I’ve introduced the three underlying principles of New Leadership. The idea that employees are autonomous, meaningful partners, driven by the natural desire to behave according to these natural ways of being. And yet, across our organizations, human characteristics also prevent these from becoming practice. What are these characteristics and how do they guide our behavior?…
New Leadership, Part 3: The Core Values and Beliefs of New Leadership
My last article suggested a different approach to motivation, driven by intrinsic factors and our innate tendencies towards purpose and autonomy. Using a few examples, I illustrated the ways that protecting others’ self-esteem with respect is often a trigger for creativity, innovation, and positive emotions. Allowing people to be driven by their natural interests is…
New Leadership, Part 2: Relighting the fire; Do we really try?
In my previous blog, I looked at how the two previous centuries have been characterized by certain beliefs about motivation. Most commonly, that rewarding, punishing, or giving people attention was ‘the best’ way to motivate them. I also argued that this perspective—that extrinsic rewards are effective—is still prevalent. I thus suggested that in the 21st…
Part 8: Brain-Friendly Leadership Tips
As we bring this change and emotions series to a close, I would like to share 3 final brain-friendly leadership tips. Please feel free to share your thoughts with me! 7. Co-create as much as possible. Co-creation is possible when people get autonomy within a clear framework (a defined direction and playing field). This is…
Change and emotions Part 5: Behaviour is Key: The Leadership Compass
When using the leadership compass, it is important to highlight the following key points (practical examples follow in the next part of these articles): The difference between inside, outside and other side. In my experience, it is common to find a difference between the inside (what do you intend to communicate), the outside (what you…
Part 4: Leadership equals influence: navigate change and success by use of the leadership compass
How to become very effective in onboarding people on your vision, plan or change? To do that you have to take into account the mammal brain of people which asks for clarity on 2 major questions: “can I trust you?” and “who is more dominant?”
Part 3: Your first 7 words! They Make or Break
The oldest part of our brain, the reptile brain, is very determined to make sure that a person stays safe. So it plays a role in every communication that happens within an organization but is even more crucial when an important change is announced! The challenge is to awaken the crocodile without getting into a fight!
Part 2: Tips to make change communication highly effective
How we communicate during change and how we onboard people must be in alignment with the 3 major parts of our brain (the reptile, mammal and rational brain)! They each need to hear a different message. In this article, you will learn how to make sure that your message is appealing to each of them, which will make your impact much bigger.
Part 1: The Brain Team
Often we assume that people are rational beings. However different parts of the brain are more in control than the rational one. This has huge consequences for change, leadership and communication within our organizations.
My Wish for the New Year
Innovation, agility, engagement and ownership are key assets for the future of your business. Based on an experience of 30 years and an in-depth analysis of literature and science we have summarized for you the key focus points to shape them. They are free, connect and develop people. They form the core elements of our innovative training “leading for entrepreneurship”.