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A tartalmat a Andy Lopata and Evergreen Podcasts biztosítja. Az összes podcast-tartalmat, beleértve az epizódokat, grafikákat és podcast-leírásokat, közvetlenül a Andy Lopata and Evergreen Podcasts vagy a podcast platform partnere tölti fel és biztosítja. Ha úgy gondolja, hogy valaki az Ön engedélye nélkül használja fel a szerzői joggal védett művét, kövesse az itt leírt folyamatot https://hu.player.fm/legal.
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Matt Deseno is the founder of multiple award winning marketing businesses ranging from a attraction marketing to AI appointment setting to customer user experience. When he’s not working on the businesses he teaches marketing at Pepperdine University and he also teaches other marketing agency owners how they created a software company to triple the profitability for the agency. Our Sponsors: * Check out Kinsta: https://kinsta.com * Check out Mint Mobile: https://mintmobile.com/tmf * Check out Moorings: https://moorings.com * Check out Trust & Will: https://trustandwill.com/TRAVIS * Check out Warby Parker: https://warbyparker.com/travis Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy…
The Connected Leadership Podcast
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A tartalmat a Andy Lopata and Evergreen Podcasts biztosítja. Az összes podcast-tartalmat, beleértve az epizódokat, grafikákat és podcast-leírásokat, közvetlenül a Andy Lopata and Evergreen Podcasts vagy a podcast platform partnere tölti fel és biztosítja. Ha úgy gondolja, hogy valaki az Ön engedélye nélkül használja fel a szerzői joggal védett művét, kövesse az itt leírt folyamatot https://hu.player.fm/legal.
Speaker and author on professional relationships, Andy Lopata, explores great connections with experts and high achievers worldwide.
…
continue reading
177 epizódok
Mind megjelölése nem lejátszottként
Manage series 1221160
A tartalmat a Andy Lopata and Evergreen Podcasts biztosítja. Az összes podcast-tartalmat, beleértve az epizódokat, grafikákat és podcast-leírásokat, közvetlenül a Andy Lopata and Evergreen Podcasts vagy a podcast platform partnere tölti fel és biztosítja. Ha úgy gondolja, hogy valaki az Ön engedélye nélkül használja fel a szerzői joggal védett művét, kövesse az itt leírt folyamatot https://hu.player.fm/legal.
Speaker and author on professional relationships, Andy Lopata, explores great connections with experts and high achievers worldwide.
…
continue reading
177 epizódok
Tous les épisodes
×Welcome to the Connected Leadership podcast with Andy Lopata. This week, Andy looks back at his interview with former radio broadcaster and inspirational speaker, Simone Heng, author of the book Secret Pandemic: The Search for Connection in a Lonely World. Simone shares with Andy, the importance of human connection and how it affects our leadership and personal development. Simone talks about her experiences being both the critic and the criticised. She examines the importance of being vulnerable as a leader and how accountability plays an important part in leadership. She shares her belief that it is okay to have moments of overwhelm, and provided there are apologies to those affected, it is ok to not be together all the time. Simone shares the science around the need for human connection emphasising that a level of human connection is essential for both mental and physical wellbeing. She discusses how many are digitally connected yet emotionally disconnected. Key Takeaways · Vulnerability is the key to connecting to the people you lead · Human connection is not just a “nice to have” but is essential · Learn to apologise sincerely when you get it wrong, even if it is hard · Seek help from people who have different opinions and perspectives from you. · The real connection is with people who would “bring us to the hospital if we need it” · Pick up the phone - smiles are heard in the voice, whereas Zoom and teams remove some of the important connection nuances. · Meet your team where they are at - be flexible and open minded, ask them what they need. · Look for a serendipitous connection. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Simone Heng: Website | LinkedIn | YouTube | X | Instagram The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring Episode 138 Featuring Simone Heng…
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The Connected Leadership Podcast
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In this episode of the Connected Leadership Podcast, host Andy Lopata welcomes Greg Williams, ‘The Master Negotiator & Body Language Expert.’ With 30+ years of experience, Greg has trained and consulted in 19 countries, helping people enhance their value and get more from every negotiation. A Harvard-trained negotiator, cited by Forbes, and ranked among the world's top 30 gurus in negotiation and body language, he's a celebrated author, speaker, and trainer. Greg's insights come from a wealth of experience, including advising top 50 corporations, contributing to major news networks, and even consulting on the TV show Love & Hip Hop New York. As a member of Marshall Goldsmith's 100 Coaches, Greg's expertise is trusted by world leaders and public figures, and he lives by the motto: 'You're always negotiating!'” Greg shares his expertise on how to effectively read and utilise body language during negotiations. He highlights the importance of establishing a baseline for an individual's nonverbal communication in a relaxed setting before assessing their gestures under pressure. Greg emphasises that body language cues are best interpreted as a cluster, not individually, to avoid misinterpretations. He also discusses the crucial role of focusing on the other party's needs, and the power of using strategic pauses and asking questions. Greg and Andy discuss how to identify deception, manage aggressive negotiators and adapt body language understanding across diverse cultures, emphasising the importance of cultural awareness. Additionally, the conversation extends to virtual negotiations, where body language signals can be even more pronounced and how empathetic technology is set to change the future landscape of how we negotiate. What we discussed The Importance of the Baseline: Greg reveals how establishing a "normal" for someone is crucial to accurately interpreting their body language. This insight alone could revolutionise how you approach every conversation. Strategic Interpretation of Body Language: Learn how to avoid overthinking single cues and the importance of interpreting clusters of gestures for a clearer understanding of what’s really being said, beyond the words. Self-Awareness and Presence : How to shift focus from your needs to the needs of the other person—a powerful strategy that unlocks more collaborative results. Cultural Sensitivity: Crucial tips for navigating different cultural norms. Technological Impact: Uncover the future of negotiations through Greg’s insights on how empathetic technology will impact the professional landscape in the future and the ethical considerations to keep in mind. SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Greg Williams: Website | LinkedIn | YouTube | X | Facebook greg@themasternegotiator.com The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring Episode 139 Featuring Kevin Gaskell…
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The Connected Leadership Podcast
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In this episode of the Connected Leadership Bytes, Andy Lopata looks back at his interview with Kevin Gaskell, serial entrepreneur, author, and adventurer. Kevin discusses his record-breaking row across the Atlantic, focusing on the lessons learnt that are applicable to business, particularly how smaller businesses can compete with larger giants. Kevin shares how his initial reluctance to row transformed into a world-record attempt, driven by a serendipitous conversation and the desire to explore new challenges. He emphasises the critical importance of team chemistry over paper qualifications, noting how a strong bond and mutual trust were paramount to their success. Kevin highlights the balance between encouraging people to stretch and respecting their boundaries. He emphasises creating a vision of success that inspires rather than imposing targets. He describes their intense preparation, including a rigorous training regime and specialised courses. He reveals how they managed the grueling demands of the race, covering two-hour shifts of rowing and maintaining discipline through clear communication, whilst balancing the need to remain focused and also to take in and appreciate the overall experience. The importance of a strong culture was central to their success. Kevin also shares how they dealt with difficult moments using a designated ‘release word,’ which allowed for individual time but open discussions to solve problems. He concludes by stressing the importance of enjoying the journey whatever your goal, viewing challenges as opportunities, and creating an environment of trust and openness. Key Takeaways Team Chemistry is Crucial: Prioritise a strong connection and trust among team members over traditional qualifications. Inspire with Vision, Not Just Targets: Motivate your team with an extraordinary vision, not just by setting financial goals. Commitment Requires Choice: Empower individuals with the freedom to choose, but expect full commitment once they buy in. Discipline and Balance: Find the balance between rigorous discipline and the need to have a positive culture, where people feel they can contribute and make an impact. Culture is the Foundation: Create an open and honest culture built on kindness and mutual respect. Enjoy the Journey: Embrace the challenges and difficulties as learning opportunities, and find joy in the pursuit of your goals. SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Kevin Gaskell: Website | LinkedIn | The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring Episode 139 Featuring Kevin Gaskell…
In this episode of Connected Leadership Bytes, Andy Lopata revisits the episode with LaTonya Kilpatrick, Worldwide Director of Technology Research and Innovation at Colgate Palmolive. LaTonya, a chemist by training, discusses the critical role of strong partnerships, both internal and external, in her work to develop better oral care solutions. She emphasises that effective partnerships begin with understanding each party's motivations, curiosity, and what they can gain from collaboration. LaTonya describes how her team often partners with external academics for data analysis or with companies that need help navigating oral care regulations and metrics. She also highlights internal partnerships with product development and IT teams to bring ideas to fruition. She explains that the decision to build a competency or partner depends on project needs and whether the partnership is a long-term investment for the company. A major challenge lies in bridging the communication gap between different departments (e.g., scientists vs. IT) and ensuring all contributors, especially implementers, feel appreciated and recognised for their role. LaTonya maintains that transparency and authentic communication are also crucial to maintaining trust. She discusses how the most successful partnerships are with those who understand the value of the relationship. Finally, Andy and LaTonya talk about her passion to engage children in science, emphasising her role as a scientist and mentor. Her goal is to help them by making science fun and approachable early on, inspiring children to see science in their everyday lives, using simple experiments. Key Takeaways: Understanding Motivations: Successful partnerships begin with truly understanding what motivates each party, what their goals are, and how they can benefit from thecollaboration. Build vs. Partner: Decisions on whether to build internal expertise or partner externally should be made on a project-by-project basis, considering long-term value and needed expertise. Language and Communication: Bridging communication gaps between different departments or organisations is crucial. It is essential to adapt language, really listen, and find common ground. Appreciation is Key: Recognising and appreciating all contributors, including those in supporting roles, is vital for building and maintaining trust and morale. Research is Essential: Those seeking partnerships must demonstrate they understand the needs and value of the potential partner by doing their research and presenting it in the right perspective. Science is Everywhere: Science can be made fun and approachable for children, fostering their natural curiosity. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with LaTonya Kilpatrick: Website | LinkedIn | The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring Episode 178: Building Strong Partnerships' LaTonya Kilpatrick…
In this episode of Connected Leadership Bytes, Andy Lopata revisits his interview with Michael Roderick, host of the "Access to Anyone" podcast, exploring the dynamics of recommendations and referrals. Michael, who transitioned from a high school teacher to a Broadway producer, shares his insights on how to build a personal brand that encourages people to recommend you. Andy and Michael note that people like to feel useful, not used. It's crucial to focus on the benefit you provide to clients rather than just describing what you do, framing it as solving a problem for them. This makes it easier for others to see how they can recommend you when the opportunity arises. Michael also discusses the nuances of reciprocity, highlighting that individuals have different impulses and timelines for reciprocating. Some feel compelled to immediately reciprocate, while others take time to vet those they recommend. Michael uses his "fast to view, slow to recommend" approach from his Broadway days as an example of considered and thoughtful recommendations. They also explore the importance of trust and consistency, emphasising the need to do what you say you'll do promptly to build confidence in your credibility. Furthermore, they address how word-of-mouth, qualified recommendations, and clear communication impact success. To build a personal brand for referrals, Michael uses the acronym "AIM" - Accessibility, Influence and Memory. You need to have an accessible message, make people look good when they share it, and be memorable. Ultimately, it is better to be focused on the curiosity it creates than the access it gains, as this will mean people will be more likely to recommend you. Key Takeaways: Focus on Usefulness, Not Just Functionality: When describing what you do, highlight the problem you solve for clients, making it easy for others to see who in their network could benefit. Reciprocity is Nuanced: Understand that people have different impulses and timelines for reciprocating. Some are quick to reciprocate, whilst others take a long time. Be aware of these differences. Consistency Builds Trust: Follow through on your commitments promptly to establish credibility and encourage recommendations. AIM for a Referrable Brand: Make your message accessible , so people understand it. Ensure it creates influence which helps the sharer to look good and create memory by using language, emotion, simplicity and structure. Prioritise Curiosity over Access: Craft your message to generate interest and curiosity rather than just focusing on getting in front of people. Stories Enhance Memorability: Use stories and metaphors to make your message more engaging and easier for others to remember and repeat accurately. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Michael Roderick: Website | LinkedIn | The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring Episode 131 Featuring Michael Roderick…
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The Connected Leadership Podcast
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Welcome back to the Connected Leadership Podcast! We kick off 2025 with a returning guest, commercial mediator Jane Gunn, who joins Andy Lopata to discuss her new book, "The Mole and the Mountain." This parable explores the journey of overcoming obstacles and finding personal fulfillment, offering valuable insights for goal setting and personal growth in the New Year. Jane explains the two key principles of mediation that underpin the book: self-determination and being fully informed. She introduces the "Map of Experience" that guides the mole's journey and represents the stages of mediation. The first stage, "Now," involves understanding the narrative and identifying the challenges we face. This is about stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing curiosity. Andy and Jane then discuss the importance of mentorship in pushing ourselves out of our comfort zones and overcoming fear. Jane emphasises the role of a mentor who provides challenge without taking control. Next, they explore the fear of being wrong, a common obstacle in both mediation and personal life. Jane talks about shifting from a "win-lose" mindset to a "win-win" approach, emphasising the importance of understanding people's needs and interests rather than focusing on who is right or wrong. The focus turns to the importance of clarity in creating a vision for the future, the need to dig deep and understand what truly drives us. Andy and Jane also discuss the concept of "no one is coming to save us," the importance of self-determination and taking responsibility for our own decisions. Jane argues that mediation is a "grown-up" way of resolving disputes, allowing individuals to find creative solutions by taking control. Staying on track despite obstacles and setbacks, they share their personal experiences of perseverance and the importance of vision and a clear "why" to motivate them during difficult times. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of celebrating successes and recognising that failure can often be a stepping stone to greater success. What we discussed · How to deal with change that snatches us out of our comfort zone · How to overcome the fear that stops us following our dreams · How to create a clear vision of the future and belief that we can make it · How no one is coming to save us and we must dig deep when we are stuck · How to stay on track and never give up despite the obstacles and setbacks · How hardship and pain is part of the journey and path to triumph · How in the end it is up to us to decide and no one can take the journey for us Connect with Andy Lopata : Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Jane Gunn : Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring The Mole and the Mountain…
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The Connected Leadership Podcast
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In this episode of Connected Leadership Bytes, Andy Lopata revisits his interview with Malcolm Palmer on making Making Your Business Less Dependent On You . Andy and Malcolm discuss the challenges of business ownership, stress management, and the importance of strong professional relationships. Andy shares his personal journey of learning to cope with stress, highlighting the need to recognise both conscious and unconscious stress signals. Andy also emphasises the importance of vulnerable leadership, sharing experiences that led to him writing his book "Just Ask." He stresses the need for balance between work and personal life, incorporating hobbies and healthy activities into his schedule as part of his job. Complacency is a major enemy of productivity, and the key to overcoming it is to build habits and find strategic ways of working. Andy also mentions the importance of strategic thinking, taking time to work on big projects, and being mindful. Andy and Malcolm also explore the concept of "catastrophising"—anticipating" potential disasters to proactively avoid them—and the importance of letting go of negative relationships to improve focus and productivity. Andy concludes with insights into transitioning the business from being time-based to product-based and his plans for an app, The Relationship Matrix, which he is piloting. Key Takeaways: Recognise and Manage Stress: Business owners often hide stress, but it's essential to understand both conscious and unconscious stress signals. Vulnerable Leadership: Be open and share with your team, but strategically and when it's appropriate, trust builds strong relationships. Authenticity and transparency make you relatable. Balance is Key: It’s vital to schedule in personal time, hobbies and health. By treating wellness as part of your job, you make it non-negotiable. Combat Complacency: Be wary of complacency and create habits that help your business grow. Build in processes to allow time for the important but not urgent tasks. Strategic Time Management: Prioritise deep work and focus on important tasks rather than the easy wins first. Relationships Matter: Build strong, positive professional relationships with the right people and let go of negative relationships to improve productivity. Be ready to move on from relationships that aren’t strong. SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Malcom Palmer: Website | LinkedIn | The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring…
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The Connected Leadership Podcast
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In this episode, Andy Lopata revisits his guest interview with Melina Palmer on The Brainy Business Podcast, to explore the power of connected leadership. Andy, a master of networking, discusses his approach to building genuine, helpful relationships for both career advancement and business growth. He emphasises emphasizes that executive success depends on the network one builds, which goes beyond surface-level contacts. Andy shares insights on fostering "connected leadership" by surrounding yourself with people who can both offer help, want to help and know how to help. He explains that these elements are tied to performance, image, and exposure, a concept that can supercharge one's career. He reveals that people are more likely to support you not just because they're told to or see a personal gain, but because they genuinely like and trust you, making it important to nurture relationships by connecting on a human level. Andy further discusses how to move past fears of being seen as vulnerable when asking for help by reframing it as a request based on confidence and inner strength. He encourages listeners to make it easy for people to help them through clear, specific asks. Andy and Melina look The conversation delves into the importance of mentoring and letting supportive connections evolve naturally.Andy He stresses the need to balance giving and receiving while always prioritising prioritizing personal capacity. Finally, Andy introduces his "Curiosity Cycle," where curiosity, listening, authenticity and vulnerability interconnect to build meaningful relationships. Key Takeaways: Executive success is linked to the relationships one builds. People are motivated to help when they like and trust you. Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Be specific in your asks, and make it easy for people to help. Letting mentoring evolve naturally, and know when to say "no." Cultivate a mindset of curiosity, listening, authenticity, and vulnerability. SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Melina Palmer: Website | LinkedIn | The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring The Curiosity Cycle: Developing Trust and Engagement…
This episode of Connected Leadership Bytes features a revisit of Andy's conversation with Melva Lajoy Legrand, a leading event planner. Andy and Melva discuss the art of creating authentic connections, not just at large-scale events but also within teams and with individual relationships. Melva emphasises the importance of designing experiences that make people feel seen, valued, and heard. She shares practical strategies for event organisers, including using icebreakers that encourage storytelling, and creating spaces catering to diverse personality types (introverts and extroverts). The conversation then extends beyond event planning, exploring how to foster authentic connections in the workplace and personal life. Melva reveals the significance of vulnerability and humility in building genuine relationships, both professionally and personally. They also touch upon the evolving landscape of events, with an emphasis on interactive experiences over traditional lecture formats, and pre-event engagement strategies for creating lasting connections with audiences. In this episode, Andy asks Melva to share a podcast episode in which she tells her personal journey. Melva recommends listening to her podcast interview with Elizabeth Smart Foundation . Melva asked to stress that, "This post contains sensitive information which is meant to heal not harm. Read with care. Consider with compassion. Protect your peace." This episode of Connected Leadership Bytes offers a deep dive into the art of creating authentic connections, whether through events, leadership, or everyday interactions, and provides valuable insights for anyone looking to foster genuine relationships in their personal or professional life. Key Takeaways: Design for Connection: Creating events (or any interaction) should prioritise making people feel seen, valued, and heard. Authenticity is Key: Genuine connections are built on vulnerability, humility, and a willingness to share both successes and challenges. This fosters trust and deeper engagement. Know Your Audience: Recognise the diverse personality types within any group and design experiences that cater to introverts and extroverts alike. Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. Beyond Job Titles: Encourage interactions based on shared experiences and stories rather than solely professional roles. This fosters a sense of community and belonging. Pre- and Post-Event Engagement: Extend the connection beyond the event itself through pre-event communication and post-event follow-up, creating a more lasting impact. The Power of Vulnerability: Openly sharing personal struggles can build stronger connections with others, fostering empathy and trust. It's important to do the personal work before sharing to ensure authenticity. SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | Youtube Connect with Melva Lajoy Legrand: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn…
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The Connected Leadership Podcast
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In this episode of Connected Leadership Bytes, Lisa Fane, CEO of the Center for Mentoring Excellence, and her colleague Michelle Hancock interview Andy Lopata. They discuss the importance of professional relationships, networking, and mentoring. Focusing on building authentic connections, understanding the difference between networking and professional relationships, and the concept of a personal board of advisors. Andy shares strategies for maintaining professional networks, the role of vulnerability in mentorship and the impact of remote work on mentoring and professional relationships. He emphasises the importance of consistency and frequency in building connections and offers insights into evolving mentoring practices in the modern workplace. Key Takeaways Reframing Networking: Shifting the perception of "networking" to "professional relationship strategy." Focus on building genuine, long-term relationships based on mutual respect and trust. The Power of Personal Boards of Advisors (Mastermind Groups): Crucial for leveraging diverse expertise and perspectives, this peer-to-peer mentoring approach offers invaluable support, guidance, and problem-solving capabilities. Regular meetings are key. The Seven Stages of Professional Relationships: Andy highlights a model (detailed in his book Connected Leadership ) outlining seven stages of relationship development. Focusing on strengthening relationships in the middle stages (where rapport and trust exist but advocacy hasn't fully developed) is more effective than constantly seeking new connections. Vulnerability and Trust: Authentic professional relationships require vulnerability from both the mentor and mentee. Sharing struggles, mistakes, and doubts builds stronger connections and increases the resonance of the mentorship. Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Common networking mistakes: prioritising quantity over quality, asking for help too soon, and treating relationships transactionally. Instead look for consistent, frequent engagement, and fostering genuine connections without an immediate expectation of return. The Evolution of Mentorship: Andy notes the shift in mentorship due to remote work and changing career paths. This necessitates a more inclusive approach, embracing virtual mentoring, cross-organisational collaborations, and adapting to the needs of younger generations who prioritise long-term development over short-term project-based coaching. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Lisa Fain: Website | LinkedIn | Listen to the full episode here The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring…
In this month’s premiere episode of the Connected Leadership Podcast, Andy Lopata interviews David Avrin. David is one of the most in-demand Customer Experience speakers and consultants in the world today, He has shared his content-rich, entertaining and actionable presentations with enthusiastic audiences across North America and in 24 countries around the world. David helps organisations better understand and connect with their customers and clients to help future-proof their businesses. David's insights have been featured on thousands of media outlets around the world. He is also the author of seven books including the acclaimed: It's Not Who You Know, It's Who Knows You! Why Customers Leave (and How to Win Them Back), The Morning Huddle, and his newest book, Ridiculously Easy to Do Business With. Andy and David explore the crucial differences between customer service and customer experience, highlighting that while good service is essential, it's the overall experience that truly drives customer loyalty in today's competitive market. David argues that while many businesses boast high-quality products and services, the experience they provide is often far from ideal, leading to customer frustration. Their conversation traces the changing landscape of customer interaction, particularly the role of social media and the increasing reliance on AI-powered chatbots. While social media once served as a powerful tool for holding companies accountable, its effectiveness appears to be waning, as organisations struggle to manage the sheer volume of feedback. They also highlight the significant generational differences in customer expectations and preferences regarding technology. While younger generations are tech-savvy and prefer self-service options, older generations often require more personalised assistance. This necessitates an "omni-channel" approach, offering a variety of ways for customers to engage based on their individual needs and preferences. The overuse of surveys is criticised, with David suggesting that less frequent, shorter, and simpler surveys are more effective. Building relatability and likability within a brand's identity is emphasised, and it's suggested that businesses shouldn't necessarily aim to please everyone, but to be the best choice for their target audience. Finally, Andy and David reflect on the importance of striking a balance between efficiency and personalisation, prioritising speed and respect for customers' time. They emphasise that while businesses strive for predictability and efficiency, they must not lose sight of the human element and the importance of making the customer experience not just competent, but preferable . What we discussed: 1. Customer Service vs. Customer Experience: Understand the critical distinction and why customer experience trumps service in today's market. 2. The Evolving Role of Social Media: Social media's influence on customer feedback is shifting and how businesses can adapt. 3. AI and Human Interaction: What is the optimal balance between AI-driven efficiency and essential human interaction. 4. Generational Differences: How to cater to the diverse needs and technological preferences of different generations. 5. The Power of Feedback (and the Perils of Overdoing It): How to effectively gather and use customer feedback without causing frustration Listen to this episode to gain actionable insights into creating a superior customer experience, leveraging technology effectively, and navigating the complexities of a multi-generational market. Connect with Andy Lopata : Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with David Avrin : Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring Ridiculously Easy to Do Business With.…
In this episode of the Connected Leadership Bytes, we feature Andy Lopata’s guest interview on the Authority Podcast with Ross Romano. Andy is a specialist speaker on professional relationships and co-author with Dr Ruth Gotian, of the Financial Times Guide to Mentoring . Mentoring in its various forms and benefits for both mentors and mentees is discussed. Andy explains that mentoring isn't just a hierarchical senior-junior relationship; it can be reverse mentoring (junior mentoring senior), peer-to-peer and formal/informal approaches. He emphasises the importance of having a "mentoring team," drawing support from various individuals. Andy and Ross agree that the qualifications for being a mentor are experience and expertise rather than formal qualifications. Andy explains the distinctions between mentoring, coaching, role models, and sponsors. The podcast also discusses what mentors should expect from mentees (commitment, accountability, openness to challenge) and vice versa. Andy also advocates for an abundance mentality in mentoring, both at an individual and organisational level, arguing that investment in mentorship yields significant returns in terms of staff retention, upskilling, and creating a positive work environment. Key Takeaways: Diverse Mentoring Models: Andy shared that mentoring extends beyond the traditional hierarchical model to include reverse mentoring, peer-to-peer mentoring, and informal mentoring teams, catering to diverse needs and situations. Clarity of Objectives: He emphasised the crucial role of clearly defined goals and objectives for both mentor and mentee to ensure the relationship's effectiveness and to prevent it from stalling. Honest and Supportive Guidance: The balance between honest feedback and supportive encouragement is critical. Mentors should challenge mentees while providing the support needed to succeed. Accountability and Commitment: A successful mentoring relationship requires both parties' commitment and willingness to be held accountable for agreed-upon actions and goals. Organisational Mentorship Programmes: To be successful these programmes require strategic planning, senior management buy-in, and peer-level support to ensure effectiveness and prevent resentment within teams. SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Ross Romano: Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring…
This week, Connected Leadership Bytes dives into a conversation with Paul McGee, author and speaker known for his book “SUMO (Shut Up, Move On) and his latest release “The Happiness Revolution”. Andy and Paul explore the complexities of happiness in a world filled with technological advancements and social media pressures. Paul emphasises that happiness is not a destination but a byproduct of living life well, embracing challenges, and fostering meaningful connections. He highlights the importance of embracing a holistic approach to well-being, taking care of our physical, mental, and emotional health. Social media, while offering connection, can also contribute to aims of social perfectionism and unrealistic comparisons, leading to unhappiness. Paul advocates for a mindful approach to social media, using it as a tool for connection and inspiration while recognising its potential pitfalls. There is a tendency to postpone happiness until we achieve certain goals. Paul suggests finding happiness in the present moment and not solely relying on external factors. The episode concludes by exploring the connection between happiness and professional relationships. Paul argues that happier individuals create a more positive work environment and foster stronger professional connections Key takeaways from the episode · Happiness is a byproduct, not a destination: This resonates with the idea of finding joy in the journey, not just the destination, which is a key principle for successful and sustainable leadership. · Holistic well-being is crucial: Happiness is not solely about emotions. Take a holistic approach that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional well-being. · Social Media: A tool, not a master: . Use social media mindfully as a tool for connection and inspiration, but avoid letting it define your worth or happiness. This emphasises the need for leaders to be aware of how social media impacts their own well-being and the well-being of their team members. · Authenticity is key: Authenticity and vulnerability are essential for strong leadership. Sharing your struggles and challenges alongside your successes builds trust and connection with your team, creating a more human and supportive environment. · Embrace imperfection: Aim for excellence, but recognise that perfectionism is unrealistic and can be detrimental to your well-being. Embrace your flaws and failures as opportunities for growth. This encourages leaders to be more relatable, create a culture of learning, and foster a sense of psychological safety within their teams. · Happy people build strong connections: Happiness has a positive impact on professional relationships. Be kind, grateful, and focus on building genuine connections. This highlights the importance of emotional intelligence and creating a positive work environment for successful leadership. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Paul Mcgee: Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring…
Get ready to raise a glass... of sparkling water! In this episode of Connected Leadership Bytes, Andy Lopata revisits his episode with Janey Lee Grace, a familiar voice from BBC Radio 2 and a passionate advocate for alcohol-free living. Janey shares her personal journey from pop star to radio presenter, revealing how she navigated a world obsessed with alcohol and ultimately decided to embrace a sober lifestyle. She discusses how alcohol is deeply ingrained in our culture, and the challenges of politely declining a drink without feeling like you're missing out. Janey and Andy discuss the crucial role of connection in overcoming addiction, highlighting the power of community and finding a sense of belonging. She talks about the Sober Club, a space she created to support individuals on their alcohol-free journeys, and emphasises the importance of having people you can connect with and rely on as you navigate a sober life. Andy and Janey conclude with a call to action, urging listeners and leaders to challenge the assumption that alcohol is essential for building relationships. They offer insights on how to create more inclusive environments where everyone feels comfortable, regardless of their choices around alcohol. Janey's new book, "From WHAM! to WOO: A Life on the Mic," is a must-read for anyone who loves music, radio, and behind-the-scenes stories. She takes us back to her early days in the music industry, from singing backup for Mari Wilson and the Wilsations to touring the world with WHAM! · It's time to challenge the "alcohol is essential" myth. There are plenty of ways to build strong relationships without relying on a drink. · You're not alone. There are countless people who have embraced a sober lifestyle and have discovered incredible benefits. · Don't be afraid to say "no" to alcohol. It's your right to choose what you put in your body. · Connection is key. Find a supportive community, online or offline, to help you stay motivated and on track. · Leaders, it's your job to create inclusive work cultures. Make sure everyone feels welcome, regardless of their choices around alcohol. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Janey Lee Grace: Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter Listen to the full episode of this podcast The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring From WHAM! to WOO: A Life on the Mic by Janey Lee Grace…
In this episode of the Connected Leadership Podcast, host Andy Lopata welcomes Nathan Farrugia, leader of the Vistage Group. Nathan is an experienced business coach with more than 20 years’ experience across technology, construction, healthcare, education, and hospitality, as well as a TEDx speaker, philanthropist and record-breaking adventurer. Nathan's impressive resume includes setting a world record for running 27 marathons in 27 countries in 27 days. Andy and Nathan examine the art of asking tough questions, a skill vital for leaders. Nathan believes many leaders, particularly those grappling with burnout and change, are not being asked the crucial question, "Is what you're doing aligned with your purpose in life?" This existential query, often avoided in everyday interactions, becomes a cornerstone of Nathan's coaching approach, prompting introspection and reflection. Exploring the delicate balance between assertiveness and vulnerability in coaching, Nathan emphasises the importance of earning trust before delving into deeper, potentially uncomfortable questions. He shares how his own experiences, coupled with strategic storytelling, help him build rapport and encourage clients to open up. The episode highlights the importance of understanding emotional responses to tough, challenging questions, specifically drawing on the concept of the "chimp brain"—the instinctive, reactive part of our minds. Nathan explains how he recognises these reactions through body language and seeks to create a safe space for individuals to move beyond emotional defences and engage with their rational minds. Andy and Nathan explore the distinction between coaching and mentoring, with Nathan underscoring that while he may offer insights based on his experience, he never prescribes solutions. He prioritises empowering clients to discover their own answers through a process of exploration and self-discovery. What we discussed: 1. Are you asking the right questions? 2. Beyond the surface. Nathan's experiences highlight the importance of diving deep to understand the emotional drivers behind a client's challenges. How much are you truly listening to your team? 3. The power of vulnerability. How can you create a space where open dialogue and authentic conversation flourish? 4. Unlocking the "chimp brain." Learn how to recognise and navigate emotional reactions to challenging questions. 5. The magic of group dynamics. Learn how to leverage the power of collective wisdom in your team? Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Nathan Farrugia: Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring…
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