The Three Secrets to Strong Leadership

When was the last time you paused to consider what makes an awesome leader AND if you measure up to those expectations? If you found yourself pausing and finding the answer to be “…quite a long time ago…” then this podcast is for you.

Alain Hunkins, the author of Cracking the Leadership Code, is a leadership expert who connects the science of high performance with the performing art of leadership. Leaders trust him to help unlock their potential and expand their influence, leading to superior results, increased engagement, higher levels of retention, and greater organizational and personal satisfaction. He has a gift for translating complex concepts from psychology, neuroscience, and organizational behavior into simple, practical tools that can be applied on the job.

Back to the Basics

Little Alain knew exactly what he wanted to be. In fact, sources quote him as saying, “Mrs. Newman, I want to be a leadership consultant and coach!” Okay, that’s not quite how it went. He never knew what he wanted to do, he just knew he wanted to be happy. Kinda makes you tear up a bit, doesn’t it? (Alain has a goosebumps origin story, you have to listen to it!)

Leadership Toxicity

Did you know that only 23% of employees say that they work under effective leadership? And that number doesn’t fluctuate much. Why do people lead the way they do? Well, we copy the behavior of the previous generations, and needless to say, it’s a vicious cycle. This mentality of “We don’t pay you to think, we pay you to shut up and do your job,” is part of this inherited legacy we hold. The workplace doesn’t run with democracy and a power struggle ensues.

Cracking the Leadership Code

We all have what we call “alarm clock moments” where we are jolted awake in life and realize whatever you’re doing isn’t working. Self-awareness is key to emotional intelligence. If you haven’t already, get to know each and every one of your employees. Ask for opinions. Take an asking instead of a telling approach. (Learn the Connecting, Communicating, and Collaborating approach by watching or listening to our conversation!)

Fears of a Leader

Relationships are scary. Vulnerability and empathy can backfire. But, guess what? The payoff is worth it. Building a relationship and putting people first is not an item you can check off your to-do list. The leadership paradox presents itself with the question, “When do you go fast and when do you go slow?” A lot of leaders are uncomfortable with emotions. Learn to let that unease go and embrace the fact that people bring their lives to work. Checking your feelings at the door will only suppress them, not stop them. Allow your employees to show up and show their feelings. This builds trust for all involved.

Easing the Professional Mask

Lead. By. Example. We’re all familiar with the idea. Now put that into action. If you want your employees/colleagues to open up to you, you have to open up to them. We’re not saying group therapy sessions, but you don’t have to hide behind that professional mask with your coworkers. Bonus tip? Listen with purpose instead of listening with the intent of responding. People can tell the difference. You’ll discover your relationships transform with this technique.

A Lens for Leading

Everything is a team sport. IF you’re leading a team, how do you make sure the entire team achieves results? Part of teamwork is knowing which role you play for each project. The journey of leadership development never ends. Ready to turn teamwork into dream work? Alain gives some real nuggets of wisdom here, including an exclusive offer – but you’ll have to tune in to hear the rest!