The Workplace Therapist Show Brandon Smith

After the Georgia governor lifted the COVID-19 shelter in place order in May, Jackson Healthcare President, Shane Jackson and his leadership team began putting in place protocols to get the company’s employees back in the office in a safe way. From changing cleaning procedures, cafeteria guidelines and elevator logistics, Jackson Healthcare had countless considerations to make before re-opening its doors. Jackson describes the importance of transparency, about motives and allowing people time to consume the decisions made has been crucial. With so much difficulty in getting people back in the office, Jackson says others told him not to bother. Jackson believes it is important as a leader to have in-person work available for the company because of the mental toll working alone can have on people. Jackson says, “I believe at a minimum one of the kindest things I can do for our associates right now is to provide a safe place for them to socialize and collaborate with their colleagues. Working from home alone made me realize how much I missed people; I didn’t realize what it was doing to me and I’ve had associates tell me the same thing. There is power in being together.” Jackson concludes the ultimate decision of whether a company should go back in person depends on “knowing your people and knowing what’s best for them and the business.” Jackson’s tip for building better conversations and better relationships? “I don’t think you can be present with someone with a phone in your hand.”
 

On this week’s episode Brandon has a conversation with author, consultant, and host of the Badass Women at Any Age Podcast, Bonnie Marcus. They discuss the ways in which any employee should engage in their organization’s politics, and how women are uniquely challenged in getting ahead in the workplace. Bonnie emphasizes that “playing politics” is really about creating relationships where others understand your values, trust you, and are willing to be your champion. Brandon and Bonnie discuss the adage that  “the three most important conversations about your career happen when you’re not in the room” and what you can do to make sure the outcomes are in your favor.  In order to do this well, one must be a pro at self-advocating? Bonnie emphasizes that everyone, especially women, need to understand how to do it in a way that’s authentic and effective and clearly demonstrates how their work leads to positive business outcomes for their organization.

Ever wonder what top leader-coaches say to their teams that other leaders don’t? My guest, Bill Eckstrom did. After thousands of studies, he ID’d 4 behaviors that separate the good from the great. It’s a fantastic conversation: listen in!

Feeling anxious? You’re not the only one these days. Wondering how to cope well and get through these unprecedented times like a champ? My guest, Licensed Counselor Mazi Robinson, offers some great insight and ideas we can do today to make it better.

“How do I keep my team motivated?” This is the most commonly asked question that I’ve gotten recently and the focus of our show this week! Whether your team is virtual or a front-lines-in-person essential service, keeping them motivated these days is especially challenging. Listen in for some great tips and tricks!

Today’s podcast is one I recorded with Jeff Myers, Senior Pastor of Roswell Presbyterian Church the week before the pandemic struck. Though the world has changed, the tenets of great leadership have not. Jeff and I discuss how great leaders relate to their audience, train up their people, and provide a non-anxious presence. It’s a great conversation; I hope you’ll listen in!