Build the Culture
Make others feel safe and seen.
Dear FitRich,
When was the last time you felt safe and seen at work?
“Why didn’t you think it through?” “How can you not think about it?” “Have you ever tried to understand the foundation before proposing?” said Frank, the QA engineer at work.
When I looked back, there were moments when I didn’t dare to say much. I felt like for whatever I said, my senior might pick my blindspots to say how incompetent I was.
I became quieter and fearful, unsure how long I could survive in this company.
When I changed to this new company and met my new boss, I heard a different language.
“Do you have anything you don’t understand?” “How do you feel about your first week?” “Any difficulties you are struggling with lately?” said Mark, my new boss.
Some bosses will care about your feelings, not just your work.
In this Serving September, we discussed “How to become a leader who inspires others and creates results?”.
Why is the month named “Serving” over “Soliciting”? People used to think leadership is about giving commands, supervising performance and punishing for mistakes. In the 20th century, this army-like approach could no longer win others’ hearts.
As more people talk about self-identities and personal branding, they seek ownership, purpose and recognition. If you command others like a soldier, you push them away instead of bringing them closer.
You want people to follow you not because they get paid, but because they genuinely feel respected, enlightened and valued when working with you.
People want to be where they feel safe and seen.
When they feel safe, they are more willing to show their true self.
When they feel seen, they are more driven to contribute.
More companies are adopting “Servant Leadership” now. Servant leadership means a leader who serves people, not people serving her/him. According to McKinsey, these are the traits of a servant leader:
Shape a clear purpose in line with subordinates and stakeholders.
Encourage people to collaborate.
Appear as an authentic self.
During my presidential term in a public speaking club, I did a workshop with my executive committee. I shared my visions towards the club and asked for feedback. Instead of speaking for 2 hours by myself, I threw a question and asked each squad to brainstorm solutions for a problem. It provokes thinking, fosters ownership and boosts engagement. People want to express themselves and be heard, so give them the chance!
In the end, my teams gave great ideas! The Public Relations Team suggested opening a LinkedIn account for more exposure to corporates, the Education Team proposed evaluating meetings to improve qualities, and the Guest Relations Team said showing a QR code for guests to scan and follow our social media channels.
When the ideas come from others, others are more willing to drive them.
I also told my co-workers it was my first time leading a team and I was always open to opinions. Very often, people think “Leader can’t be wrong. Leaders must be strong. Leaders shout like a King Kong.” The truth is, a leader is a human too 😂 He/ she is also learning along the way. The key isn’t to hold a high ego and figure everything by yourself. Instead, leverage team power. Consult your subordinates, appreciate their ideas, and get good solutions. You would be surprised how much a group can do together! Teamwork makes the dream work.
Foster a place where people feel safe and seen.
What is more, do something beyond work with your team. When I visit my bosses’ homes, I feel closer to them. I play with their kids, have fun with board games and enjoy great food. Leadership is not made by organisation chart but by connection. When you bond with your subordinates personally, work becomes easier. Till today, part of the reason why I want to work better is to alleviate my bosses’ workload. They are good humans and I want to make their lives easier.
Foster a place where people feel safe and seen with these 3S:
Share co-created purposes
Show true self
Set collaborative culture
Next week, we talk about making good decisions. A leader is a role where you decide A LOT for the team. You are responsible for each decision.
How can you make quality decisions fast? Let’s tap into the challenge together!
A question for you: What was your favourite team’s project? Why did you enjoy it?
Share with me by replying to this email😉
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Serve well,
Ruby