People follow very different pathways to become the colleagues or clients you now know. Just like you, a host of experiences, events, and people have shaped their lives. When leaders take the time to learn even a small slice of that backstory, the nature of the relationship changes.
When I was new to a place, I would meet with each person in their office. I hate to admit it, but my opening question was nothing more than, “what’s going on?” How people answered was just as telling as what they shared, and it almost always fostered a robust conversation. Frankly, people had never been listened to before by their bosses, so they were ready to let loose!
What parts of your thinking were shaped by the geography where you were raised?
But I think I like that question, because I like my answer to it... maybe I should think of a question that doesn't just tee me up to speak. Do you think? LOL
Asking questions is imperative, as is actually caring about your people and showing it. There is a lot of hype around buzzwords like leader/leadership. A lot of people are waking up to the bs. How can any of us respect or ADMIRE CEOs or any of the C-Suite who don't get results, yet walk away with tens of millions of dollars in a golden parachute. All while laying off many hardworking men and women. Many who only have a little savings to fall back on...
Would love to hear YOUR favorite question to ask to explore someone's backstory.
When I was new to a place, I would meet with each person in their office. I hate to admit it, but my opening question was nothing more than, “what’s going on?” How people answered was just as telling as what they shared, and it almost always fostered a robust conversation. Frankly, people had never been listened to before by their bosses, so they were ready to let loose!
Appreciate the example, Jim.
This kind of curiosity is never just one question.
What parts of your thinking were shaped by the geography where you were raised?
But I think I like that question, because I like my answer to it... maybe I should think of a question that doesn't just tee me up to speak. Do you think? LOL
Thanks for sharing, Steve.
Great points are made on this one.
Asking questions is imperative, as is actually caring about your people and showing it. There is a lot of hype around buzzwords like leader/leadership. A lot of people are waking up to the bs. How can any of us respect or ADMIRE CEOs or any of the C-Suite who don't get results, yet walk away with tens of millions of dollars in a golden parachute. All while laying off many hardworking men and women. Many who only have a little savings to fall back on...
Food for thought.
Thank you for your time.
Love to read your comments, Joe. Keep them coming.