Please see detailed show notes at the end.

Summary

In this episode, Joselle and Shujaat discuss the criticality of innovation amidst economic volatility, and how to lead it during such uncertain times. They explore three key strategies for leaders:

1. dreaming big while starting small,
2. thinking like a scientist through experimentation,
3. and crowdsourcing innovation from within the organization.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of leadership in fostering a culture of innovation and the need to challenge common myths about leadership and decision-making. Through practical examples and insights, they provide actionable advice for leaders looking to drive meaningful change in their organizations.

Key Takeaways

• Innovation is crucial for business survival in volatile times.

• Leaders must foster a culture of experimentation.

• Dreaming big while starting small allows for manageable progress.

• Thinking like a scientist helps in validating ideas through testing.

• Crowdsourcing innovation leverages internal talent and collaboration.

• Leaders should be the last to speak in meetings to encourage input.

• Assuming leaders have all the answers is a common myth.

• Cultural change is essential for sustainable innovation.

• Data-driven decision-making should not become decision-driven data making.

• Building diverse networks enhances innovation and career growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:56 Topic: Innovation Amid Economic Volatility

08:25 Chapter 1: Dream Big, Start Small

16:23 Chapter 2: Think Like a Scientist

28:55 Chapter 3: Crowdsourcing Innovation

38:22 Chapter 4: Creating a Culture of Innovation

44:37 Chapter 5: Practical Application in Team Meetings

References Discussed

• Ex Google Leader: Shujaat was referencing Sukhinder Singh Cassidy who gave a brilliant talk on taking risks, experimenting, and how your behavior as leaders drives the right culture for that in your team. Her publicly available talk can be found here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4-7UZZ8M1Q
• Correction: Blockbuster operated 9,094 stores at its peak.

Keywords

innovation, economic volatility, leadership strategies, crowdsourcing, experimentation, business transformation, digital transformation, purposeful leadership, career development, organizational culture

June brings in the season for commencement speeches with advice for graduating classes. However, we feel this year a commencement speech is required for leaders! This episode is our take on this speech for leaders.

This special class went through unprecedented times in history during their years in college/university. They began their journey at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. They are entering the world of work in a disarray where their expectations from leaders conflict with expectations of leaders from them. The trust deficit between leaders and junior talent already is an epidemic. Gallup indicates we are at a 11 year low in engagement and rise in disengagement. CEO’s indicate managing this mismatch of expectations as their biggest challenge.

In this episode, we discuss

• What’s the deal with the class of 2024 and why leaders need to pay attention to stay relevant for the future

• What are insights for leaders from our personal career journeys that also started when the world was full of disarray.

• What’s the strategic approach that will help today’s leaders and tomorrow’s new leaders to thrive

• We recap with our top books recommendations for leaders and for the class of 2024 entering the workforce

Tune in for practical advice, actionable steps, and thought-provoking discussions that will empower you to lead with authenticity and empathy. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your leadership game and navigate the ever-evolving business landscape with confidence.

Welcome to the first episode of Here's the Deal, where hosts Joselle Deocampo-Gautam and Shujaat Ahmad unravel the mysteries of AI. We discuss how the role of leadership evolves in response to the transformative changes brought by AI. We discuss what leaders need to do to embrace the impact on their businesses, organizations, careers, and purposeful living.

Using Shujaat's expertise in culture change and the future of work, and Joselle's expertise in economics and innovation strategy, we explore the far-reaching implications of AI in reshaping organizations to drive business and societal value. Discover how AI is not just a tool for tech experts but a new team member with transformative force influencing everyone from Fortune 100 leaders to Formula One enthusiasts.

Tune in now to unlock the secrets of success in an AI-driven world!