In this episode, I tell a story about a conversation with a direct report and he said something interesting. He believed that a person's desire to be liked would lead him or her down the path to inauthenticity. He questioned, "If you have such a strong desire to be liked, how can you make the tough decisions, have the hard conversations, and be authentic in the face of a storm? How do you overcome the need to be liked and make hard decisions that might make some people NOT like you?"    

After thinking long and hard about this, I believe that being liked, authentic, and respected plays a significant part in exceptional leadership. 

Let's first establish that to be a good leader, you do not have to be liked. To be a good leader, you must be well respected and credible, which you gain by making good decisions, admitting mistakes, being honest, genuine and self-aware, communicating regularly and clearly, and living and breathing your purpose. These traits describe authenticity, and being an authentic leader is not only the best way to lead; it's the only way to lead.

But in my experience, being liked by those you lead is helpful, and it brings a sense of fulfillment. When people like you, they want to be around you. They are more likely to ask your opinion and give their opinions. They feel more comfortable being vulnerable, making it easier and more fun to partner with you to get things done. When you are liked, it's easier to influence your desired outcomes because people are genuinely engaged with you and want to help. 

Being an authentic leader must always come first. Likeably should be lower on the list but not dismissed. Great leaders know how to blend them to maximize effectiveness. Learn to be okay with making decisions that everyone will not like; doing the right thing is always more important than making everyone happy.

Question of the episode: "I'm struggling with some insecurity, some baggage, and I feel like it's holding me back from doing an outstanding job. What should I do?"

Baggage does what baggage does…weighs you down and holds you back.

My advice to her was this:
Examine where your insecurities are coming from. Why are you letting your insecurities determine your future? If you want to let them go, dig in and understand where they come from.

Did something happen where you were called a failure? Did someone not believe in you when you were younger? If so, forgive them for these insensitive comments. Why? Forgiveness is the fastest way to be able to say, "Thank you for your feedback. I'm going to take what serves me, and I'm letting the rest go because it's holding me back." 

The second thing I told her is this: "If you believe that you are not good at something but want to be, do more of it." Read books, hire a coach, ask questions of a mentor, and practice. It's okay if you make mistakes. You'll learn more by taking a few risks and learning what works and what doesn't work.

The only way to do hard things is to do hard things. The only way to get better at doing hard things is to do more hard things. And as you do hard things and you find successes, even if they're small ones at first. As you push yourself, you'll expand your competency zone, gain more confidence and lose that baggage.

Likeable, Authentic, and Respected: Why Great Leaders Are All Three

Ana Kraft is the Founder and CEO of Xena Workwear - a company that engineers stylish safety shoes and functional apparel for women in STEM and the Trades. This new workwear category helps professional women feel safe and confident in any work environment. Transitioning between the office and the manufacturing floor or construction site has never been so easy. Ana holds a degree in International Project Engineering from Reutlingen University in Germany and currently resides in Detroit, Michigan. The causes that drive her include sustainable development, education and maximizing opportunities for women.

Episode in a Tweet: So many of us have amazing ideas – sometimes even million-dollar ideas – but because we're afraid to fail, we don't even give it a shot.

Background: During this week's episode of Reflect Forward, Ana Kraft and I discuss what it's like to go from engineer to entrepreneur and chase your entrepreneurial dream. Ana's story is inspiring, and she shares how she came up with an idea and built a women's workwear company without fashion design expertise. Ana shares her philosophy on radical transparency and how she was inspired by Sara Blakely's philosophy on failure, "Instead of failure being the outcome, failure became not trying." We can all learn from Ana's story of believing in herself, taking risks, and learning how to be a leader while also learning how to be an entrepreneur. 

How to find Ana:
Website: https://xenaworkwear.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ana-kraft-b10878aa/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xenaworkwear/ 

Please consider ordering my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble

Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes
Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO!

And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!

From Engineer to Entrepreneur w/ Ana Kraft

Have you ever thought about how storytelling supercharges leadership? I never did until I started studying storytelling and practicing delivering stories, whether it be in meetings with my team or customers or on stage in front of an audience. And now I believe that storytelling is more than just a buzzword; it's a game-changer for leaders looking to make a real impact. It's not just telling a good story; it's about connecting, inspiring, and guiding your team in a way that numbers, memos, emails and dry, boring meetings simply can't. 

During this week’s episode of Reflect Forward, I discuss the power of storytelling in leadership and why it’s so important.
Here’s how storytelling can give your leadership a serious boost:
Boosting Connection and Engagement: We're all drawn to a good story. Studies show that stories are 22 times more memorable than facts alone. When leaders share the company's goals and values through engaging narratives, it doesn't just communicate; it resonates. 

Earning Trust and Credibility: People tend to trust those they can relate to. By weaving personal insights and experiences into their narratives, leaders can break down barriers, showing they're not just in the command tower but in the trenches with their team.
Igniting Action and Embracing Change: Ever heard a story that made you want to do something? That's the magic of storytelling – painting a picture of what could be, making the leap from the present to the future less daunting. By framing change as an exciting chapter in the company's story, leaders can inspire everyone to jump on board.

Making Lessons Stick:  By turning lessons into narratives, leaders can make even the driest material come alive, ensuring the message isn't just heard but remembered and applied.

Building Resilience and Adaptability: In the face of challenges, the right story can be a powerful motivator. Leaders can use stories to frame setbacks as stepping stones, encouraging a mindset that sees every challenge as a chance to grow and innovate.
In a nutshell, storytelling is a skill that all leaders can benefit from. People want to connect with their leaders and the vision and the mission of the company. By weaving compelling narratives, leaders can foster a more connected, motivated, and resilient team ready to turn visions into reality. 

And the best part? Everyone loves a good story, so why not make your leadership strategy as engaging as your favorite book or movie?

Please consider ordering my book on Amazon or Barnes and Noble

Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes

Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Reflect Forward.

And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!

How Storytelling Supercharges Leadership

:  Melinda is a 5-time serial entrepreneur in media-tech, and the founder and CEO of Podopolo, innovating AI and Blockchain to revolutionize the podcasting ecosystem.

Episode in a Tweet: Fear limits us, dampens our dreams, and keeps us playing small. We can transform your life when we find our voice and step up to life’s challenges.

Background: During this week’s episode of Reflect Forward, Melinda Wittstock and I get real about what it takes to be an entrepreneur. Melinda shares her enterprising youth, how she lost herself along the way, and why it took getting out of a toxic relationship to find her entrepreneurial passion once again. I love that her grandmother once told her, “You’re so disruptive!” And she proved her right, over and over again. 

Melinda shares her journey from being an award-winning content creator for some of the world’s most respected news programs to developing technology platforms that turn content into conversations. Most recently, she founded Podopolo, a podcasting ecosystem that allows content creators to access more in-depth listener data, use AI matching serves to connect with new listeners and market their podcasts more effectively so they can hone their message and grow their audiences. 

Melinda and I also go on a spiritual tangent, discussing the conscious journey of leadership and why being in tune with yourself makes you a better human and leader. 

I so enjoyed interviewing Melinda, and I hope you get as much out of this episode as I did.

And if you liked this conversation, check out my episode on Melinda’s Wings of Inspired Business here: https://melindawittstock.com/wingspodcast/kerry-siggins/

How to find Melinda:

Website: https://podopolo.com 
Wings podcast: https://melindawittstock.com/wingspodcast
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/melindawittstock

Order my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble

Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes
Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO!

And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!

The Conscious Journey of Leadership w/ Melinda Wittstock

Leaders need to protect their time. Why? In the fast-paced realm of leadership, the adage "time is money" transforms into an even more profound truth: time is opportunity. But in an era where the average person is bombarded with emails, meetings, and constant interruptions, how can leaders safeguard their most precious asset? We discuss why leaders need to protect their time during this week's episode of Reflect Forward.
The Leader's Time Conundrum
Leadership often shoves leaders into the paradox of availability: the more accessible you are, the less available you actually become for the things that truly matter. A study by McKinsey revealed that senior executives spend more than 28% of their working hours reading and answering emails. That's nearly a third of their workweek, not strategizing, innovating, or leading, but wading through an inbox!
And then there's the myth of multitasking – the revered skill in the modern job description. Yet, neuroscience debunks this myth, particularly for leaders. Research indicates that task-switching can reduce productivity by up to 40%. For leaders, whose decisions carry weight, the cost of diminished focus is not just in hours lost but in opportunities missed and errors made. As it turns out, our brains like focusing on one thing at a time.
And what leader doesn't need to do deep work? Cal Newport's "Deep Work" concept - the ability to focus without distraction on cognitively demanding tasks - is a clarion call for leaders. Strategy is born in deep work, where innovative solutions to complex problems are found. Yet, in a survey, 65% of senior managers confessed that meetings keep them from completing their own work. Leaders must become the architects of their time, carving out blocks for uninterrupted thought and creativity.
The Ripple Effect of Leadership Focus
Leaders set the tempo and tone of their organizations. A leader buried in administrative tasks and endless meetings signals that this is what valued work looks like. On the contrary, a leader who prioritizes strategic thinking, team development, and high-impact projects inspires their team to emulate these practices. It's not just about protecting your time; it's about modeling how to use time effectively for your entire organization.
Strategies for Time Protection
Audit Your Time: Keep a log for a week. You'll be surprised where the hours go. Identify time-drains and strategize how to eliminate or delegate them.
Time-Blocking: Dedicate specific blocks of time for emails, meetings, and deep work. Guard these blocks fiercely, as you would a meeting with your most important client.
Learn to Say No: Every "yes" to a new commitment is a "no" to something else, potentially more important. Evaluate opportunities through the lens of your strategic priorities.
Leverage Technology: Use tools that help automate repetitive tasks and manage your schedule efficiently. But beware, technology is a servant, not a master.
Cultivate a Culture of Respect for Time: Encourage your team to adopt similar practices. Make it known that you value deep work and strategic thinking over mere busyness.
Protecting time isn't just about finding more hours in the day; it's about ensuring you spend your hours on the work that truly matters. It's about leading by example and setting a culture that values depth over breadth and quality over quantity. 

Order my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble

Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes
Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO!

And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!

: Why Leaders Need to Protect Their Time

Mike Bollinger has been with StoneAge for over a decade and is proud to work at StoneAge. Before joining the StoneAge team, he was a buyer planner for Honeywell, the operations manager for an automotive manufacturer, and owned two companies. Since joining StoneAge, he has held the roles of Order Fulfillment Manager, Sewer Sales Director, Director of Operations, and now the Director of Global Operations. He oversees procurement, global branch operations, manufacturing, continuous improvement, quality, facilities, and safety.

Episode Insight: Not everybody will show up great to work every day. What you can do is try to help that person have a better day. That’s what leadership is about. 

Background: During this week’s episode of Reflect Forward, I interview Mike Bollinger, StoneAge’s Director of Operations. We talk about what it was like for him to take a backward step in his career to join the StoneAge team and what he’s learned about leadership, life, and loving what you do since joining the StoneAge team. Mike is a remarkable leader who exemplifies The Ownership Mindset. I hope you enjoy this sneak peek into what it’s like working with StoneAge. 

How to find Mike:
Website: www.stoneagetools.com 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikebollinger1/ 

Please consider ordering my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble

Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes
Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO!

And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!

What It’s Like to Work at StoneAge w/Mike Bollinger

These past few weeks have been intense! We are going through so much change at StoneAge that I am feeling it – I typically handle significant change well, but I have never been so happy for Friday to come as I was this week! So, for this week’s episode, I want to share my thoughts on what to do when you are overwhelmed by change. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed – you are of course human – but as a leader, you must work through it effectively, so you can lead your team well. It’s okay to acknowledge your feelings. It’s not a sign of weakness; it's a critical step towards effective leadership and organizational resilience. 

Here are five strategies for business leaders to navigate through the waves of change:

1.	Embrace Vulnerability
Admitting to oneself about feeling overwhelmed by change is pivotal. It's a form of vulnerability that can be a significant leadership strength. It fosters authenticity, which cultivates trust among team members. When leaders are honest about their challenges, it encourages a culture of openness and support, vital for navigating through turbulent times.

2.	Prioritize Self-Care
In the hustle of managing organizational change, leaders often neglect their well-being. Self-care is not a luxury; it's a necessity for sustained leadership. Regular physical activity, adequate rest, and mental health support are essential. A leader who is well-rested and mentally sharp is better equipped to tackle challenges and make strategic decisions.

3.	Seek Diverse Perspectives
Change can be complex and multifaceted, often requiring more than one viewpoint to understand fully. Leaders should actively seek diverse perspectives, both within and outside their organization-consulting with team members from different departments, seeking advice from mentors, or engaging with industry peers. Diverse insights can lead to innovative solutions and help leaders see the bigger picture.

4.	Delegate and Empower
No leader can, or should, handle everything on their own. Delegation is not just a means to manage workload; it's an opportunity to empower team members. Entrusting tasks and decision-making to others  can foster a sense of ownership and accountability within teams. 

5.	Give it Time
Adapting to change is not an overnight process; it requires patience and perseverance. Recognize that both you and your organization need time to absorb, understand, and implement changes effectively. Rushing through transformations can lead to half-baked strategies and burnout. Set realistic timelines and milestones, and celebrate small victories along the way. This gradual approach helps in building momentum and ensures that the change is sustainable in the long run. Enduring change is a marathon, not a sprint.

The Importance of Leading Through Change
The ability to lead through change is about navigating the current landscape and preparing the organization for future challenges. Leaders who manage their overwhelm effectively can maintain clarity and focus, essential for strategic planning and decision-making. 

A leader's skill in handling change well is crucial for their success. Forbes reports that 31% of CEOs lose their jobs for failing to manage organizational change well. And Gartner says that an astonishing 73% of employees impacted by change report that they experience moderate to high level of stress.

The acknowledgment of overwhelm and the proactive steps to navigate through it are not merely about survival but about thriving in a world of perpetual change.  

Please consider ordering my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble

Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes
Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO!

And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!

What to Do When Overwhelmed by Change

Scott Snider had to transform his leadership style to be successful. Scott is the President of the Exit Planning Institute (EPI) and the Operating Partner of Snider Premier Growth, a small family investment company. At EPI, Scott is responsible for the organization's strategic direction and overseeing the company's operations and chapter development. Since joining EPI, Scott has expanded the organization regionally, nationally, and globally, providing a transformational educational experience to advisors from all specialties across the globe.

Scott is a nationally recognized industry leader, growth specialist, and lifetime entrepreneur. As EPI's operational and strategic leader, Scott thrives on helping advisors learn how to educate clients, achieve market distinction, and deliver real results.
Episode Insight: Command and control doesn't work. People don't want to work for a boss who barks orders at them. They want to work for someone who inspires them to be their best. 

Background: Scott Snider was a command-and-control kind of guy. His first company was a full-service landscaping firm where a chain of command worked. When he took over running The Exit Planning Institute, Scott quickly learned that his old way of leading didn't work. Swallowing his pride, he embraced feedback from his closest employees, transforming his leadership style and, in turn, his company. 

During this episode of Reflect Forward, Scott and I go deep and discuss what it's like to rip up company values that are no longer working and rebuild not only your culture but yourself in the process. Scott does not like to get vulnerable, which he talks about during the interview, but he shares how tough it was to hear the feedback and how grateful he is for his employees/friends who stood by his side. This episode is real and I know you'll appreciate Scott's journey to finding himself and being himself. 

How to find Scott:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-snider-epi/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottsniderepi/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/episnider 
Websites: 	www.exit-planning-institute.org
		www.fishingforvalue.com
		www.BeyondCEPA.com 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/exit-planning-institute/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exitplanninginstitute/ 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/beyondcepa 

Please consider ordering my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble

Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes
Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO!

And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!

Post idea:
Join me for a revealing episode of Reflect Forward, where I sit down with Scott Snider, the dynamic leader behind The Exit Planning Institute. In this episode, Scott opens up about his transition from a command-and-control leadership style to one that embraces openness and employee feedback. We delve into his significant challenges when overhauling company values and his journey toward vulnerability. This powerful conversation sheds light on the transformative impact of embracing change on leadership and personal growth. Tune in to hear Scott's candid story of finding himself and redefining his leadership style.

How to Transform Your Leadership Style and Save Your Company w/ Scott Snider

Navigating tough choices and the ability to make hard decisions swiftly and effectively separates the good leaders from the great ones. I’ve learned that decisiveness in leadership is not just about making decisions quickly; it's about making the right decisions under pressure, with limited information, and often, with significant consequences on the line. 

And that’s the topic of this week’s episode of Reflect Forward – how to simplify the process of navigating tough choices and making hard decisions.

Why is being decisive so crucial for leaders? 
Decisiveness instills confidence in a team, drives forward momentum, and demonstrates a clear direction. It's about commitment to action despite uncertainties. According to a survey by McKinsey, 72% of senior executives believe bad strategic decisions either were about the same as, or even more frequent than, good ones, indicating a significant opportunity for improvement in leadership decision-making.

Here are six practical tips to help leaders navigate the complex waters of tough decision-making:

1. Embrace a Structured Decision-Making Framework
Implementing a structured framework can streamline the decision-making process. This might involve defining the problem clearly, identifying all possible solutions, weighing the pros and cons, and considering the impact of each option. The DECIDE Model, offered at the end of this write-up, provides a systematic approach, reducing the overwhelming nature of complex decisions.

2. Explore Different Viewpoints
Diversity in thought and perspective can be a game-changer in decision-making. Encouraging input from a range of team members can uncover blind spots and introduce innovative solutions. This collaborative approach enriches the decision-making process and fosters a culture of inclusion and respect.

3. Prioritize Transparency and Communication
Transparency in the decision-making process builds trust within the team. Explaining the 'why' behind decisions can mitigate resistance and garner support. Effective communication ensures that all team members are aligned and understand the rationale, which is crucial for smooth implementation.

4. Accept Imperfection and Be Prepared to Pivot
No decision comes with a guarantee of perfection.  Reevaluation and the willingness to pivot when new information becomes available or when circumstances change is a valuable trait in today's dynamic business environment.

5. Leverage Data and Insights
In an era where data is queen, leveraging analytics and insights can provide a solid foundation for decision-making. Data-driven decisions tend to be more objective and can significantly reduce the ambiguity associated with tough choices. However, it's crucial to balance data with intuition and emotional intelligence.

6. Practice Self-Care
When you are feeling stressed about making a tough decision, practice self-care. Get some sleep, eat well, exercise and meditate. All of these are proven to help you think more clearly and reduce stress. 

Incorporating these strategies can make the daunting task of navigating tough decisions more manageable. The goal is not to avoid difficult decisions but to become more adept at navigating them. As leaders hone these skills, they not only enhance their own effectiveness but also inspire confidence and resilience in their teams. 

The DECIDE Model stands for:
D - Define the problem
E - Establish the criteria
C - Consider all the alternatives
I - Identify the best alternative
D - Develop and implement a plan of action
E - Evaluate and monitor the solution

Please consider ordering my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble

Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes
Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO!

And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!

A Guide to Navigating Tough Choices

Greg Voisen is a thought leader in the personal growth and human potential movement. Founder of Inside Personal Growth, Greg has interviewed over 1,100+ authors via podcasts and has developed over 1,200 hours of recorded podcasts over the last 17 years. Topics include personal growth, business, wellness, mastery, and spirituality. 

Greg's primary focus is advising small to medium-sized business owners on financial management, human capital development, process improvement, sales and marketing, and succession planning. His consulting group, eLuminate Consulting, Inc., has a team of six associates dedicated to fulfilling the needs of his clients. 

Greg is also co-author with John Selby of Wisdom, Wellness and Redefining Work, which is designed to bring awareness to businesses about the impacts of stress in the workplace and to effect a positive change in coping with stress, reducing medical costs, and improving employee's overall engagement and performance. He is also the author of "Hacking the Gap-From Intuition to Innovation and Beyond" and the co-author of "The Precipice of Life" with Bo Parfet and Kathy Sparrow. 

Greg has a bachelor's degree in Business Management from San Diego State University and a Master's in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica. 

Episode in a Tweet: What does forward look like to you? Because you're not going reverse. You've already been there. That's a rear view mirror. Instead, look through the windshield. 

Background: I had the pleasure of joining Greg on his podcast Inside Personal Growth. I knew he had to join Reflect Forward to share his lifelong experience of learning from failure, investing in personal development, and integrating spirituality into your life and work. 

During this week's episode, Greg shares how failure propelled him forward and how curiosity helped him find his purpose. Greg and I get a bit philosophical – he does have a degree in spiritual psychology, after all – and we discuss the power of finding contenement rather than constantly searching for more or consuming more "stuff." This is a deep conversation that I know you'll enjoy. 

How to find Greg:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregvoisen/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insidepersonalgrowth/ 
Webste: https://insidepersonalgrowth.com/ 
	www.hackingthegap.com
www.gregvoisen.com
	www.eluminate.net

Order my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble

Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes
Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO!

And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!

Don't Think Different, Think Remarkable w/ Greg Voisen

Have you ever thought about mastering the art of bad news? One of the most challenging situations you can face as a leader is hearing and delivering bad news. Whether it's financial losses, project setbacks, or organizational changes that might not be well received, handling these moments can significantly impact your effectiveness and the trust you engender in your team. 

During this week's episode of Reflect Forward, I discuss how you can manage your reactions and confidently guide your team during difficult times.

Handling Yourself with Poise
The first step in dealing with bad news is managing your own emotional response. It's natural to feel stressed, disappointed, or even angry, but your reactions are closely observed as a leader and can set the tone for the entire team. During the episode, I discuss the importance of pausing before reacting, assessing the situation objectively, and seeking counsel.

The Importance of Staying Cool, Calm, and Collected
The demeanor you exhibit in times of crisis is a direct reflection of your leadership. Staying calm helps you think more clearly and reassures your team that challenges are manageable. Why does a composed attitude matter? It [promotes rational thinking, helps you stay calm and reduces anxiety among team members, leading to a more constructive approach to solving problems.

Responding in a Way That Builds Trust and Respect
How you communicate bad news can significantly affect how your team perceives the situation and your leadership. Here's how to approach it:

Be Transparent: Share what you know and admit what you don't. Honesty fosters trust and invites the team to be part of the solution, which can lead to innovative approaches to challenges.

Show Empathy: Acknowledge the impact of the bad news on your team. Expressing empathy can alleviate fears and foster a supportive culture.

Empower Your Team: Involve your team in crafting solutions. Asking your team what they think not only enhances their commitment to the organizational goals but also boosts morale.

Follow Through with Action: After discussing the bad news and potential solutions, outline clear steps forward and follow through. Accountability shows that you are proactive and dedicated to overcoming obstacles.

Creating Psychological Safety and Earning Respect
Responding effectively to bad news involves creating an environment where team members feel safe to express concerns and propose solutions without fear of negative repercussions. I recommend encouraging open communication, leading by example, and acknowledging your team's effort. Doing these things will boost morale and strengthen loyalty.

Handling bad news well not only helps in managing the immediate challenges but also strengthens your reputation as a capable leader. By staying composed, being transparent, and creating an inclusive environment, you can guide your team through adversity and emerge stronger on the other side.

Please consider ordering my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble

Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes
Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO!

And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!

Mastering the Art of Bad News

Reflect Forward isn’t your everyday leadership podcast. This show is about exceptional leadership. Game-changing leadership. Learn from peers, experts, authors, and more on how to be an uber successful leader…one that stands out from the rest. One that inspires others to do great things. One that others want to follow. How does Reflecting Forward fit into exceptional leadership? You can only become great at what you do by deliberately creating your future by reflecting on the past and present…what you did well, mistakes you’ve made, and lessons you’ve learned.

Kerry Siggins is the CEO of StoneAge, the global leader in the manufacturing and distribution of high pressure waterjetting tooling and automated equipment. Kerry is also a member of Young President's Organization (YPO) and sits on several boards. She is a sought-after speaker, thought leader, leadership blogger and podcast host.

Likeable, Authentic, and Respected: Why Great Leaders Are All Three

Reflect Forward

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