Great Manager Newsletter - Feb 28, 2024
Redefine Ambition
On this date in 1953, the DNA-molecule was discovered using sophisticated x-ray methods. This molecule is so complex that - 70 years later - we are still trying to learn about it and how we can improve humanity.
Fortunately, managing people isn’t quite as hard as working with DNA. Although, at times it feels like we’ve made less progress in management theory than we have in DNA science.
This community is changing that.
Let’s get started.
1 Big Thing
Redefine Ambitious
What defines an ambitious worker? For far too long, we’ve only had one answer to that question: somebody single-mindedly dedicated to climbing the career ladder. But that model of ambition arose when professionals were typically men supported by women at home. Women today are integral to the workforce, but because they still disproportionately shoulder demands at home, they can’t always focus single-mindedly on climbing the ladder — and so are assumed not to be ambitious. That explains the problematic lack of women in positions of senior leadership today. For everybody’s benefit, the authors argue, it’s time for a new model of ambition — one that takes women’s perspective into account and puts a new emphasis on growth rather than time.
Watch This
Why Good Employees Quit
This video provides 5 reasons why companies in general lose good employees. If you've been wondering "why good employees quit", "good employees leave bad managers", "employees quit managers not companies" then this video is for you!
By the Numbers
15%
Employees who feel like they use their best strengths and abilities at work are 15% less likely to quit their job.
Why it Matters… Beyond the obvious fact it builds retention, it shows that a manager has to be aware of their strengths. That takes building a relationship and focusing on their development.
Words of Wisdom
"Talent is helpful but success really comes from determination. Being able to keep going even when you face big challenges is what sets people apart. This happens in a wide variety of fields, like writing, art, sports, new businesses, etc. Even if others may initially have more talent than you, if they cannot face the fact that success is rarely immediate, they will stop working towards their goal. Be aware that the perception of others having more talent than you is probably imposter syndrome playing tricks on your mind. Even if you are not the best at something, if you apply determination, you will eventually develop a great level of skill. Skill that emerges from dedicated practice often surpasses uncultivated talent."
― Yung Pueblo, The Power of Determination
Discussion Topics
How do you stay connected with the front-line experiences of your team members?
On Feb 28 at 6 pm (Central Time), I will be doing a LinkedIn Live titled - Management is Broken - What Managers Need to do to Fix Things. Please feel free to join me here.
I’m also focusing on adding content to the Paid Subscription site, so if you want even more of the great quality content and helpful resources, consider joining.
Have a great week.