This Is NOT What I Signed Up For

Ross Saunders
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  • MANAGEMENT
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A survival-guide podcast for the new or first-time manager, having been promoted from technical specialist to leading people. Teaching you how to swim, so you don't sink!

  1. Recognition is a Superpower

    OCT 22

    Recognition is a Superpower

    In this episode, Ross speaks with recognition expert Sarah McVanel about the critical role of recognition in leadership and team dynamics. They explore how effective recognition can enhance employee engagement, foster a positive work culture, and ultimately improve retention rates. Sarah shares insights on different types of recognition, the importance of understanding individual preferences, and practical tips for implementing recognition programs in teams. The conversation emphasizes that recognition is not merely about performance metrics but about valuing individuals and creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Takeaways Recognition is a superpower for leaders.Connection within teams is essential for effective leadership.Recognition should be sincere and specific.Different individuals prefer different types of recognition.You don't need a budget to implement recognition strategies.Creating a recognition-rich culture can improve employee retention.Recognition should focus on effort, not just outcomes.Leaders should ask their teams how they prefer to be recognized.Surprise recognition can be more impactful than expected recognition.Recognition is a signal of what matters in an organization's culture.About Sarah Sarah is a recognition expert, professional speaker, coach, author, recovering perfectionist, and movement maker. She created F.R.O.G. Forever Recognize Others’ Greatness to invigorate companies so they can see their people as exceptional and, together, create a scrumptious, thriving culture where everyone belongs. Sarah has 25+ years of experience training, coaching, and leading teams. From her senior leadership role, she founded her boutique firm Greatness Magnified. Proclaimed as the “Frog Lady,” she can be found freaking out perfect strangers (in a good way) by handing out squishy frogs and asking them, “Have you been frogged lately?” and then acknowledging their greatness. She’s a Certified Senior Organizational Development Professional (CSODP), Professional Certified Coach (PCC), and Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL). She is one of 1500 Certified Speaking Professionals (CSP) worldwide. She has a BA in Psychology, MSc in Family Relations, and Diplomas in Human Resources and Healthcare Administration. https://www.greatnessmagnified.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahmcvanel/ About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    37 min
  2. Mastering Presentation Skills

    OCT 1

    Mastering Presentation Skills

    In this episode, Ross interviews Chris Graham, a communication expert, about the essential presentation skills that new managers need to develop. They discuss the importance of feedback, the transition from technical roles to management, and the significance of connecting with an audience. Chris emphasizes the dangers of 'death by PowerPoint' and the value of humor in presentations. He also shares insights on managing filler words and the importance of being genuine in communication. Takeaways Feedback is crucial for effective management.Presentation skills are essential for new managers.Connecting with your audience is key to effective communication.Death by PowerPoint can shatter audience unity.Humor can enhance presentations if it fits your personality.Filler words are a normal part of conversation.The audience doesn't know your script, so don't panic if you miss a point.Be sincere and honest in your presentations.Your role is to serve the audience, not the other way around.About Chris Chris Graham teaches lawyers and other professionals how to connect with their clients and teams. Since 2016, he’s trained over 15,000 people at North America’s leading law firms, large and small companies, government agencies, and charities. In 2022, Chris was Head of Speaker Coaching at TEDxToronto, Canada’s largest TEDx event. Prior to founding TellPeople, Chris worked at one the world’s top banking law firms (Sullivan & Cromwell LLP) and one of Canada’s top Indigenous rights law firms (Pape & Salter LLP). He studied at Oxford University, University of Toronto Law School, and Acadia University, and is a graduate of the stand-up comedy program at The Second City in Toronto. https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-graham-tellpeople/ About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    30 min
  3. Managing Change

    AUG 13

    Managing Change

    In this episode, Ross and Michele de Kreek discuss the critical role of change management for new managers. They explore the importance of understanding human behavior in the context of organizational change, the necessity of leadership alignment, and the significance of communication in facilitating change. Michele emphasizes that resistance to change is natural and can be transformed into positive energy. The conversation also highlights when new managers should seek external help for change management and the evolving nature of change in today's fast-paced environment. Takeaways Change management is about moving people from an as-is to a to-be state.Understanding human behavior is crucial in change management.Resistance is natural and indicates energy in the system.Leadership alignment is essential for engaged employees.Transparent communication helps address fears and resistance.Vulnerability in leadership fosters trust and safety.Change management should be seen as a strategic enabler.Change is not just a project; it's an ongoing process.The pace of change is accelerating in today's organizations.About Michele: Michele specializes in holistic transformation programs. As Director of Up Time consulting, the focus is on driving people-first strategies, combining expertise in project change management, strategy, and leadership coaching to deliver impactful organizational outcomes, with a strong commitment to innovation and excellence in change management. https://up-time.co.za About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. https://linktr.ee/rossgsaunders Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    26 min
  4. Personal Branding for Professional Success

    JUL 30

    Personal Branding for Professional Success

    In this episode, Ross interviews Randall Craig, a seasoned entrepreneur and CEO, about the importance of personal branding for professional success. They discuss the definition of personal branding, the significance of authenticity, and how to build trust in professional relationships. Randall shares insights on navigating the balance between personal and professional brands, emphasizing the need for consistency and authenticity in one's actions. The conversation concludes with strategies for long-term brand building and the importance of being true to oneself in all professional interactions. Takeaways Personal brand is what people say about you behind your back.Your brand is a combination of what people see, how you act, and what you represent.Authenticity is key to a strong personal brand.Trust is built through consistent interactions and relationships.Every touchpoint can either build or diminish trust.Long-term brand building requires consistent performance.Writing and reflecting on experiences can help solidify your brand.About Randall: Randall Craig has founded several successful start-ups, held a long-time position at a “big-four” consulting firm, and was a senior executive at an American public company.  Randall is currently the CEO of the Braintrust Professional Institute, where he helps organizations build, grow, and solve some of their most challenging problems. https://braintrustprofessionalinstitute.com/ https://randallcraig.com/ About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. https://linktr.ee/rossgsaunders Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    29 min
  5. The Power of KPI's and OKR's

    JUL 16

    The Power of KPI's and OKR's

    In this episode, Ross interviews Gary Meyer, a partner at Attention, discussing the challenges new managers face around KPIs and OKRs. Gary shares insights from his own management journey, emphasizing the importance of aligning KPIs with business objectives and the potential pitfalls of poorly defined metrics. The conversation explores how new managers can implement effective goal-setting strategies, even in environments lacking clear direction, and highlights the significance of collaboration in achieving team objectives. Takeaways Management often lacks formal training, leading to self-taught experiences.KPIs can feel arbitrary and disconnected from actual business goals.A significant portion of employees may disregard KPIs altogether.OKRs provide a framework for aligning team efforts with business objectives.Effective management requires clear communication of goals from the top down.Binary objectives are essential for measuring success accurately.Many companies fail to communicate their objectives effectively to all levels.Tools for managing OKRs and KPIs are readily available and affordable.New managers should actively engage in defining their KPIs with their teams.Documenting processes helps managers protect their interests and clarify objectives.About Gary Having started in the marketing industry 20 years ago, Gary Meyer has a reputation for pushing the envelope through creative and digital strategy. He displays leadership through a unique lens - making an impact based on the unexpected. Never taking the easy route means Gary has been successful during key strategic moments throughout his career, including building a 30+ strong agency from the humble starting grounds of his dining room table. His ability to make objective key decisions for his business and clients alike, led to his recognition at the African Independents Awards 40 under 40 list, and has supported the revenue growth for clients across the globe such as Nespresso, Panasonic , TATA Motors, Virgin Atlantic, and Heineken. During his appointment as Senior Vice President and Head of Digital at Proof Strategies in Toronto Canada, Gary drove the digital marketing strategy for Canadian Red Cross, Webber Naturals, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, and Loblaw (PC Health). https://attentionstrategy.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/garymeyerza/ About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. https://linktr.ee/rossgsaunders Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    26 min
  6. Onboarding to Foreverboarding

    MAY 21

    Onboarding to Foreverboarding

    In this episode, Ross Saunders speaks with Marc Haine about the concept of 'Forever Boarding' as a transformative approach to employee engagement. They discuss the shortcomings of traditional onboarding processes, the importance of ongoing support and communication, and the need for managers to evolve into coaching roles. Marc emphasizes the significance of understanding employee journeys, recognizing disengagement, and fostering a sense of community within organizations to enhance workplace culture and retention. Takeaways People stay because they feel seen, heard, and valued.Onboarding should be an ongoing process, not a finite one.Employees evolve, and so should our management approach.Engaged participants can become ambassadors for the organization.Managers should focus on coaching rather than just managing.Regular communication is crucial for team dynamics.Curiosity and service should guide management practices.Creating a sense of community reduces interpersonal conflicts.Accountability to each other enhances workplace culture.About Marc: With over 35 years of experience in hospitality and service-based industries, Marc Haine knows one thing for sure: people don’t stay because of perks—they stay because they feel seen, heard, and valued. As a keynote speaker and membership engagement strategist, Marc helps organizations and associations turn casual participants into committed ambassadors. Marc is the author of Lights! Camera! Action! and host of the podcast Marc Haine Live, where he empowers leaders to rethink how they build connection—from the inside out. His work blends storytelling, humour, and actionable strategy to help teams ignite engagement, elevate culture, and build lasting loyalty. Marc works with organizations to strengthen engagement, boost retention, and create transformative experiences that stick. Whether it’s for team leaders, business owners, or association executives, Marc delivers insights that shift perspective—and strategies that stick. https://meetwith.marchaine.com https://www.facebook.com/MasterofExperiences https://instagram.com/MarcJLHaine https://www.linkedin.com/in/marchaine/ https://www.MarcHaineLive.com About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. https://linktr.ee/rossgsaunders Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    33 min
  7. Navigating Nonprofit Leadership

    MAY 7

    Navigating Nonprofit Leadership

    In this episode, Ross Saunders speaks with Vivian Lee, Director of Education and Strategy for ODLAN, about the unique challenges and strategies in nonprofit leadership. They discuss the importance of diverse teams, the impact of funding cycles, and the necessity of understanding political landscapes. Vivian shares insights on building a positive workplace culture and effective management practices for new leaders, emphasizing the importance of communication and appreciation. The conversation also highlights ODLAN's mission to support LGBTQIA+ communities through digital literacy and safety programs. Takeaways Diverse teams enhance problem-solving and creativity.Understanding the grant cycle is crucial for nonprofit sustainability.Political changes can significantly impact nonprofit funding.Consistent communication fosters trust and team cohesion.Positive reinforcement should be amplified in management.Building relationships is key to a healthy workplace culture.New managers should prioritize knowing their team members.Empathy and authenticity are vital in leadership.About Vivian Vivian is Director of Education and Strategy for ODLAN, the Open Digital Literacy and Access Network. She is an Education Management Specialist and is Skilled in Integrated Technology Education, Curriculum Development, Educational Policy, and Executive Management. She is actively working through a Doctorate in Educational Policy on Digital Citizenship Curriculum Policy at the University of Toronto, and holds a Masters of Education focused in ESL Education from Temple University Japan. www.odlan.ca About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    28 min
  8. The How of Hiring

    MAR 19

    The How of Hiring

    In this episode of 'This Is Not What I Signed Up For', Ross Saunders shares his insights on the hiring process, emphasizing the importance of finding 'A players' for management roles. He discusses the top grading methodology, the significance of resume evaluation, screening interviews, technical interviews, and the importance of reference checks. Ross provides practical tips and personal anecdotes to help new managers navigate the complexities of hiring effectively. Takeaways Resume evaluation is crucial for assessing attention to detail.Screening interviews should focus on career goals and fit.Technical interviews should assess both hard and soft skills.Understanding a candidate's past experiences is vital.Performance management is key before considering termination.Reference checks should involve direct hiring managers.Hiring A players makes management easier and more effective.About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    27 min
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A survival-guide podcast for the new or first-time manager, having been promoted from technical specialist to leading people. Teaching you how to swim, so you don't sink!

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