LEAD NEXT Tomorrow College

Navigating Feedback Across Generations in Leadership
In this episode, we tackle the complexities of delivering effective feedback across different generations within a team. We focus on Mei, a young project manager in Singapore, who faces the challenge of addressing performance issues with Raj, a seasoned software developer with over two decades of experience.
We discuss the unique challenges young leaders may encounter when managing older or more experienced team members. The conversation includes strategies for tailoring feedback that respects their expertise while still addressing current performance concerns. Key points cover the importance of having the right mindset before giving feedback, clarifying intent, fostering a growth mindset, and steps to follow when feedback reveals deeper performance issues. The episode highlights the leader's role in leveraging individual talents for team success, avoiding competition on expertise, and how to approach sensitive feedback conversations with respect and mutual understanding.
00:00 Introduction to Cross-Generational Feedback
00:12 Understanding the Challenge: Mei's Dilemma
00:54 Preparing for Feedback: Strategies and Mindset
05:04 Navigating the Feedback Conversation with Raj
09:05 Listening and Problem Solving: Engaging Raj
17:19 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps
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Before you go:
Case examples for LEAD NEXT Podcast - Submit your case example! In each podcast episode we discuss one leadership situation. I'd love to hear from you if you have any challenging situations that you would like me to address in an episode. Submit your suggestions through this form!
Mentioned in this episode:
I created a free cheat sheet packed with scripts, words and sentences to use in the most tricky feedback situations, like giving feedback to a new hire or to someone who thinks they are the best performer ever, but actually have some serious things to work on. Make sure you grab this right away through this link, so you can keep it at hand whenever you face any of these situations.
Say It Right

Navigating High Potential Employees and the Challenge of Overpromising
In this episode, we explore how to manage high potential employees who may risk overpromising and underdelivering. We delve into the case of Viet, who works at a digital marketing agency in Hanoi. His senior manager, Tran, plans to discuss managing expectations and promoting sustainable growth during a one-on-one meeting with Viet.
We cover strategies for recognizing Viet's contributions while guiding him to manage the risks of his overeagerness. The discussion emphasizes the importance of exploring underlying beliefs and mindsets, providing fact-based feedback, and creating a supportive environment that builds trust and fosters growth.
00:00 Introduction to Belief Systems and Their Impact
00:29 The Rising Star: A Case Study on Managing Expectations
01:04 Strategies for Effective Feedback and Growth
02:44 Understanding and Rewiring Mindsets for Success
05:04 Practical Steps for Constructive Feedback and Support
12:09 Concluding Thoughts on Leadership and Feedback
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Before you go:
Case examples for LEAD NEXT Podcast - Submit your case example! In each podcast episode we discuss one leadership situation. I'd love to hear from you if you have any challenging situations that you would like me to address in an episode. Submit your suggestions through this form!
Mentioned in this episode:
I made a free checklist that lays out all the steps in how to prepare well if you’re giving feedback to someone. I don’t have to tell you that being well prepared makes all the difference. So go ahead and download this simple one-pager for free from this link.
Prep Like A Pro

Managing Remote Teams: Strategies for Effective Communication and Performance
In this episode, we explore the challenges and strategies for managing remote teams effectively. We spotlight Devi, a project manager in Jakarta, who strives to maintain unity within her team and ensure that Nat, a team member based in Bangkok, remains integrated and meets his deadlines.
We provide actionable advice for managing remote work. This includes being explicit in all communications, consistently checking in with team members, effectively utilizing online collaboration tools, and fostering personal connections to build trust. Additionally, we recommend organizing virtual or in-person gatherings to strengthen team bonds and improve collaboration, ultimately aimed at boosting team performance and project success in remote settings.
00:00 Introduction to Remote Team Feedback
00:33 Devi's Challenge with Remote Team Management
00:56 Strategies for Enhancing Team Cohesion Remotely
01:43 The Importance of Clear Communication in Remote Work
02:42 Setting Expectations and Providing Feedback
05:39 Regular Check-ins and Utilizing Collaboration Tools
10:45 Creating Personal Connections in Remote Teams
12:03 Conclusion and Call for Feedback
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Before you go:
Case examples for LEAD NEXT Podcast - Submit your case example! In each podcast episode we discuss one leadership situation. I'd love to hear from you if you have any challenging situations that you would like me to address in an episode. Submit your suggestions through this form!
Mentioned in this episode:
I created a free cheat sheet packed with scripts, words and sentences to use in the most tricky feedback situations, like giving feedback to a new hire or to someone who thinks they are the best performer ever, but actually have some serious things to work on. Make sure you grab this right away through this link, so you can keep it at hand whenever you face any of these situations.
Say It Right

Improving Communication Skills in Tech Teams
In this episode, we tackle the issue of poor communication skills within a tech team, focusing on how to address these challenges without making team members feel uncomfortable or discouraged. We share the story of Carlo, a leader at a tech startup in Manila, who notices that his developer, Anh from Vietnam, is great at coding but struggles with expressing her ideas clearly during meetings.
We discuss strategies that Carlo can use to help Anh improve her communication. This includes giving direct yet sensitive feedback, pairing her with a communication buddy, using online tools to enhance skills, and incorporating practical exercises during meetings. We also emphasize the importance of providing support and constructive feedback to encourage personal development and better teamwork.
00:00 Navigating Communication Challenges in Tech Teams
01:18 Constructive Feedback: A Delicate Balance
02:41 Practical Solutions for Enhancing Communication Skills
05:04 The Power of Preparation and Practice
06:35 Fostering a Supportive Team Environment
09:00 Key Takeaways for Effective Communication
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Before you go:
Case examples for LEAD NEXT Podcast - Submit your case example! In each podcast episode we discuss one leadership situation. I'd love to hear from you if you have any challenging situations that you would like me to address in an episode. Submit your suggestions through this form!
Mentioned in this episode:
I made a free checklist that lays out all the steps in how to prepare well if you’re giving feedback to someone. I don’t have to tell you that being well prepared makes all the difference. So go ahead and download this simple one-pager for free from this link.
Prep Like A Pro

Navigating Cultural Miscommunication in Global Teams
In this episode, we address the challenge of cultural miscommunication within a diverse software development team in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. We look at a situation involving Siti, the team leader, and Wei Ling, a new team member from Beijing. Despite Wei Ling’s valuable input, her feedback is often misinterpreted due to differences in communication styles rooted in personal backgrounds.
We explore strategies for Siti to manage these issues effectively. We stress the importance of assuming positive intent and understanding the cultural nuances that influence individual communication styles. We also discuss fostering an environment where team members feel encouraged to express their communication preferences.
Further, we talk about practical methods like creating personal communication preference plans, using multiple communication forms beyond verbal exchanges, and considering tools like translators and interpreters to enhance understanding and teamwork in multicultural settings.
00:00 Introduction to Leadership Challenges
00:24 The Case of Cultural Miscommunication
01:02 Exploring Solutions for Effective Communication
01:33 Understanding Cultural and Personal Differences
02:19 Strategies for Building a Thriving Multicultural Team
03:36 The Importance of Assuming Positive Intent
04:48 Creating a Personal Communication Preference Plan
05:49 Leadership Mindset for Multicultural Teams
06:52 Innovative Communication Methods in Multicultural Settings
08:26 Leveraging Technology for Better Communication
09:19 Feedback and Experimentation for Improvement
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Before you go:
Case examples for LEAD NEXT Podcast - Submit your case example! In each podcast episode we discuss one leadership situation. I'd love to hear from you if you have any challenging situations that you would like me to address in an episode. Submit your suggestions through this form!
Mentioned in this episode:
I created a free cheat sheet packed with scripts, words and sentences to use in the most tricky feedback situations, like giving feedback to a new hire or to someone who thinks they are the best performer ever, but actually have some serious things to work on. Make sure you grab this right away through this link, so you can keep it at hand whenever you face any of these situations.
Say It Right

Navigating Team Burnout: A Leadership Strategy
In this episode, we tackle the issue of burnout within high-performing teams. We focus on Priya, a project manager in Bangalore, and her team member, Arjun, who is showing signs of burnout like missing deadlines and disengagement.
We emphasize the importance of creating a safe, open space for honest conversations between managers and their team members. It’s crucial to start with broad questions, then get more specific, allowing team members to share their struggles without fear of impacting their job status. We guide managers on how to begin these supportive discussions, focusing on understanding the team member's situation, exploring solutions together, and committing to ongoing support to prevent burnout.
Additionally, we discuss the importance of using resources like HR for guidance in managing such sensitive issues effectively.
00:00 Introduction to Addressing Burnout in High Performers
00:30 The Case of Arjun: Recognizing Burnout
01:12 Strategies for Managers: Preventing and Addressing Burnout
02:35 Initiating the Conversation: Techniques and Approaches
03:43 Creating a Safe Space and Asking the Right Questions
04:56 Navigating the Conversation: From General to Specific
08:11 Problem Solving and Planning for Recovery
10:46 Seeking External Support and Guidance
11:45 General Advice for Managers on Regular Check-ins
12:55 Conclusion and Call to Action
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Before you go:
Case examples for LEAD NEXT Podcast - Submit your case example! In each podcast episode we discuss one leadership situation. I'd love to hear from you if you have any challenging situations that you would like me to address in an episode. Submit your suggestions through this form!
Mentioned in this episode:
I made a free checklist that lays out all the steps in how to prepare well if you’re giving feedback to someone. I don’t have to tell you that being well prepared makes all the difference. So go ahead and download this simple one-pager for free from this link.
Prep Like A Pro