As a caring leader, you know that it’s vital for you to pierce the superficial layers and engage with reality, even when it feels uncomfortable. Surface-level observations often hide deeper issues, preventing you from addressing the real challenges. We usually find that by confronting uncomfortable truths and tackling problems directly, you’ll uncover the root causes, make more informed decisions, and implement effective solutions. This approach not only builds trust and transparency within your team but also drives innovation and resilience. Facing reality, despite its discomfort, helps you foster a more authentic and adaptable organizational culture.
KeyAnna Schmiedl, Chief Human Experience Officer at Workhuman, has some interesting insights on this topic.
KeyAnna has held prominent roles, including VP of Social and Environmental Impact at Mozilla and global head of Culture & Inclusion at Wayfair, and worked with organizations like Harvard University and Santander Bank. She was honored with the Diversity Leader Award by Diversity Journal® and named a DEI Trailblazer by Business Insider. Her expertise lies in fostering inclusive workplace cultures, connecting key stakeholders, and guiding leaders in meaningful DEI conversations. KeyAnna holds advanced degrees in Organizational Learning & Development, Human Resource Management, and Human Services. She lives in the Greater Boston area with her family and pets.
In this episode, KeyAnna teaches us:
- Effective leadership involves questioning the status quo and seeking deeper understanding through curiosity, which helps create more inclusive and thoughtful decisions.
- Embracing the complexity of individual identities and moving beyond superficial labels fosters stronger connections and a more inclusive culture.
- True kindness involves honesty and addressing issues directly, even if it means having difficult conversations. Being merely nice can sometimes mean avoiding necessary feedback, which doesn’t help anyone in the long run.
- Effective leadership isn’t about fitting into a mold or having all the answers. It’s about showing up authentically, supporting your team, and being open to evolving your approach based on real interactions and feedback.
Tune in and gain some new ideas that will help you on your caring leadership journey.
Become a Certified Art of Active Listening Facilitator
- Are you overwhelmed with possibilities but don’t know where to start?
- Do you struggle internally to get everyone on the same page?
- Think you don’t have time to create lasting change?
Are you ready to become a high-value leader who champions change in your organization through effective and caring leadership?
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About Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP
Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP is a highly sought-after speaker, 2x-TEDx speaker, diversity, equity and inclusion strategist, and contributor to leading news outlets. She is also the Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a leading employee engagement and consulting firm. After over 25,000 employee engagement surveys and years of working with organizations to transform employee engagement, here’s what Heather has seen over and over: When you know how to listen, employees will tell you exactly what they need to bring their full selves to work. Book Heather to speak at your event or organization.
Visit heatheryounger.com or https://www.cmispeakers.com/heather-r-younger for more details.
