Navigating Project Risks: A Guide to Keeping It All Together

/ Jana

Picture this: you’re managing a project, and everything seems to be going smoothly. But then, out of nowhere, a major hiccup derails your carefully laid plans. If you’ve been in the world of project management, you know that risks are an integral part of the process. The key is not to eliminate risks but to identify, assess, and mitigate them effectively. Let’s explore some practical tips for managing project risks and ensuring your project stays on track.

1. Begin with a Risk Assessment

Start your project on the right foot by conducting a comprehensive risk assessment. This involves brainstorming with your team to identify potential risks. These could be anything from resource shortages to technical challenges or even external factors like market fluctuations. The goal is to create a list of all possible risks that could affect your project.

2. Prioritize Risks

Not all risks are created equal. Some have a higher probability of occurring and could have a more significant impact on your project. Prioritize your risks by considering their likelihood and potential consequences. Focus on the most critical risks to ensure your mitigation efforts are well-directed.

3. Develop a Risk Register

A risk register is your go-to document for tracking and managing risks throughout the project. It should include a description of the risk, its potential impact, its likelihood, and a plan for mitigation. Keep this register up-to-date and share it with your team so that everyone is aware of the potential pitfalls.

4. Plan for Risk Mitigation

Mitigating risks is where the magic happens. Develop a detailed plan for each identified risk. Consider what actions can be taken to reduce the likelihood of the risk occurring or lessen its impact if it does. Assign responsibilities for each mitigation strategy, so there’s no confusion about who’s accountable for managing specific risks.

5. Continuously Monitor Risks

Risk management is not a one-and-done activity. You must keep a vigilant eye on your risks throughout the project’s lifecycle. As the project progresses, new risks may emerge, and the impact or likelihood of existing risks may change. Regularly update your risk register and make adjustments to your mitigation plans as needed.

6. Encourage Open Communication

A culture of open communication can be a lifesaver when it comes to risk management. Encourage your team members to report potential risks or issues as soon as they arise. Timely identification allows for quicker responses and more effective risk mitigation.

7. Be Prepared with Contingency Plans

In some cases, despite your best efforts, risks may materialize. This is where contingency plans come into play. Develop backup plans that outline what steps to take if a risk becomes a reality. Being prepared will help you respond swiftly and minimize the impact on your project.

8. Learn from Past Projects

Your previous projects are a treasure trove of insights. Take the time to analyze what risks occurred and how they were managed in the past. Use this knowledge to improve your risk management strategies for future projects.

9. Seek Expert Input

Don’t hesitate to seek input from experts or experienced colleagues. They may have dealt with similar risks in the past and can offer valuable insights and advice on how to manage them effectively.

10. Embrace Adaptability

Finally, understand that not all risks can be predicted or prevented. In the world of project management, adaptability is a superpower. Be ready to pivot, adjust your plans, and keep your project on track, even in the face of unexpected risks.

Managing project risks is a critical skill for any project manager. It’s about being proactive, adaptable, and having a plan in place for whatever curveballs come your way. By identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks effectively, you can increase the chances of your project’s success and keep it on the path to completion, no matter what challenges arise.

Corporate CPR Episode 97: Whether You’re Telling The Right Story About Your Brand

/ Jana

On today’s episode we are talking about whether you’re telling the right story about your brand.

Kitty Hart boasts 25 years in branding and marketing. As VP of Client Brand Experience at Heroic Productions, she leads a team of professionals in designing and producing events that convey brand stories, values, and vision. Kitty firmly believes that every brand-customer interaction, be it at corporate events, retail spaces, conference rooms, or websites, is a chance to inspire and engage. She leverages experiential marketing and design thinking to address complex business challenges, providing innovative solutions.

Episode Highlights:

  • Importance of Designing Every Interaction: Effective companies recognize the significance of designing every moment of interaction with their audience, as it directly impacts the perception of their brand.
  • Control and Consistency: To maintain a positive brand perception, companies need to control and be consistent in how their brand shows up in various instances, ensuring there is no misunderstanding about their brand.
  • Integration of Design Thinking: Successful companies have integrated design thinking into their business strategies, which is crucial for creating memorable brand experiences.
  • Listening and Adapting: Monitoring social media and conducting surveys can help companies gauge how well their brand is perceived. If people aren’t talking about the brand or are expressing negative sentiments, it may indicate the need for improvements.
  • Crafting a Clear Brand Story: Companies should craft a clear and compelling brand story, understanding their “why.” It’s essential to involve a cross-section of the organization to create and maintain a consistent brand message.
  • Shift in Perspective: To make your brand stand out, shift your focus from products and services to the results and impact on customers. Challenge the status quo and emphasize why you do what you do.
  • Design and Visuals Matter: High-quality visuals, staging, and technology are crucial for creating engaging and enjoyable corporate events. A well-designed environment enhances the learning experience.
  • Balancing Content and Engagement: Achieving a balance between informative content and enjoyable elements like entertainment and networking is essential for successful events. Keep attendees engaged and looking forward to future events.

Kitty’s Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:

  1. Importance of being consistent with your brand no matter what size company you are. 
  2. Think about the delivery of your product or service. Observe how the delivery is designed from beginning to end (words, visuals, behaviors, etc.)
  3. Every single brand can use experiential marketing effectively. Look outside of your industry to see what brands are doing, take note of what you find interesting, and see how you can apply it to your business. 

How to Connect with Kitty:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kittyhart/

Email: khart@heroic-productions.com

Website: www.heroic-productions.com

Effective Stakeholder Management: Navigating the Key to Project Success 

/ Jana

Stakeholder management is like the compass that guides a ship through uncharted waters. In the world of project management, the success of a project often hinges on how well you manage your stakeholders. These individuals or groups can significantly influence the project’s direction, making stakeholder management a critical aspect of project success. In this blog, we will explore some valuable tips for managing stakeholders effectively, ensuring your project stays on course and reaches its destination. 

Understanding the Importance of Stakeholder Management 

Stakeholders can include anyone with an interest in your project, such as team members, clients, suppliers, investors, and end-users. Their support, involvement, and satisfaction can make or break your project. 

  1. Identifying Key Stakeholders 

The first step in effective stakeholder management is identifying who your key stakeholders are. This involves creating a comprehensive stakeholder list that covers all relevant parties. While some stakeholders are obvious, others may be less apparent. Consider who might be impacted by the project, who can influence it, and who holds a vested interest. 

  1. Categorizing Stakeholders 

Once you’ve identified your stakeholders, it’s essential to categorize them. Group them based on their level of influence and interest in the project. This will help you tailor your engagement strategies to each category. Common categorizations include: 

  • High Influence, High Interest: These stakeholders are the top priority and require close and continuous engagement. 
  • High Influence, Low Interest: Keep these stakeholders informed but minimize their involvement to prevent scope creep. 
  • Low Influence, High Interest: Keep them satisfied and informed, but their influence is limited. 
  • Low Influence, Low Interest: Monitor these stakeholders, but they may not require significant attention. 
  1. Building Relationships 

Effective stakeholder management is built on relationships. Establish open lines of communication and trust by: 

  • Regularly updating stakeholders on project progress. 
  • Listening to their concerns and feedback. 
  • Addressing their issues and queries promptly. 
  • Involving them in decision-making where relevant. 
  1. Engaging Stakeholders 

Engagement is more than just keeping stakeholders informed. It’s about involving them in the project, so they feel invested in its success. This can be achieved through: 

  • Collaborative workshops or meetings. 
  • Seeking their input on critical project decisions. 
  • Involving them in pilot testing or feedback sessions. 
  • Acknowledging their contributions and feedback. 
  1. Managing Expectations 

Clear and realistic expectations are a cornerstone of effective stakeholder management. Ensure that stakeholders have a clear understanding of what the project aims to achieve, the potential challenges, and the anticipated outcomes. This helps prevent misunderstandings and disappointment down the road. 

  1. Flexibility and Adaptability 

Projects rarely go as planned. Effective stakeholder management requires the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Be prepared to adjust project goals, timelines, and resources based on stakeholder feedback and changing requirements. 

  1. Continuous Monitoring and Feedback 

Stakeholder engagement is an ongoing process. Regularly assess stakeholder satisfaction and make adjustments as necessary. Be open to constructive criticism and use it to improve the project. 

Effective stakeholder management is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It requires adaptability, strong communication, and the ability to build and maintain relationships. When executed effectively, it can lead to stronger support for your project, reduced risks, and a smoother journey to project success. So, make stakeholder management a top priority in your project management toolkit, and watch your projects sail smoothly toward their intended destinations. 

Corporate CPR Episode 97: How Employees’ Expectations Of Their Companies Have Shifted, And How Companies’ Mindsets Might Have To Change To Stay Relevant

/ Jana

On today’s episode we are talking about how employees’ expectations of their companies have shifted, and how companies’ mindsets might have to change to stay relevant.

Joining us today is Chuck Hogan, Managing Partner at Your Best Life, an organization helping people to elevate finance, family, fitness and faith to maximize their Best Life through mentor strategizing, community and exclusive once in a lifetime experiences. His unique background of sales, business and relationship building gives him a rare perspective that enables him to successfully guide entrepreneurs, CEOS, and other top executives to new heights.

Episode Highlights:

  • Embrace Change and Possibility: The importance of embracing change and seeking possibilities, even when it means stepping out of your comfort zone. Staying in a confined space or routine can make one feel claustrophobic, especially for individuals who are free spirits or artists.
  • Recognizing and Leveraging Skills: New-age leader managers are skilled at recognizing and leveraging their employees’ unique talents, even if those talents aren’t aligned with their passion. They encourage employees to mentor others and share their expertise.
  • Patience and Job Satisfaction: The changing job landscape, where people switch jobs more frequently, may be due to a desire for continuous growth and a focus on self-expression.
  • Balancing Scripted Experiences and Personality: The balance between scripted experiences in customer service and allowing employees to showcase their personalities. It emphasizes that effective communication goes beyond scripted words and involves factors like tone, energy, and intent.
  • Rapid Technological Advancement: Technology is advancing at an unprecedented rate, causing information to become outdated quickly and changing the expectations of individuals entering the workforce.
  • Shift in Aspirational Figures: Historical business figures like the Carnegies and Vanderbilts no longer serve as the primary role models for aspiring professionals due to the changing nature of work.
  • Infinite Mindset and Just Causes: Younger generations are motivated by an infinite mindset, seeking just causes and movements that align with their values and being willing to make sacrifices for these causes.
  • Impact on Company Culture and Communication: The shift towards more independent or contract-based work can impact company culture. Effective communication and understanding of individual personalities are essential for meeting employees’ needs and expectations.

Chuck’s Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:

  1. Look in the mirror today and give appreciation to yourself.
  2. You don’t need a better life; you just need different options. You don’t “need” to shift, get to “choose” to shift.
  3. Get into the habit for time blocking. Set time aside for self-care. Your family and friends need the best of you, not what’s left of you.

How to Connect with Chuck:

Your Best Life Website: www.YBLNow.com

Email: Chuck@YBLNow.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-hogan-b8610148/

The Art of Requirements Traceability: Keeping Your Project on Track 

/ Jana

What’s the Buzz About Requirements Traceability? 

So, what exactly is “requirements traceability”? It’s the process of linking and tracking requirements throughout the entire project lifecycle. Think of it as a roadmap that ensures your project stays on course, meeting all the intended goals and objectives. Why is it so important to the success of a project? Here are a few reasons: 

  1. Clarity and Understanding: Traceability provides clarity on what’s expected from the project. It helps everyone involved understand the big picture and how each requirement fits into it. 
  1. Change Management: As projects evolve (and they always do), traceability helps manage changes by showing the impact of alterations on other parts of the project. 
  1. Quality Assurance: It ensures that all requirements are met, preventing costly errors and rework down the road. 
  1. Regulatory Compliance: For industries with strict regulations, traceability is often mandatory to demonstrate compliance. 

Creating a Traceability Matrix 

The backbone of requirements traceability is the trusty “Traceability Matrix.” It sounds complex, but it’s simply a table that links requirements from one phase to another. Here’s how to create one: 

  1. List Your Requirements: Begin by documenting all your project requirements. You can use a spreadsheet, specialized software, or even good old pen and paper. 
  1. Define Relationships: For each requirement, establish relationships with other related requirements. This can include dependencies, parent-child relationships, or any other connections. 
  1. Trace Through Phases: As your project progresses through different phases (e.g., planning, design, development, testing), ensure that each requirement is traced to its corresponding deliverables in each phase. 
  1. Maintain It: Keep your traceability matrix updated throughout the project. When requirements change or new ones emerge, make sure they are reflected in the matrix. 

Best Practices for Requirements Traceability 

Now that you know how to create a traceability matrix, let’s talk about some best practices to ensure your project remains on track: 

  1. Start Early: Begin tracing requirements from the project’s inception. The earlier you establish traceability, the easier it is to manage changes. 
  1. Document Changes: Whenever a requirement changes, document the reason, and update the matrix accordingly. This keeps everyone in the loop and avoids confusion. 
  1. Use Tools Wisely: Consider using dedicated traceability software or project management tools with built-in traceability features. They can save you time and reduce the chance of errors. 
  1. Regular Reviews: Conduct regular reviews of the traceability matrix with your team to ensure alignment and understanding. 
  1. Training: Provide training to your team on the importance of requirements traceability and how to use the matrix effectively. 
  1. Keep It Simple: Don’t overcomplicate things. Your traceability matrix should be clear and easy to understand for everyone involved in the project. 

Remember, requirements traceability is not a one-time task; it’s an ongoing process that evolves with your project. Embrace it as a valuable tool to keep your project on the path to success. 

Requirements traceability might not be the flashiest aspect of project management, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most crucial. It ensures that your project stays true to its goals, adapts to changes gracefully, and delivers the quality results you and your stakeholders expect.  

Corporate CPR Episode 96: Whether You Should Be Considering Return To Work

/ Jana

On today’s episode we are talking about whether you should be considering return to work.

Doug Camplejohn, a seasoned tech executive and entrepreneur, is the Founder and CEO of Airspeed, a platform for enhancing employee connections and recognition. With leadership experience at LinkedIn, Microsoft, and Salesforce, Doug is also an investor and advisor to startups. He’s a frequent speaker at industry events and is passionate about leveraging technology for innovation and improvement. He graduated from Carnegie Mellon University.

Episode Highlights:

  1. Return to Work Dynamics: The discussion on returning to work highlights diverse perspectives, including those in favor, against, and undecided on the matter.
  2. Motivations for Returning to Work: The motivations behind companies pushing for a return to the office are explored, including factors like real estate concerns, habit, and potential mistrust.
  3. Flexibility and Hybrid Work: The importance of workplace flexibility is emphasized, exemplified by Apple’s approach of making remote work an earned privilege based on performance.
  4. Fostering Connection: Strategies for fostering connection in remote and hybrid work environments are discussed, including techniques like Ice Breakers, which help team members get to know each other on a personal level beyond work-related discussions.
  5. Building Relationships and Mentorship: Building relationships in a remote work setting can be challenging, but it’s essential for mentorship and personal growth. The conversation suggests that employees should proactively seek out mentors and engage with colleagues through tools like virtual meetings and apps designed for connecting people.
  6. Remote Work Offers a Global Talent Pool:  The ability to hire talent from around the world is a major benefit of remote work. This global talent pool allows companies to find and employ individuals with the skills they need without being restricted to a specific geographic location.
  7. Work-Life Harmony: Companies should emphasize “work-life harmony” rather than “work-life balance.” Remote work allows employees to have more flexibility in managing their work schedules to accommodate personal commitments, ultimately leading to happier and more balanced lives.

Doug’s Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:

  1. You can’t leave culture to chance; you have to be deliberate. 
  2. Culture isn’t about words on a plaque. People are everything. 
  3. The role of startup CEOs, and even managers in larger corporations, is MVP (Money, Vision, People). 

For More Info About Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

https://b.link/corporatecpr

How to connect with Doug:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camplejohn/

Email: d@getairspeed.com

Navigating the Virtual Landscape: Strategies for Effective Virtual Team Management

/ Jana

The rise of remote work and virtual teams has become a defining trend, and as a result, project managers find themselves in a new paradigm of team management. Managing virtual teams demands a unique set of skills, strategies, and tools to ensure both productivity and team cohesion. In this blog post, we’ll explore essential tips for managing virtual teams effectively, drawing on the insights of experienced consultants in the field.

Prioritize Clear Communication: Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful virtual team. When team members are spread across different locations and time zones, it’s crucial to establish clear channels of communication. Here are some strategies to consider:

Use Multiple Communication Tools: Leverage a variety of communication platforms such as email, instant messaging, video conferencing, and project management software. Different situations call for different tools, so having a diverse toolkit helps ensure effective communication.

Establish Communication Norms: Define expectations for response times, availability, and preferred modes of communication. This helps team members understand when and how to reach out to one another.

Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular team meetings to discuss progress, address concerns, and foster a sense of connection among team members. These meetings can be daily or weekly, depending on your project’s needs.

Foster Collaboration: Collaboration is vital for virtual teams to work together seamlessly. Here are some strategies to encourage collaboration among team members:

Maintain Team Morale: Keeping team morale high in a virtual setting can be challenging, but it’s essential for productivity and employee satisfaction. Consider organizing virtual team-building activities to build rapport and trust among team members. Activities like online games, virtual coffee breaks, or video calls for non-work-related discussions can help create a sense of camaraderie.

Recognize Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate team and individual achievements. Even a simple “job well done” in a group chat can go a long way in boosting morale.

Professional Development Opportunities: Provide opportunities for team members to expand their skills and knowledge. This can include online courses, webinars, or mentorship programs.

Wellness Initiatives: Promote a healthy work-life balance by encouraging breaks, exercise, and self-care. Virtual fitness challenges or meditation sessions can be effective in this regard.

Set Clear Expectations and Goals: Setting clear expectations and goals is essential for any project, but it becomes even more critical when managing virtual teams. Here’s how to ensure everyone is on the same page:

Define Roles and Responsibilities: Clearly outline each team member’s role and responsibilities within the project. This reduces confusion and overlaps in tasks.

Set Measurable Goals: Establish SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals to give the team a clear sense of direction and progress.

Regularly Review Progress: Schedule regular performance reviews and check-ins to assess progress and make necessary adjustments. Use these opportunities to provide feedback and address any issues promptly.

Managing virtual teams effectively requires a combination of strong communication, collaboration, and morale-boosting strategies. As remote work continues to be a prevalent mode of operation, project managers must adapt and refine their skills to ensure that virtual teams remain productive and motivated. By implementing the tips outlined in this blog post, project managers can navigate the challenges of virtual team management and drive success in today’s dynamic work environment.

Corporate CPR Episode 95: Why You May Not Be Hearing Your Employees

/ Jana

On today’s episode we are talking about why you may not be hearing your employees.

Marsha Acker is known internationally as a facilitator of meaningful conversations, a host of dialogue, and a passionate agilest. Through her keynotes, books, workshops, and leadership coaching, she empowers leaders around the world to show up authentically in their lives and work — and to grow their leadership range so they can create sustainable, intentional, and positive impact. Drawing on systems thinking, structural dynamics, agility, and over 25 years’ experience in the field helping leaders and teams collaborate and align, she developed Build Your Model for Leading Change to support those stepping into new leadership roles and responsibilities.

Episode Highlights:

Front Page Crisis in Leadership: The concept of a “front page crisis,” is where leaders must deal with high-stakes situations and receive feedback from employees that becomes public news. This emphasizes the importance of effective leadership during critical moments.

Communication Styles Matter: “Structural dynamics” can be a framework for understanding communication styles, including power, affect, and meaning. Leaders need to recognize and adapt to these communication domains to improve their effectiveness in various situations.

Childhood Stories Impact Leadership: Childhood experiences often shape how leaders respond in professional settings. Exploring and understanding these early stories can help leaders navigate their communication patterns and behaviors more effectively in the workplace.

Three Operating Systems:

  1. Open System: Encourages open dialogue and participation from all.
  2. Closed System: Involves hierarchical decision-making with limited autonomy.
  3. Random System: Emphasizes autonomy and fosters innovation.

Four Conversation Actions:

  1. Move: Sets direction and proposes new ideas.
  2. Follow: Supports existing ideas.
  3. Oppose: Provides a different perspective or correction.
  4. Bystand: Offers neutral observations.

Identifying Communication Issues:

  1. Repetitive Conversations: Repeated discussions without resolution signal communication problems.
  2. Resistance to Opposition: If opposing viewpoints aren’t welcomed, diversity in discussions is lacking.
  3. Subtle Signs of Concern: Unvoiced concerns may manifest as topic shifts or silence in meetings.

Marsha’s Top 2 Takeaways for the Audience:

  1. Separate the What from the How in meetings and conversations. What is the topic and how are people engaging?
  2. Catch yourself when you start to defend your point of view. Instead, try to bring inquiry into the conversation.

How to connect with Marsha:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/marsha-acker-3486a72

Website: www.buildyourmodel.com     

Navigating Business Efficiency: The Art of Process Mapping 

/ Jana

In the fast-paced world of business, efficiency is the name of the game. Whether you’re a startup aiming to streamline operations or a seasoned corporation seeking continuous improvement, one tool that can help you achieve your goals is Business Process Mapping. This seemingly simple technique can unveil hidden inefficiencies, identify pain points, and pave the way for a brighter, more streamlined future. So, let’s dive into the art of process mapping and see how it can transform your business. 

Understanding the Current State 

To embark on a journey toward improved efficiency, you first need to understand where you currently stand. Business Process Mapping, also known as Business Process Modeling, is like taking a snapshot of your operations. It involves documenting and visualizing your existing processes to gain insights into how things are done. 

Start by selecting a process you want to analyze. It could be anything, from the way you handle customer inquiries to your product manufacturing workflow. Gather a team of individuals familiar with the process and map out each step, from the very beginning to the final result. This step is crucial because you can’t improve what you don’t understand. 

Identifying Pain Points 

Once you have a clear picture of your current process, you’ll likely start spotting the cracks in the pavement – those pain points that slow down your operations or create bottlenecks. These pain points can take many forms, such as manual data entry, excessive handoffs between departments, or unnecessary approvals. 

When identifying these pain points, it’s essential to be open-minded and gather input from all team members involved in the process. Their unique perspectives can reveal issues that might have been overlooked. Consider conducting interviews or surveys to gather qualitative data about what’s working and what’s not. 

Creating a Roadmap for Improvement 

With your current state mapped out and pain points identified, it’s time to chart a course for improvement. This is where the real magic happens. A well-constructed process map can serve as a roadmap to guide your efforts. 

  1. Set Clear Objectives: Define your goals for improvement. Are you looking to reduce costs, decrease turnaround times, or enhance customer satisfaction? Clearly defined objectives will help you stay focused. 
  1. Redesign the Process: Collaborate with your team to redesign the process. Streamline workflows, eliminate unnecessary steps, and automate repetitive tasks where possible. This is your opportunity to get creative and brainstorm innovative solutions. 
  1. Implement Changes: Once you have a redesigned process, it’s time to put it into action. Start with small, manageable changes and gradually implement larger ones. Be sure to communicate these changes effectively with your team. 
  1. Monitor and Measure: Continuous improvement is an ongoing process. Monitor the newly implemented process closely and gather data to measure its performance. Are you achieving the desired results? Are there new pain points that need addressing? 
  1. Iterate and Refine: Use the data you collect to iterate and refine your process further. It’s a cyclical process, and you should be prepared to make adjustments as needed. 

The Importance of Process Mapping 

Business Process Mapping isn’t just about identifying and fixing problems; it’s about fostering a culture of continuous improvement within your organization. By providing a clear visual representation of your processes, you empower your team to collaborate, innovate, and drive efficiency. 

Process mapping can lead to cost savings, increased productivity, improved customer satisfaction, and enhanced employee morale. It helps you work smarter, not harder, and adapt to changing market conditions. 

Business Process Mapping is a powerful tool for businesses of all sizes. It offers a structured approach to understanding, optimizing, and streamlining your operations. By understanding the current state, identifying pain points, and creating a roadmap for improvement, you can unlock the potential for growth and success in today’s competitive business landscape. So, roll out the process map, gather your team, and start charting a course towards a more efficient future. 

Corporate CPR Episode 94: The Introverted Leader And How They Can Drive A Successful Organization

/ Jana

On today’s episode we are talking about the introverted leader and how they can drive a successful organization.

Jodi Lasky is a seasoned entrepreneur, coach, and author with extensive knowledge in neuropsychology, accountability, productivity, and introversion. Drawing on her background in Communication, Culture, and Technology, as well as law, Jodi has dedicated her career to understanding leadership and personal tendencies. Her coaching program, ‘The Introvert Founder’, leverages her understanding to help introverted entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of business success, encouraging them to work in harmony with their natural tendencies rather than battling against them.

Episode Highlights:

  1. Introverts Process Internally: Introverted leaders often think deeply and make decisions internally before speaking, which can result in thoughtful and well-considered responses.
  2. Value of Silence in Meetings: Recognizing the importance of silence in meetings allows for more thoughtful discussions and ensures that everyone has the opportunity to contribute effectively.
  3. Effective Opening Questions: Introverted leaders can foster meaningful connections by using opening questions that encourage substantial conversations, bypassing small talk.
  4. Respect Non-Working Time: Introverts value their non-working time for recharging, and leaders should be mindful not to expect constant communication outside regular working hours.
  5. Empathy and Awareness: Introverts often possess heightened awareness, making them skilled at reading body language and understanding subtle cues, which can enhance empathy and understanding in leadership roles.

Jodi’s Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:

  1. Introversion is not shyness. Don’t look at a shy person and assume they are introverted and don’t look at a person who is speaking and assume they are an extrovert.
  2. Use the people around you to remember the things you need to follow up on. Remember to interact with your people.
  3. Meet people where they are. Leaders need to adjust their style, not expect others to adjust to theirs.

How to connect with Jodi:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodilasky/

Website: https://introvertfounder.com/