Knowledge is Power
Welcome to the 102nd edition of “In Touch”. As always, I would love to continue the conversation so please hit reply and let me know what you think.
Story of the Week: “Knowledge is Power”
During a recent presentation at Metlen Energy & Metals in Athens, one of the speakers said that Amazon knows you better than your own company does, even though you might only interact with Amazon for two or three minutes a week.
It didn’t take long for me to conclude that he was absolutely right.
Through its algorithms, Amazon uses the smallest details of your preferences, your habits and your needs to create a picture of who you are. On the other hand, many companies and organisations may spend years with their people and still fail to truly see, know and understand them. Of course, workplace relationships aren’t algorithmic — they’re meant to be authentic. Yet, without paying attention to our people and caring for them, we risk losing that connection.
When it was my turn to take the stage, I proposed a gamification remedy for this. Drawing on the work of Amy Edmondson, Professor of Leadership and Management at the Harvard Business School, I introduced six simple yet profound questions, designed to help leaders foster psychological safety in the workplace and better understand their teams. These questions are not mine — they were formulated by leadership development expert and author Jean Marie DiGiovanna — but I’ve found them invaluable in my work with teams and organisations. Here they are:
- What’s the thing I do that’s detracting from our success?
- What’s the thing you see me doing that’s helping me best contribute to the team?
- What’s one thing do I need to know about you that will improve our relationship?
- What’s one thing you need from me that will enable you to be successful?
- What’s one gift, skill, or talent you have that I’ve overlooked, undervalued or underutilized?
- What motivates you and how can we bring more of that to your work?
These questions are a gateway to creating a team dynamic where individuals feel seen, heard and valued. For this to work, the environment must be psychologically safe — a place where people can express themselves openly and honestly. By asking them, you will not only bring about greater collaboration but you will also gain a deeper understanding of the people you work with every day.
In a world where technology is paying attention to our every action, it’s up to us as leaders to nurture genuine relationships. Start with these six questions. They’re simple, effective and, most importantly, authentic.
Words of Wisdom
“The wise prevail through great power, and those who have knowledge muster their strength.” Proverbs 24:5
A Question to Ponder, dear friend.
How well do you know each individual member of your team? Does Amazon know more?
I would love to hear from you.
