would with other team members during these casual interactions. These informal walk-throughs help build trust, camaraderie, and a positive team culture. Consider setting aside specific times or areas for socializing to strike the right balance. And if you are more of the introverted type like me, who loves connecting with individuals but doesn’t naturally think of creating space for social gatherings, collaborate with or delegate the planning of such activities to a team member who get great joy out of doing this type of work.  

Set Boundaries Collaboratively. 

Involve your team in the process of setting boundaries. Conduct a team meeting to discuss everyone's needs and preferences. What does each team member need to be successful? By involving them in the decision-making process, you show respect for their input and foster a sense of ownership. Together, you can establish guidelines that accommodate both individual and team goals. If you do get in the habit of doing this, I would suggest re-visiting it every quarter to accommodate new team members and evolving work demands. 

Leverage Technology and Tools.  

Use technology and productivity tools to streamline communication and optimize your workflow. Encourage your team to use project management tools, instant messaging apps, or shared calendars for better coordination. I find larger organizations are better at this – but small to medium-sized businesses could also benefit. This helps minimize interruptions and allows for efficient communication without sacrificing relationships.  

How to address the persistent “disruptor”. 

Every team has one. An individual who struggles to “read the room” or who has a lot of questions because they may lack the technical know-how or confidence. Create a plan with this individuals, with names and contact info of others they can lean on for support so that you are not the only go-to. These individuals may also require slightly longer one-to-ones to address their questions at first, but with time, they will learn to become more self-sufficient. You just have to facilitate the learning rather than enable the dependance.  

Post a sign on your door – or if working remotely, have an automatic response stating something like: “I am currently unavailable, but will be back online or available at X time.” Most times, you will notice that by the time you do get back to them, they will have figured things out on their own or reached out to other appropriate resources.  

Define what an “urgent” matter looks like.

Regardless of the industry, things come up that really do require immediate or almost immediate attention. Though if left to everyone’s judgement, they will all have a very different take on what “urgent” means to them. Spell it out for them. Create a check list of questions they must ask themselves before they interrupt you or reach out during off-time. Everything else can wait. Also let them know what mode of communication is most appropriate in such urgent cases. For example, making a phone call might be a better option than sending an email and expecting an immediate reply.

Setting boundaries as a new leader may feel challenging, but it's essential for your success and the overall productivity of your team. By addressing your fears head-on, communicating openly, and leading by example, you can strike the right balance between focusing on strategic priorities and nurturing workplace relationships. Remember, effective boundary setting benefits both you and your team, creating a more harmonious and productive work environment. Embrace this opportunity for growth and empower yourself to become a successful leader.