The lack of purpose at work can significantly impact morale, productivity, and retention, ultimately affecting business success. By aligning company values with personal beliefs, leaders can nurture a culture of loyalty and purpose. In episode 17 of the Leaders People Love series, Aaron Chen, a Technopreneur Farmer, emphasizes the importance of taking risks and learning... Continue Reading →
36: Founder and CEO of Backscoop Amanda Cua, on Shattering Self-Limiting Beliefs and Designing the Perfect Career
Opting for an unconventional career path can trigger uncertainty insecurity, and pressure from societal expectations. But it enables us to create a customized career trajectory that resonates with our values, passions, and aspirations leading to long-term fulfillment in our careers.In episode 16 of the Leaders People Love series, Amanda Cua, the founder and CEO of... Continue Reading →
This career race to become a manager ignores the value of specialists
This article first appeared in The Straits Times Take a deep look at yourself and know what makes you tick. “Hey, have you heard the news? Sam, our neighbour’s son, was promoted to manager last week! So when’s your turn?” Deeply ingrained in our “kiasu” culture, the urge to compare is irresistible. From our test... Continue Reading →
It’s not just junior staff, CEOs and directors are also afraid to fail
The fear of failure is pervasive in schools and workplaces. Good leadership can help people overcome it. This article first appeared in The Straits Times Audrey, a chief financial officer, rock-solid and confident in front of her team, gets paralysed by the fear of speaking at the board meeting. She wonders if she is competent... Continue Reading →
35: Learning and Development Professional, Sneha Govind on Transparent Communication in Times of Rapid Change
Inadequate workplace communication, especially during times of change, fosters an atmosphere of uncertainty that gradually undermines trust. To avert this, it is crucial to offer transparent and sincere explanations of the changes, ensuring effective communication of their implications and expectations. In episode 15 of the Leaders People Love series, Sneha Govind, a Learning and Development... Continue Reading →
Solving the mystery of the miserable middle management
Too much is heaped on middle managers, with too little support. The irony is that if companies try to reduce their workload, they start to worry. This article first appeared in The Straits Times Ask a child to name something that starts with the letter M and you might get McDonald’s – their definition of... Continue Reading →
34: Professor Viknesh Andiappan on Fear of Failure
In a success-centric landscape, the fear of failure permeates, stifling innovation. Leaders can counter this by fostering a culture of openness and sharing their setbacks to humanize success. A supportive environment is crucial for breaking down the stigma surrounding setbacks and cultivating a healthier attitude towards taking risks. In episode 14 of the Leaders People... Continue Reading →
33: CEO of Lunch Actually, Violet Lim on Fostering a Fun Workplace Culture
Creating a fun work culture can be challenging for some leaders who prioritize productivity over enjoyment. Yet, neglecting it can result in higher burnout rates. That is precisely why leaders should establish a culture that enhances creativity, strengthens team dynamics, and contributes to employee well-being. In episode 13 of the Leaders People Love series, Violet... Continue Reading →
32: Learning and Development Professional Ian Choo on Middle Managers Being the Conduit
Misalignment of goals and communication filters are some of the problems that can occur when there's a gap between top leaders and employees on the ground. This is where middle managers step in to be the conduit between top and ground, to build a harmonious ecosystem within the organization. In episode 12 of the Leaders... Continue Reading →
31: Associate Director for Alumni and Careers, Shinn Teo on Remembering to be Human
Leaders who neglect to pause, reflect, and empathize may struggle to understand their team's challenges and concerns, leading to communication breakdowns and a lack of trust. By fostering a culture of empathy, leaders can increase engagement, build trust, and enhance team performance. In episode 11 of the Leaders People Love series, Shinn Teo, Associate Director... Continue Reading →