Episode 93: Loyalty Shmoyalty

Sandy and Tara talk about what employee “loyalty” means – today and in the past – and how it seems to be performing a disappearing act. So what’s next? How do employers (re?) engage that loyalty? Or, is that even a reality anymore? And if not…how do employers make themselves attractive to a workforce that no longer values an engraved gold watch?

Key Takeaways:

• In the 20th century, employee loyalty seemed to be real! Was that because of a desire for/expectation of a clear career ladder and retirement security? Or maybe because there were fewer employment options back then?

• There has been a significant shift in the balance of power and employees are making it clear they want more influence over their lives and how work fits in.

• As an employer, it’s time to let go of the assumption of loyalty from your employees…and to become comfortable with the concept that you can’t be everything to all your employees. Stop trying to tick ALL the boxes!

• We reference the book, “Workquake,” by Steve Cadigan. It’s a timely read as it examines current workplace trends and our prevailing narratives about the employee-employer relationship.

Episode 77: Time for Some Feedback on Feedback

We learn and grow when we know how we are doing, and, for most of us, our go-to method for figuring out how we are doing is to rely on the feedback of others. Still, many of us generally find giving and receiving feedback uncomfortable. How come? And, does it have something to do with the word itself??

Key Takeaways:

• There are differences between criticism and feedback, and one of the key differences is context. We need context!

• If you are asking for feedback, be specific about what you want feedback on.

• Feedback is so one-way! It feels like you just have to sit there and take it. It’s time to reframe feedback as a conversation.

Bonus Takeaway:

• While we all love sandwiches...no more sh$t sandwiches! Take the bread off and get to the point.

Episode 26: Decisions, decisions...

We make decisions every day, all day. At work, how do we make tough decisions, and not be a jerk even when it may not be a popular decision? When is it suitable to rely on consensus, majority or dictating the decision yourself? This week, we share our experiences with these challenging situations and talk about some approaches that may make them a bit less complex. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Be aware of the difference between people liking you and respecting your decision. 

• Think about the scope of the decision before you decide to invite the whole company, or several people, anyway, to participate in making a decision.

• Trust your expert teammates! If you aren’t the expert in an area that you need to make a decision, collaborate with the person who is. (Yes, we know that sort of conflicts with the previous takeaway!)

Episode 12: Motivate Me

In this episode, we explore the concept of career paths (how we move up, how we move sideways, and how we move out), the importance of coaching conversations, and the work that is required on your part if you want to make some changes in your career.

Key Takeaways:

• Finding a career is more than a path laid out for you. It requires work, thought, and effort on your part.

• Personal development is your own responsibility. Don’t be lazy about it.

• Figure out what you value and know that it will change over time.

• Motivation is internal; it drives you from your core. Someone may motivate you in the moment but you are ultimately responsible for figuring out what motivates you.

• Dream big. If you want to be a French speaking obstetrician, go out and do that! Or HR. They are pretty much the same (you’ll need to listen for this to make sense).

Episode 6: Why Didn't Someone Tell Me This BEFORE I Became a Manager?

Are you a new manager (aka the boss)? Considering applying for a manager role? In this episode, we discuss the questions you should ask yourself before deciding if this is for you and we talk about some of the challenges you may face when making the move into a boss role. Through our stories, we hope to help you figure out if this is for you and if it is, how to make the move as smooth as possible. 

Key Takeaways:

• Know that being the boss will involve “HR” work. You need to be okay with that.

• If you are moving into a boss role in the same organization, your relationships will change. They won’t be better or worse, just different.

• Be prepared to learn! Sarah references and recommends the book, “The First 90 Days,” by Michael D. Watkins. Check it out if you are a new leader.

• Feeling like you don’t “DO” anything anymore is completely normal

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Episode 2: When the Talking Gets Tough

Have you ever avoided a tough conversation at work?  Although we don’t have a magic solution or an online form that will solve your problem for you (yes, we’ve been asked for those!), there are ways to have tough conversations without coming across as a jerk. This episode is all about the importance of having those tough conversations, as hard as they may seem. We discuss tough topics for managers and employees, common reasons why people avoid having tough conversations, and how you can begin building your confidence and get better at it. In this episode, Tara refers to the program, “Fierce Conversations,” which is all about the importance of having effective conversations. Tough conversations are hard but with courage and practice, they will get easier!

This episode is for managers (new and experienced) who may be faced with a difficult workplace situation. It’s also a great listen for employees who may want to bring up a tough topic or who want to gain some insight into their manager’s perspective.