executive coaching

Corporate CPR Episode 117: How Executive Loneliness Might Be Killing Your Company

/ Jana

On today’s episode we are talking about how executive loneliness might be killing your company.

Nick Jonsson’s remarkable journey embodies resilience, redemption, and holistic well-being. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice and an elite Ironman athlete, Nick’s influence transcends accolades. As co-founder of Executives’ Global Network (EGN) Singapore, Malaysia & Indonesia, he supports over 900 executives, drawing from personal struggles with executive loneliness and mental health challenges. Nick’s seminal book, “Executive Loneliness,” and his podcast, “EGN Leadership Conversations,” reflect his commitment to empowering others. From despair, Nick emerged as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the transformative power of vulnerability and determination. Today, he inspires audiences worldwide with his story of triumph and possibility.

Episode Highlights:

  1. Recognize the importance of safe spaces: Executive loneliness is a significant issue, especially when individuals feel they have no safe spaces to discuss their challenges internally within their company. Finding external safe spaces through coaches, mentors, or peer groups can be crucial.
  2. Proactivity is key: Rather than waiting for internal solutions that may not exist, individuals should take ownership of their situation and actively seek out external support networks. Waiting too long can lead to increased anxiety and even depression.
  3. Embrace vulnerability: Leaders should practice vulnerability and empathy, creating a culture where it’s safe to share challenges. By being open about personal experiences and struggles, leaders can foster stronger connections within their teams and break down barriers that contribute to isolation.
  4. Resilience and perseverance: Building resilience is essential for both individuals and organizations. Leaders should demonstrate resilience through their actions, showing that they can navigate challenges effectively and bounce back from setbacks.
  5. Reflect on purpose and hobbies: Encouraging individuals to reflect on their purpose in life and revisit past hobbies can help them find fulfillment outside of work. Engaging in activities that bring joy and connection can contribute to overall well-being and combat feelings of loneliness.
  6. Seek help when needed: If feelings of hopelessness, burnout, or depression become overwhelming, it’s crucial to seek help and support. There are numerous resources available, including support groups, hotlines, therapy, and counseling, to assist individuals in navigating difficult times and fostering personal growth.

    Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:

    1. Treat vulnerability like a muscle and actively practice it in your safe spaces. Share your challenges and experiences with trusted individuals to foster connection and growth.
    2. Take the initiative to find both professional and personal safe spaces where you can freely discuss work-related and personal matters with like-minded individuals. This can include peer groups, mentors, coaches, or support networks.
    3. Use journaling as a tool for reflection and problem-solving. Write down your thoughts and feelings, both positive and painful, and take action by reaching out for help or discussing them with someone you trust. Regularly review your journal to address any unresolved issues and ensure peace of mind before bedtime.

    How to Connect with Nick:

    Website: https://www.nickjonsson.com

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-jonsson

    Corporate CPR Episode 86: How Organizations Need To Get A Stronger Change Discipline

    / Jana

    On today’s episode we are talking about how organizations need to get a stronger change discipline. 

    Jennifer Ayres, founder, and CEO of Senscient, is a culture and change expert. She and her senior-level team design and deliver deliberate, calibrated engagements that optimize meaning at work for every individual and ignites peak performance throughout the organization. Jennifer has over 20 years global management consulting experience, much of it focused helping leaders in organizations unlock the magic in their organization. She is results oriented with a proven track record for partnering with leaders to define vision and align cultural behaviors to business outcomes. Jennifer is often engaged to lead complex, challenging organizational transformations in unstructured and emerging situations. She specializes in leadership alignment, executive coaching, organizational development, and change management.

    Top 10 Takeaways:

    1. Case studies are essential for understanding the reasons behind failed change initiatives and improving change management practices.
    2. Unsuccessful change initiatives often result from inadequate planning, unclear business outcomes, and poor stakeholder engagement.
    3. Pressure from leaders and urgent business needs can lead to rushed planning and exclusion of key stakeholders.
    4. Properly explaining the “why” of the change during project kickoffs is crucial to avoid confusion, apathy, and disengagement among employees.
    5. To overcome resistance and improve projects, organizations should provide training and awareness for technology-focused teams and promote an IT business partner mindset.
    6. Re-engaging stakeholders and thorough planning can lead to successful change implementations and improved project outcomes.
    7. Transparency and acknowledging challenges are vital for successful engagements.
    8. When facing difficulties, leaders should pause and gather more perspectives from stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the project.
    9. Managing naysayers, especially influential individuals, requires empathy, curiosity, and psychological safety to foster trust and open communication.
    10. The psychological impact of change on employees must be considered and nurtured throughout the project to build a positive culture.

    Additionally, the conversation provided the following insights on effective communication and the role of change teams and champions:

    1. Effective communication requires considering different channels and subcultures within the organization to reach all stakeholders.
    2. Holistic change management goes beyond just training and communications, involving intentional communities like engagement networks and change agent groups.
    3. Ensure that change teams and champions understand their remit and have visible support from senior leaders to increase their effectiveness.
    4. Regular touchpoints and recognition for their efforts can help engage change teams and champions in the project’s success.

    Top 3 Takeaways:

    1. If you are a leader responsible for change at your organization, make sure you really focus on the “why.”

    2. There is a cost to addressing change, but a bigger cost to not implemented change. 

    3. Assume positive intent for people going into these programs. There is a reason they are resisting change. 

    How to get in touch with Jennifer:

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

    Website: https://senscientglobal.com/

    Email: hello@sencientglobal.com