What happens when you blend the precision of engineering with the fluidity of economics and leadership? This episode introduces you to Morag Barrett, who shares her extraordinary love of puzzles to the complexities of economics and organizational development. Together, we explore how networking and building genuine connections have shaped her leadership journey. Amidst the serious discussions, we share a lighthearted chat about our mutual love for coffee and tea, pondering the significance of a perfectly fitting mug. Morag’s insights remind us that leadership is a zig-zagged journey filled with varied experiences, not a straight path.
Discover the transformative power of connection in leadership. Reflecting on her early banking career, Morag realized the true challenge was in the realm of interpersonal dynamics rather than mere technical prowess. This realization spurred the creation of Sky Team, a company focused on fostering cultures of connection in workplaces often marred by stress and burnout, particularly among middle managers. We offer practical advice for middle managers to navigate their roles more effectively, emphasizing the importance of aligning actions with personal values to reduce friction and enhance job satisfaction.
Explore the emotional waves that ripple through teams and how leaders can harness this energy for success. From recognizing the contagious nature of emotions to creating environments that allow genuine expression, we delve into the concept of "collective effervescence." The SPIRIT of Acknowledgement framework was used to recognize Morag's colleagues at Skye Team. We discuss the dangers of false positivity and the importance of timely recognition, touching on how practices like "ripples and joys" can reinforce connection and engagement. Join us to uncover how these insights can inspire and invigorate your leadership journey.