Susan Chaplin | Being a Strategic Leader in Today's Environment

Having a well-defined plan is essential for achieving your goals. However, in today’s complex workplace, setting realistic long-term goals can be challenging.

In this episode, I sit down with human resource expert Susan Chaplin to discuss how to develop strategic leadership skills. Tune in to gain valuable insights from her expertise!

Susan Chaplin’s Background

• Susan is a seasoned HR executive with over 20 years of experience in retail, healthcare, and customer service. 

• Starting from her initial work with Best Buy, Susan has navigated through various roles and industries, each shaping her strategic acumen.

• Her transition from retail to the healthcare sector highlights her commitment to continuous learning and growth.

Defining Strategic Leadership

• Susan believes strategic leadership involves understanding your environment and team.

• She advocates for thorough analysis, such as SWOT assessments, to gain a nuanced perspective of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. 

• This analytical approach ensures that leaders are proactive and sustainable business growth.

Building a Strategic Mindset

• Susan shares how new leaders can create a strategic mindset:

• Learn from Mistakes: Use errors as learning opportunities. 

• Understand Your Team: Know what drives your team to maintain balance and productivity.

• Engage in Continuous Learning: Stay updated with external factors like AI developments, economic shifts, and generational dynamics.

The Importance of Emotional Intelligence

• Susan believes in bringing one's whole self to work, fostering a genuine and authentic work environment. 

• By recognizing and adapting to the emotional needs of the team, leaders can create a supportive and motivating atmosphere.

 "And then these generational gaps where you've got what are considered boomers versus millennials, Gen Xers, truly understanding how all of those things play together and have an impact on your business." - Susan Chaplin.

Resources

Susan Chaplin on LinkedIn

If this episode connected with you, reach out to Linda and let her know. 

This podcast is produced by TSE Studios. Check out other podcasts by TSE Studios, including this episode’s sponsor, The Sales Evangelist, helping new and struggling sellers close more deals and achieve their sales goals.

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Audio created by Ryan Rasmussen Productions.