Unveiling the Heart of Leadership: The Right Conversation

Hey there! Shari Pheasant here, and I’m beyond thrilled to welcome you to delve into the depths of leadership, employee engagement, and professional development with me by listening to my weekly podcast, The Right Conversation. We’re going to explore why having the right conversations is crucial to transforming your team and, ultimately, your business. ANd we are going to have those conversations, you know, the tough ones, the ones that can move the pin, but we may be holding back on.  This isn’t just about talking; it’s about connecting, understanding, and driving meaningful change through the right conversations.

Why the Right Conversation?

In my years of experience, I’ve come across a common misconception: people think communication is the biggest problem in a team. But I disagree. The real issue is that we’re not having the right conversations. Let’s break this down:

1. Right Person:  Often we are talking to the wrong person about our issue or concerns, or even our ideas and our goals. It is so important to be able to step into a conversation with the people that can assist us.
2. Right Thing: Often, we talk to the wrong person about the right thing, in fact we do this a lot.  If is the number one mistake right in the beginning of the conversation chain. We can also talk to the right person about the wrong thing. We may not want to speak directly and so our conversation does not come across as we need or intend. Just getting this straight can make a world of difference. 
3. Right Time: Timing is everything. Ensuring the person is ready to receive the message and that it’s the right moment is crucial. For instance, talking to someone to give them feedback about a problem in the middle of the problem may not be the best time. Sometimes, it is best to wait until things cool down a bit before digging in.
4. Right Tone: The same words can come across very differently depending on how they’re said. Tone and intonation matter more than we realize. Remember, sometimes they don’t remember what you said but they always remember how you made them feel. This comes from tone.
5. Right Intentions: Conversations should be driven by a genuine desire to understand and develop, not to prove a point or assert dominance. Having the right intentions comes out in your energy, your tone and how you lead the conversation to it’s conclusion or solution.

These elements form the foundation of effective communication and leadership.

If this resonates with you, I invite you to listen to my podcast, The Right Conversation. There, we dive deeper into these principles and how they can revolutionize your approach to leadership.

The Evolution of Workforce Expectations

The workforce has changed dramatically with new generations bringing fresh perspectives and expectations. We’ve witnessed the Great Resignation, quiet quitting, and now the big breakup. These phenomena highlight a misalignment between current work environments and the expectations of today’s employees.

Many label younger generations as entitled, but I challenge that notion. Instead, consider them particular. They seek meaningful work, value-aligned leadership, and continuous development. As leaders, we must adapt and embrace these shifts.

For instance, I always emphasize the importance of naked leadership—being vulnerable and transparent. It’s about showing up as your authentic self and expecting the same from your team. This authenticity fosters trust and drives engagement.

Want to learn more about adapting your leadership style to meet these new expectations? Tune in to The Right Conversation, where we explore practical strategies and insights.

The Science Behind the Right Conversation

My approach is rooted in science—specifically, the five sciences of self:

1. Observable Behavior (DISC): Understanding visible behaviors.
2. Driving Forces: What motivates you.
3. Emotional Intelligence (EQ): Managing self-awareness and social awareness.
4. Competencies: The skills and abilities that define superior performance.
5. Acumen: How you see yourself and the world.

Together, these sciences create a comprehensive picture of human potential, we call it The Five Sciences of Self. By understanding these elements, leaders can better navigate the complexities of human behavior and drive meaningful change within their teams bringing more profit to the bottom line with ease.

Consider this: When was the last time you evaluated your team’s competencies or driving forces, what “motivates” them? How well do you understand their emotional intelligence or acumen? These insights are invaluable for creating a thriving, productive work environment.

Ready to unlock your team’s potential? Join me on The Right Conversation, where we break down these sciences and how they apply to real-world leadership challenges.

Embracing Change and Innovation

The business landscape is constantly evolving, and staying ahead requires a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation. Leadership isn’t just about maintaining the status quo; it’s about pushing boundaries, embracing new ideas, and fostering an environment where creativity can flourish.

I love using the analogy of making spaghetti sauce—constantly adjusting and adding ingredients to perfect the recipe. Similarly, in business, we must continually adapt our strategies and approaches to meet changing needs and expectations. By the way, personal share: I am Italian, my maiden name is Spallacia and my grandfather came over through Ellis island right before the war.  

Leadership today requires a blend of behavioral flexibility, emotional intelligence, and a deep understanding of human potential. It’s about creating a holistic, inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best.

Let’s keep this conversation going. Subscribe to The Right Conversation for more insights and strategies to enhance your leadership journey.

Final Thoughts

Leadership is a journey, not a destination. It’s about having the right conversations at the right time with the right intentions. It’s about being vulnerable, embracing change, and continuously striving to create a better workplace for your team. This is going to require stretching the envelope, going out on a limb and taking chances.

So, are you ready to transform your leadership approach and unlock your team’s full potential? Join me on this exciting journey by tuning into The Right Conversation. Let’s start talking about the tough stuff and make meaningful change happen—together.

I’ll see you on the inside.