How to get what you need at work
Digest
This podcast episode delves into a listener's workplace dilemma, where she feels a decrease in her influence and a disconnect with leadership. The hosts guide her through reframing the problem as a need for help rather than a critique, encouraging her to be vulnerable and ask for specific support. They emphasize the importance of coachability and creating a safe space for feedback, highlighting the potential pitfalls of unsolicited advice. Through role-playing, they demonstrate effective communication strategies for approaching leadership and navigating challenging workplace dynamics.
Outlines
Addressing Workplace Influence: A Listener's Dilemma
The episode begins with a listener, Ellie, sharing her experience of feeling a decrease in her influence at work, characterized by a shrinking scope of responsibility, lack of engagement from leadership, and conflicting feedback.
Reframing the Problem and Seeking Help
The hosts suggest reframing Ellie's problem as a need for help rather than a critique of leadership. They encourage her to focus on her own needs and ask for support in achieving her goals.
Role-Playing and Finding Solutions
The hosts engage in role-playing to demonstrate how Ellie can approach her leadership team. They emphasize the importance of vulnerability, humility, and asking for specific help.
Unsolicited Advice and Coachability
The hosts discuss the art of giving unsolicited advice and the importance of pacing and timing. They emphasize the need for leaders to be coachable and to create a safe space for feedback.
Keywords
Unsolicited Advice
Advice given without being asked for. It can be helpful but can also be unwelcome or perceived as criticism. It's important to consider the recipient's receptiveness and timing.
Coachability
The willingness and ability to receive feedback and guidance from others. It involves being open to learning, accepting criticism constructively, and making adjustments based on feedback.
Vulnerability
The state of being open and honest about one's feelings, needs, and weaknesses. It requires courage and trust but can lead to stronger relationships and better communication.
Influence
The ability to affect the thoughts, feelings, or actions of others. It can be based on authority, expertise, charisma, or relationships.
Q&A
What are some key takeaways for leaders from this conversation?
Leaders should be mindful of the pacing and timing of their feedback, recognizing that unsolicited advice can be risky. They should also strive to be coachable and create a safe space for employees to share their needs and concerns.
How can employees effectively address a perceived decrease in influence at work?
Employees should focus on their own needs and goals, reframing the situation as a request for help rather than a critique. They should be vulnerable and ask for specific support from their leadership team.
What is the importance of vulnerability in workplace communication?
Vulnerability allows for open and honest communication, fostering trust and understanding. It can help employees feel heard and supported, leading to better relationships and problem-solving.
Show Notes
This week, Anne and Frances are back in the hot seat to help a listener tackle a common workplace problem: having less influence than we think we deserve. But how can you get more people to listen to your ideas? And figure out what’s getting in the way? Their advice offers valuable insights for anyone feeling stuck in their career – and gives you tools and inspiration to ask for what you need in your own workplace.
What problems are you dealing with at work right now? Call or text 234-FIXABLE or email fixable@ted.com to be featured on the show.
Table of contents
United States
