What Leaders Miss About AI in the Workplace

, , ,

AI in the workplace isn’t just about efficiency. AI is the new operating system for leadership.

Yet most leaders are still treating it like a shiny productivity hack—a way to make tasks faster, cheaper, or easier. Some even see it as a chance to cut labor costs and sideline the human element.

That mindset misses the point entirely.

The real power of AI isn’t about replacing people. It’s about amplifying them—giving leaders the tools to coach better, align faster, and build cultures that scale.

What Leaders Get Wrong About AI

1. They See It Only as a Cost-Cutter
Yes, using AI in the workplace can automate routine work, but if your only use case is cutting costs, you’re missing its real value: amplifying human performance.

2. They Forget the “People” Side
AI is powerful, but without coaching, context, and culture, it just creates noise. The winners will be the leaders who combine AI insights with human connection.

3. They Wait Too Long
AI is moving at the speed of light. If you’re waiting for a “perfect plan” before experimenting, you’re already behind.

4. They Think Tools = Strategy
Buying software isn’t a strategy. Embedding AI into how you coach, collaborate, and align teams is.

What AI Can Actually Do for Leaders

When leaders utilize AI in the workplace effectively, they stop playing defense and start building superhuman teams.

Here’s what that looks like:

  • Real-Time Coaching: AI tools like Marlee can turn conversations into growth moments.
  • Clarity at Scale: AI can surface performance insights leaders would never have time to see on their own.
  • Better Collaboration: AI-powered platforms keep hybrid teams aligned across time zones and functions.
  • Culture as a System: AI helps measure and reinforce culture daily, not once a year at an offsite.

The Bottom Line: AI + People = The Workverse Unlock

AI isn’t replacing leaders, but leaders who don’t embrace AI will be replaced.

The best leaders understand that AI isn’t just a tool. It’s the operating system for modern leadership—the system that combines people, coaching, and technology to drive trust, speed, and performance.

Get this wrong, and you’ll keep losing your people.
Get it right, and you’ll unleash a generation of superhuman teams.

Want the no-BS playbook for success? Book me to speak on The Leader’s AI Playbook, and let’s get your leaders ready to coach, compete, and win in the AI-powered workplace.

Why Gen Z Employees Quit—and How Coaching Can Keep Them Engaged

, , , ,

Let’s get one thing straight: Gen Z isn’t lazy, entitled, or uncommitted.

They’re the most coachable, tech-savvy, and purpose-driven workforce we’ve ever seen.

So why are so many leaders losing them?

Because Gen Z isn’t quitting work, they’re quitting their leadership.

And the cost is massive: turnover, disengagement, lost productivity, and churn that drains millions from organizations every year.

Here’s what’s really happening — and how coaching can keep Gen Z not only engaged, but thriving.

Why Gen Z Employees Quit

1. They Don’t See Purpose
Gen Z needs to know their work matters from day one. If leaders can’t connect daily tasks to the bigger impact, they lose interest fast.

2. They’re Starved for Feedback
Annual reviews? Hard pass. This generation grew up in a world of instant feedback. Waiting months to know how they’re doing feels like a remnant of an archaic playbook.

3. They Don’t Trust the System
Disconnected teams, outdated management styles, and cultures that talk values but don’t live them — Gen Z sees through it instantly.

4. They Don’t See Growth
If they can’t envision a clear path to develop skills, take on new challenges, and grow in their career, they’ll find a better opportunity elsewhere.

5. They Don’t Feel Safe to Speak Up
Psychological safety matters. If leaders shut down ideas or discourage candor, Gen Z will disengage — and eventually, exit.

How Coaching Keeps Gen Z Engaged

The fix isn’t more perks or empty slogans.

The fix is coaching.

When leaders act as coaches, they create trust, clarity, and growth — the exact things Gen Z is asking for.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Make Feedback Continuous
    Replace the annual review with real-time coaching conversations. Use AI to surface insights and turn them into growth moments.
  • Connect Work to Purpose
    Don’t just talk about mission — coach your people to see how their daily contributions make an impact.
  • Ask Better Questions
    “What matters most to you?”
    “How do you want to grow?”
    “What do you need from me?”
    These are the questions that turn bosses into coaches.
  • Build a Culture OS
    Architect culture as a system, not a vibe. Clarity, consistency, and collaboration need to be baked into daily workflows — not left to chance.
  • Leverage AI to Scale Coaching
    AI doesn’t replace leaders. It provides them with the data, insight, and tools needed to coach more effectively across a broader audience without burning out.

Crack the Gen Z Code

The leaders who win in the Workverse will be the ones who:
-Treat coaching as an essential operating system
-Use AI to amplify, not replace, human connection
-Build cultures that make performance and trust measurable

Do this, and you won’t just keep Gen Z engaged — you’ll unleash their full potential and build superhuman teams.

Want the no-BS playbook? Book me to speak on Cracking the Gen Z Code, and let’s get your leaders ready to coach, connect, and compete in the new workplace.

The Top 5 Mistakes Leaders Make With Gen Z—And How to Fix Them

, , , ,

Gen Z is the most coachable, tech-savvy, purpose-driven workforce we’ve ever seen.
But most organizations are blowing it.

Why? Because they’re still leading with outdated playbooks designed for Boomers and Gen X.

The result?
👉 Disengagement
👉 Ghosting
👉 Quiet quitting
👉 Turnover that’s costing you millions

Here are the top 5 mistakes leaders make with Gen Z — and, more importantly, how to fix them.

1. Managing Instead of Coaching

Gen Z doesn’t want a boss. They want a coach.

The Fix: Train managers to lead with coaching behaviors: ask questions, give real-time feedback, and develop people instead of just directing them. A Coaching OS, powered by AI tools like Marlee or Gong, makes this scalable across teams.

2. Annual Reviews (a.k.a. Dead Weight)

Gen Z lives in a world of instant feedback. Waiting 12 months to hear how they’re doing? That feels like neglect.

The Fix: Replace annual reviews with continuous feedback loops. Use AI platforms to capture performance data in real time and feed it back as actionable insights.

3. Ignoring Purpose

    Gen Z isn’t just chasing a paycheck. They want to know their work matters and see those results play out in real time.

    The Fix: Connect daily tasks to the bigger mission. Leaders who coach Gen Z to see their impact create engagement and loyalty. No purpose = no retention.

    4. Underestimating Tech Fluency

    Leaders often assume Gen Z needs “hand-holding” with new tools. Wrong. They grew up digital. The problem isn’t their ability — it’s your systems.

    The Fix: Involve them in shaping how your organization uses AI, collaboration platforms, and new tech. Give them a voice, and they’ll help you innovate faster.

    5. Treating Culture Like a Perk

    Foosball tables and free lunches don’t build culture. Systems do.

    The Fix: Architect a Culture OS that prioritizes clarity, consistency, and collaboration. Embed values into workflows, not posters. When culture works as a system, performance follows.

    Gen Z Isn’t the Problem — They’re the Unlock

    The leaders who win in the Workverse will be the ones who:
    ✅ Coach, don’t manage
    ✅ Deliver real-time feedback
    ✅ Connect work to purpose
    ✅ Leverage Gen Z’s tech fluency
    ✅ Treat culture as a system

    Do this, and you don’t just keep Gen Z engaged — you build the next generation of superhuman teams.

    📆 Want the no-BS playbook? Book me to speak on Cracking the Gen Z Code, and let’s get your leaders ready to coach, connect, and compete in the AI-powered workplace.

    Cultivating a Positive Attitude at Work: Why It Matters More Than Ever for Gen Z

    , , , ,

    In today’s fast-paced workplace, being the fastest learner or the smartest in the room is often not enough. As Amazon CEO Andy Jassy points out, a positive attitude at work truly sets individuals apart. This advice goes beyond just being cheerful, however. It involves working well with teams, respecting deadlines, and maintaining a “can-do” mindset. But how does this advice resonate with Gen Z—especially as they face a work environment different from previous generations?

    A Positive Attitude: The Underestimated Skill for Success

    Jassy’s perspective highlights that success often stems from a mindset that fosters teamwork, reliability, and the ability to embrace new challenges. For Gen Z, however, this may feel like new territory. Groundbreaking research into Generation Z from an Australian company, Marlee, suggests that Gen Z employees naturally seek feedback and external insights, which can help them grow quickly when paired with the right attitude. However, they tend to value consistency and a sense of belonging rather than pursuing relentless goals like their Gen X or Baby Boomer managers. These priorities mean that Gen Z must find balance in being open to growth while building stability in their roles.

    Navigating Feedback and Fostering Belonging

    Jassy’s advice centers on essential qualities like teamwork, meeting commitments, and embracing challenges. This can be a strength for Gen Z, known for their affinity for feedback and continuous learning. Marlee’s insights suggest Gen Z’s inclination toward real-time feedback is a superpower that helps them adjust and improve. Yet, if overdone, a focus on external validation can sometimes clash with the expectation of self-driven attitude and resilience that Jassy advocates. To make the most of their positive attitude, Gen Zers can lean on feedback while learning to anchor their motivation from within, creating resilience alongside their natural enthusiasm for feedback.

    Embracing Big-Picture Thinking While Staying Grounded

    Jassy’s experience illustrates the power of seizing unexpected opportunities—something he did as a young professional at Amazon. For Gen Z, embracing big-picture thinking can be challenging, especially with their tendency to analyze details meticulously before acting. By adopting Jassy’s mindset of stepping into challenges with a positive attitude, even when uncertainties exist, Gen Z professionals can develop their confidence in tackling the unknown—a critical skill as they rise into leadership roles.

    Building Stronger Workplace Relationships

    Jassy emphasizes that a positive attitude fosters valuable workplace relationships. For Gen Z, belonging and mentorship are essential. They’re motivated by connection rather than authority and respond best to leaders who prioritize support and inclusivity. To leverage Jassy’s advice, Gen Z professionals should seek mentors who embody the qualities they admire, not just those in higher positions. This approach creates a more genuine connection, enhancing workplace satisfaction and enabling Gen Z to cultivate essential leadership skills organically.

    Creating a Culture of Stability and Growth

    Gen Z values stability, especially in a workplace filled with constant change. Marlee’s research suggests that a stable environment is crucial for Gen Z to feel safe and open to different perspectives. Jassy’s emphasis on attitude aligns with this, as a positive outlook can help young professionals adapt to change without feeling overwhelmed. Companies that support Gen Z through routines, mentorship, and steady feedback create a foundation for these employees to take risks confidently, ultimately contributing to a positive workplace atmosphere.

    Looking Forward: How Gen Z Can Rise to the Challenge

    As Gen Z grows into future leaders, a positive attitude will be a cornerstone of their success. By taking Jassy’s advice to heart, they can balance their strengths in feedback and big-picture thinking with a resilient mindset that embraces challenges. Gen Z’s approach to work can thrive when coupled with Jassy’s timeless advice, leading to a generation that builds inclusive, innovative, and adaptable workplaces for the future. Want to unlock even more insights into the Gen Z members of your team or company? Click here to try Marlee! Powered by AI and decades of research into human behavior, Marlee is changing how generations connect in the workplace and combine their superpowers for organizational success.

    6 Steps to Optimize Gen Z’s Workplace Performance: A Leader’s Guide

    , , ,

    As leaders increasingly manage teams with members from multiple generations, understanding what each generation uniquely brings to the table is more critical than ever. Australian company, Marlee, recently released the results of a 23-year-long study into generational differences, with particular emphasis on the attitudes and behaviors of Gen Z. This research offers invaluable insights for leaders seeking to optimize Gen Z’s workplace performance.

    To set Gen Z up for success, leaders can integrate strategies that align the workplace’s evolving demands with Gen Z’s preference for stability. This means recognizing and valuing their unique perspectives on change while encouraging flexibility and resilience. Below, we explore specific methods leaders can use to cultivate a supportive workplace for Gen Z while still balancing the needs of the older generations.

    Embrace Structure to Foster Confidence—Step One

    Unlike older generations, who often thrive in environments that promote rapid change and innovation, Gen Z feels more at ease in structured, predictable settings. They’re less motivated by the promise of transformation and more by the stability that allows them to perform consistently and confidently. Marlee’s study revealed that 32% of Gen Z workers prefer maintaining the familiar rather than chasing change. Leaders can foster productivity by creating a reliable framework for Gen Z employees, offering them a sense of certainty and continuity even during organizational shifts.

    Leadership Tip: Clearly communicate what will remain unchanged in the face of new developments. When introducing changes, emphasize what will stay consistent to help Gen Z employees feel grounded and supported.

    Support Gradual Skill-Building Over Constant Reinvention—Step Two

    While Millennials and Gen X employees often enjoy the challenge of acquiring new skills, Gen Z can feel overwhelmed by a continuous push for skill diversification. They’re not resistant to learning but benefit more from steady, achievable goals that gradually build confidence. Leaders can support this by guiding Gen Z toward structured skill development through online tutorials, peer mentoring, or in-person workshops.

    Leadership Tip: Encourage Gen Z to approach skill-building in a self-paced manner. For instance, recommend specific YouTube tutorials or invite them to attend workshops with diverse teams where they can absorb new skills in a supportive environment. This gradual approach ensures they’re building skills without feeling rushed.

    Communicate Change as a Necessity, Not Just an Exciting Vision—Step Three

    Gen Z tends to approach change when it feels unavoidable rather than aspirational. They’re motivated by problem-solving and may not respond to visionary goals in the same way as other generations. If a change is framed as essential to solving a pressing issue, they are more likely to buy in and engage fully.

    Leadership Tip: When implementing changes, leaders should emphasize the practical reasons behind the shift, highlighting how it resolves specific pain points or eliminates inefficiencies. Leaders can encourage Gen Z to feel like active problem-solvers rather than passive adapters by linking change to concrete outcomes.

    Introduce Mentorships for Confidence in Change Management—Step Four

    Gen Z employees often feel uncertain about approaching big-picture thinking, especially when change is involved. Having a mentor from an older generation, like a Gen X or Millennial, who is comfortable with change can provide the reassurance they need to navigate evolving workplace dynamics. A mentor can help Gen Zers break down complex changes into manageable steps, helping them confidently approach unfamiliar challenges.

    Leadership Tip: Pair Gen Z employees with mentors who can model resilience and adaptability in the face of change. This relationship offers Gen Z employees a safe space to ask questions and learn from those who view change as an opportunity rather than a disruption. The shared guidance can help Gen Z build comfort with ambiguity over time.

    Cultivate Resilience Through Scenario Planning—Step Five

    Leaders can create a culture of brainstorming and scenario planning to help Gen Z build resilience. By engaging in discussions with teammates from older generations, Gen Zers can explore potential outcomes of new projects or workplace changes. This exercise helps reduce anxiety around uncertainty by allowing them to anticipate and visualize different scenarios before they arise.

    Leadership Tip: Encourage Gen Z employees to collaborate on future plans with Baby Boomer and Gen X teammates. Their natural caution can be balanced by the excitement and optimism of their older counterparts, helping them gain a well-rounded perspective on upcoming changes.

    Build a Culture of Stability and Incremental Innovation—Step Six

    While Gen Z may not seek out innovation for its own sake, they value incremental improvements that don’t disrupt their workflow. Leaders can create a culture where change is introduced gradually, building stability while fostering a growth mindset. This approach lets Gen Zers appreciate the benefits of innovation without feeling overwhelmed.

    Leadership Tip: Implement small, consistent improvements rather than sweeping overhauls. Allow Gen Z employees to adjust to these changes one step at a time, helping them integrate new processes or tools without disrupting their sense of stability.

    With each generation carrying distinct strengths and expectations, leaders play a crucial role in bridging these perspectives. By balancing the need for stability with opportunities for incremental growth, leaders can cultivate an environment where Gen Z feels supported and empowered to take on future leadership roles. This approach optimizes performance across the team, harnessing each generation’s unique outlook to build a cohesive, resilient, and high-performing workplace.

    Want to dive deeper into the results of Marlee’s ground-breaking study? Click here to download your copy of the report for FREE today!

    Navigating the New Frontier: Gen Z’s College Dilemma

    , ,

    Gen Z, a generation raised on tech, devices, social media, and a rapidly evolving job market, is at a crossroads. The traditional college pathway—once considered a near-necessity for success—is being scrutinized like never before. On one side, there’s a growing wave of disillusionment with accumulating debt for a degree that might not guarantee employment. Conversely, innovative colleges are reimagining education to offer real-world skills and unparalleled value. The question is: Is it time for Gen Z to ditch college altogether, or can they find a new breed of institution that prepares them for a future defined by rapid change and opportunity?

    The Ditch College Movement: Reevaluating Traditional Paths

    In recent years, a notable trend has emerged among Gen Z—many are questioning the return on investment for a college degree. With skyrocketing tuition fees and a competitive job market, the idea of entering the workforce without the burden of student debt is incredibly appealing.

    Several factors contribute to this shift:

    1. Exploding Tuition Costs: With student debt in the U.S. topping $1.7 trillion, many young people are reevaluating whether a degree is worth the financial strain.
    2. Alternative Learning Platforms: The rise of online courses, boot camps, and vocational training offers high-demand skills without the hefty price tag of a four-year college.
    3. Real-World Experience: Internships, apprenticeships, and entrepreneurial ventures provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities that some argue are more valuable than classroom learning.

    The allure of bypassing traditional education is strong. As startups, freelancing, and gig economy jobs proliferate, the pressure to conform to old standards diminishes. For some, the traditional degree seems like a relic of the past, unable to keep pace with modern career demands.

    The New Wave of Colleges: Reinventing the Educational Experience

    Yet, amidst this growing skepticism, a new wave of colleges is emerging—one that blend traditional learning with innovative, practical approaches designed to meet the needs of today’s students and the future of work. These institutions are not just surviving; they are thriving by redefining what it means to offer value.

    Key features of these forward-thinking colleges include:

    1. Curriculum Integration: Schools like Northeastern University incorporate real-world projects, global experiences, and internships into their core curriculum, ensuring students gain practical skills alongside academic knowledge.
    2. Industry Partnerships: Colleges like Purdue University are partnering with companies to create programs that align closely with industry needs, offering students a direct path to employment.
    3. Skill-Based Learning: Institutions like General Assembly and Holberton School focus on high-demand coding and digital marketing skills, equipping students with immediately applicable expertise.

    The Critical Need for Soft Skills and Building a Holistic Educational Experience

    Beyond technical skills and job-specific training, there is an emerging recognition of the importance of soft skills and that Gen Z has not learned them. For Gen Z, the first generation of mobile smartphone users, relationship skills tend to be lacking. Navigating a world of rapid change and complex interpersonal dynamics is challenging enough without a strong command of these critical skills. For Gen Z, their lack of soft skills tends to be their employer’s biggest complaint.

    What are these soft skills, and how do you cultivate them both as an individual and as an employer when bringing on new hires?

    Soft Skills for Success:

    1. Communication: Effective communication remains a cornerstone of professional and personal success. Courses and programs focusing on public speaking, writing, and interpersonal communication are essential for articulating ideas, leading teams, and building relationships.
    2. Emotional Intelligence: Understanding and managing one’s own emotions, as well as empathizing with others, is vital in the workplace. Training in emotional intelligence can improve leadership, teamwork, and conflict resolution.
    3. Relationship Building: Networking and forming meaningful connections can open doors and create opportunities that technical skills alone may not. Programs emphasizing relationship-building, mentorship, and networking are critical for long-term success.
    4. Entrepreneurial Skills: The ability to think creatively, take initiative, and innovate is invaluable. Education that fosters entrepreneurial thinking can help empower students to start their own ventures, drive change, and adapt to evolving market needs.

    These soft skills not only complement technical expertise but are often the differentiators in career advancement and personal fulfillment. Programs and institutions that integrate these skills into their curriculum are helping students prepare for success in the workplace.

    Finding the Balance: Making the Right Choice

    For Gen Z, the decision to embrace or bypass college isn’t black and white. It requires a nuanced evaluation of personal goals, career aspirations, and financial realities. Here are some considerations to help you make an intentional and informed choice:

    1. Evaluate ROI: Research the return on investment for your specific educational path, considering not just tuition costs but real skills you will learn and how they will leverage potential earnings and job prospects.
    2. Explore Alternatives: Consider nontraditional education options such as trade schools, online courses, and certification programs to see if they better align with your career goals.
    3. Consider Hybrid Models: Institutions offering a blend of traditional and practical learning might provide the best of both worlds, offering academic depth while preparing students for real-world challenges.
    4. Emphasize Soft Skills: Seek programs that teach technical skills and also foster essential soft skills like communication, emotional intelligence, and entrepreneurial thinking.

    A New Era of Education

    The landscape of higher education is undergoing a profound transformation. Gen Z stands at the forefront of this change, empowered to choose paths that best align with their aspirations and the realities of the modern world. While some may opt to bypass traditional college altogether, others may find immense value in innovative institutions that offer a blend of academic rigor, practical experience, and soft skills training.

    Ultimately, the key is to stay informed and flexible, leveraging new opportunities and making decisions based on what will truly set the stage for a successful and fulfilling future. The choice may not be between college or no college, but rather how to craft an educational experience that equips students with the skills and experiences needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

    5 Top Leadership Tips for Next Gen Leaders

    , , , , , ,

    Leaders always want to up their game. They want to become high performance work athletes!  Whether they’re new to their leadership position, switching teams or companies, or just want to level up and be their best, real leaders know they have to put in the work to see the results. Use these 5 simple and proven leadership tips to up your game and create the impact you want to have at work this year. 

    Leadership Tip #1: Use Your #1 Communication Tool

    What is the #1 communication tool in any leader’s toolkit? Simple – your ears!

    Great communicators are great listeners. They listen in order to understand, to make the other person feel heard, and to inquire about solutions with great questions. If you find yourself talking more than you listen, start there. Houston, there is a problem. Challenge yourself to recognize when you are overtalking and really listen to the people around you, your team, your bosses, your customers, family, etc. Then, stop, breathe, and shift to ask one great question that deepens your understanding and insight of your audience. Guaranteed you will be surprised how the simple act of listening changes results for you.

    Leadership Tip #2: Let Go of Making it All About You and Needing to Always Be Right

    Many leaders are leaders for a reason. They like to be in charge and to take control of situations and solutions. So, one of our most effective leadership tips to simply let go of that need to always be right and replace it with the desire to serve others. Accept and expect that your answer or your idea isn’t always the best one. You need to include diversity of thought. If you create space for others to step up and make their own ideas heard you will win every time. People want to feel that what they do matters, that they are contributing and creating impact. Part of your job as a leader is to simply back off and allow it to happen in the way that makes the most sense at the time.

    Leadership Tip #3: Figure Out What People Want

    The Platinum Rule has replaced the Golden Rule and it reminds us to treat people how they want to be treated, not how we want to be treated. Start by figuring out what it is your people want! As their boss or manager, figure out what motivates them and their passions, skills, and values. The simplest way to figure that out is to ask them: turn your organization upside down. Having your audiences’ desires firmly in mind will allow you to frame your conversations and interactions accordingly. If you know one team member wants to be a manager, this allows you to tailor your communications and coaching to move them toward that goal. Likewise, if you know someone desires to be home with their family as much as possible, you know you can appeal to them by offering greater flexibility with the time and place of work.

    Leadership Tip #4: Improve Your Communication Skills

    To step up as a leader who creates real-deal impact, focus on improving your communication skills this year. Learn the art of the question, make a habit of using inquiry to go deeper, listen twice as much as you speak, and use our GPS communication strategy for tough conversations. If you need help and guidance to get you where you want to go, reach out to us about our personalized and on-demand coaching. We ask our client to ask themselves what is in it for the them (WIFThem): the audience.  And then to continue to use inquiry as a tool to solve and bridge any gap. 

    Leadership Tip #5: Adopt Simple Systems

    On a recent podcast I was asked about my best leadership tip and it is this:

    KISS. Keep It Simple Stupid.

    The principles of leadership are easy. What’s not easy is the execution. Adopt simple systems to support growth and sustain permanent change. Our launchbox coaching systems focus on actionable and easy to implement 3 – 4 step processes each time. We provide a practical approach not a theoretical one. Our systems meet our clients where they, and their workplace culture, are. It’s been finetuned and tested thousands of times.

    Don’t overthink the problem. Tap into something that is proven to work so you can start making big leaps in your career.

    Taking the next step in your leadership journey starts with you. Implement our best leadership tips to drive your success and reach out to us to learn more about our leadership coaching for driven and motivated individuals.

    5 Performance Review Tips for Managers

    , , , ,

    Now that we’re back to work for 2021, it’s performance review season! Whether formal or informal performance reviews or day-to-day coaching, it’s important you really understand how to discuss performance in a manner that serves the employee. Specifically, performance discussions must connect with and make a difference for your employee. Your people want to do a good job for you, and they want these 3 simple things:

    1. To feel safe on the employment journey
    2. To feel like they belong to a team
    3. To have the ability to learn and grow.

    So, show them how! Use these 5 tips to make sure you’re having great performance reviews and discussions which encourage your employees’ growth and fulfillment in the workplace.

    Make It Relevant

    Performance reviews must be relevant and directly correlated to the employee’s experience and their growth journey. You should be discussing things you’ve covered with your employee all year long and, although you can and should talk about new places for improvement, make sure that’s not all you’re talking about. Remember it’s about their growth and their journey.  Help them gauge whether they’ve been aware and conscious of the feedback as the first step.  Have they corrected or improved their behavior and results since you last discussed? Remember: your people want to learn and grow so make sure they understand that you have their back and show them the way!

    Make Them Feel Safe

    Few people, unfortunately, enjoy and look forward to having performance reviews or discussions. That’s why it’s important your employee feels safe from the very beginning. The safer they feel the more they will receive the information and start to understand that these discussions are gifts along the journey.  As I mentioned above, your people do want to learn and grow. So, remind them that’s all a performance review/discussion is – an opportunity to discuss areas of improvement so they can be their best. Even if you’re giving a positive performance review for someone who’s exceeding expectations, there’s always opportunity to learn, grow, have an aha moment and do better. Make sure your employee understands the performance review is about them and not about you – you’re sitting down to mentor, coach and show them the ways where they can level up, create impact, and make a bigger difference.

    Remind Them That You’ve Got Their Back

    In order to make your employees feel safe during their performance review, show them you’ve got their back. Be vulnerable. Share your experiences and for God’s sake, demonstrate gratitude for their service. Everyone needs that type of empathy. In this new world of work, people want to work for bosses and managers who are authentic, transparent, and who demonstrate over and over again that they want to see their team succeed. That is what we call other focused leaders. A little reassurance goes a long way, especially for your Millennial and Gen Z employees. Focus on creating trust within the conversation. For a roadmap on what NOT to do, click here to check out a list of common behaviors that actually create feelings of mistrust.

    Ask Deep Questions to Spur Thought & Accountability

    Nobody likes to be talked at or even worse, talked down to. To ensure you’re being heard and understood, make sure to ask “great” questions. And not just any questions. Good, deep questions that are open-ended, nonjudgmental, supportive, and ask them to grow and become accountable, are what constitutes a “great” question. Understanding the art of the question is one of the most important tools a next gen leader can have in their toolbox. Practice it now during this round of performance reviews and daily thereafter. There is no more important skill a real leader can learn.

    Use Our GPS Communication System

    Systems really work. They are the best tools one could ever use. GPS is our favorite communication tool here at launchbox because it friggin’ works. GPS stands for Gratitude, Permission, and Shared Experience. Using GPS allows you to deepen your relationships with anyone through effective communication. With our teams working remotely during COVID-19, it’s more important than ever that we get this right. Click here to check out more about our GPS communication strategy and download your free worksheet to put it into practice today.

    Liked this post? Want more actionable ideas, tips, and tools? Reach out to us and ask about our virtual keynotes, remote workshops, and personalized one-on-one coaching. We can help every member of your team start creating success now. Get in touch!

    The 5 Tools You Need for Great Communication and Feedback in the Remote Workplace

    , , , , , ,

    We get inquiries all the time from people who are seeking strategies and tools to deliver effective communication and feedback in the workplace. Why? Because we all generally (technical term here) suck at communication and relationships and they really, really matter. Now more than ever in this new era of remote and disconnected work, we must hear each other clearly. With 60-93% of all communication happening nonverbally (depending on which study you’re referencing), there’s not a lot of room for mistakes. We must be able to effectively communicate with others, no matter what the medium, if we want to be successful in the rapidly evolving future world of work.

    Below, we’ve compiled 5 of our best tools for the most effective communication and feedback in the “new” workplace:

    Listen More Than You Speak

    One of the most important tools for effective communication and feedback in the workplace is to practice the art of actually listening to the person you’re speaking to. Too many times we ask questions without bothering to listen to the answer. Your ears are the #1 most important communication tool you have! Yet, we’re often too busy thinking about what we’re going to say next or worrying about something else entirely to really listen to the person who’s speaking. So, make the commitment to listen more than you speak – it will shift your focus from “self” to “others” which is a critical component of relationship building.

    Give Feedback 365

    The old way of annual performance reviews is dead and has been dead for a long time. The workplace changes too rapidly, especially in this era of forced remote work, for annual reviews to be of practical use to us. Instead, give real-deal feedback in the moment when it’s needed. When you give continuous feedback to employees, peers, clients, and even your bosses, you allow for iterative micro-adjustments. We’re not always going to get everything right or have the correct response for every situation. Feedback allows for those tiny shifts that can add up to massive change to actually happen.

    Ask Great Questions

    You’ve heard me say this over and over again. Learn how to ask great questions. It is one of the most effective communication tools in your toolbox. Great questions are open-ended, nonjudgmental, supportive, and help you go deeper to mine for the crystals below the surface. The power of the question can move a room, create trust in an instant, create empathy and connection immediately. Questions are a lifeline in communication, and don’t forget to listen to the answer for the follow up of a whopper question. If you’re not sure how to ask great questions, pick up a copy of Chasing Relevance or reach out to us for help.

    Communicate Better

    If you’re reading this post, you’re probably looking for ways to up your communication game and learn how to better connect with others. One of the most effective ways to do that is to change the way you communicate. Adopt our GPS Communication Strategy and watch how your conversations and relationships change. GPS stands for Gratitude, Permission, and Shared Experience. It’s a framework you can apply to every conversation, but especially the tough ones. Click here to check it out. Let’s practice anytime you need it.

    Recognize What is Needed from Your People and Celebrate Success

    Finally, we must make a habit of recognizing the good and bad and speaking of them and celebrating all the wins from big to small. Beyond fostering stronger relationships with our team members, recognizing the status, fatigue or challenges and speaking of them creates trust and empathy. People feel heard and part of the tribe. Of course, recognizing the successes throughout and the wins also allows you to give positive feedback in the moment (remember Feedback 365) and reinforces the behaviors you want to continue. Plus, everyone likes to feel like they’re understood and doing a good job, that they’re making a difference, and that what they do has meaning.

    When it comes to effective communication and feedback in the workplace, it isn’t something you perfect overnight or that you ever even master. Instead, it’s something that needs constant attention and cultivation if you want to reap the benefits. However, with the right tools, tips, and strategies at your disposal, you can up your game quickly and create success. If you liked the concepts we shared in this article, reach out to learn how we can support you with personalized, on-demand coaching, workshops, and training for yourself and your team. Make sure to ask us about our new coaching product, Hooga!

    How to Attract and Retain Talented Tech Employees

    , , , , , ,

    (Today we’re sharing a guest post from our friends over at Career Karma. Attracting and retaining talented employees is the name of the game for any business, but especially in the rapidly-changing technology sector. To help you compete and stay ahead of the competition, here are three ideas you can implement to help you hold onto your most talented employees.)

    The American workforce is going through a period of disruption, the likes of which have never been seen before. Advancing technology was always going to merge with the workforce, that much was clear. However, the recent Covid-19 pandemic accelerated this change via the widespread integration of remote work at companies. Rather than first getting their feet wet with technology, many companies were forced to take the plunge.

    Not surprisingly, traditional jobs have begun to decline more than they already were, as more and more companies see the importance of tech jobs. Online business is the way of the future, and securing tech employees who can propel your company above the competition should be the number one priority of any human resources division. The question, however, revolves around where to find this talent and how to attract them to your company. Fortunately, both aspects of that question have prominent solutions.

    Source From Different Educational Backgrounds

    Far too often, companies focus solely on going to universities and colleges around the country in an attempt to hire recent graduates who have no experience. However, one of the best ways to attract top tech talent is to show that you are willing to source employees from different educational backgrounds.

    An alternative to the traditional four-year path, that has been rising in popularity, is attending an intensive trade school that prepares students for specific fields. In fact, CNBC discussed how the premium that comes with a college degree is declining while trade school attendees are able to become skilled workers and already have some industry experience.

    Popular options such as General Assemblyoffer multiple courses in pressing tech fields such as web development and engineering immersion. An added benefit of attracting potential employees from trade schools is that they graduate far quicker than their college counterparts. When it comes to finding talented tech employees, the specialized training received from trade schools makes this a great option.

    Offer Jobs With a Wider Variability of Tasks

    In the past, employees with traditional jobs typically had one daily task that they excelled in. Tech students and employees are different than these traditional workers, though, and provide more freedom and variability in their work. Harvard Business Review discusses how employees of today want to feel as if they are performing meaningful work.

    To that end, offering numerous tech jobs at your company can attract new types of tech talent. One such dynamic tech field is data science which is growing at an exponential rate. The day-to-day tasks of a job such as this change daily and can provide a great source of dynamic work to any talented employee.

    As a company, numerous tech jobs need to be offered to employees to keep them interested in applying to your company. The best way to stay up to date on this is by modernizing your company and ensuring you are adapting to the times as they change.

    Competitive Benefits

    When it comes to actually retaining your employees, it is incredibly important to offer competitive benefits. Keep in mind that the different generations of your employees will require different things to retain them. Millennials typically prefer benefits that are structured to give them more freedom and paid time off.

    Consistently offer feedback options amongst your employees and ensure that none of the criticisms that arise line up with some of the common reasons for leaving a job. This can help you to keep your company as an attractive place to work for tech talent. The most important key to retaining talented tech employees is to understand what they desire and to be knowledgeable about their specific demographics.

    In the end, one of the best benefits of a job is undoubtedly the salary. It is also important to make sure that you are offering comparative salaries to your employees and not giving them less than they are owed.

    When it comes to attracting and retaining talented tech employees, it’s important to think outside the box. The workforce is changing and so are the employees who make it up. Benefits and perks that attracted workers from past years are no longer relevant. Millennials and Gen Z are the future of the workforce and benefits that appeal to them do not appeal to older employees. Understanding the demographic of your company and where you are hiring your employees is important to take the steps needed to retain your talented workforce.