In this episode, we explore how to re-energize teams that feel disconnected and flat in our post-pandemic workplace reality.

Understanding the Post-Pandemic Workplace Challenge

I introduce the concept of "pandemnesia" and examine how our adaptations to remote work have created:

• More meetings but less quality collaboration

• More communication channels but less genuine connection

• More work volume but less focus on impact

The Need for an Energy Reset: Rather than throwing out the positive changes we've made, we need a strategic reset that reclaims shared values while maintaining flexibility. This means creating intentional moments that rebuild energy and focus.

Strategy #1: Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

Based on Teresa Amabile's groundbreaking "Progress Principle" research, I share:

• Why even small wins dramatically boost inner work life and motivation

• How to implement weekly "Progress Check-ins" with minimal time investment

• A framework for "bookend huddles" that plan for and celebrate achievements

Strategy #2: Connect Before Content

Learn practical approaches to rebuild human connection in virtual settings:

• Starting meetings with thoughtful "Connection Questions" that transcend small talk

• How to create "Skills Spotlight" moments that position team members as experts

• Techniques for handling camera reluctance while still building psychological safety

Overcoming Implementation Challenges

I address the common concern that "this sounds great, but I don't have time," explaining how these strategies:

• Actually return time to leaders as teams become more self-sufficient

• Increase enjoyment of leadership roles

• Create workplaces where creativity and enthusiasm naturally flow

Resources Mentioned: Amabile, T. M., & Kramer, S. J. (2011). The progress principle: Using small wins to ignite joy, engagement, and creativity at work. Harvard Business Review Press.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Check out my Resource Page for additional resources on team engagement and connection.

Send me your leadership questions: Contact Me

In this episode, we explore:

The Strategic Value Gap: Understanding why even accomplished professionals struggle to articulate how they're measured at work

The Job Pie Exercise: A visual tool to determine where your time and energy should be allocated for maximum impact

Practical Value-Adding Strategies:

• Creating your Strategic Value Proposition using ideal vs. real job allocation
• Implementing the TIE (Time, Impact, Energy) tracker to identify time drains
• Developing Quarterly Action Plans that demonstrate measurable outcomes

Building Professional Resilience:

• Designing a Strategic Development Blueprint
• Aligning your growth with organizational needs
• Having valuable conversations with managers about priorities

Action Steps for Immediate Implementation:

• Conducting your own Job Pie assessment
• Scheduling strategic alignment conversations
• Identifying your highest-impact development opportunities
• Shifting from "busy" to strategically valuable this week

TIE (Time Impact Energy) Tracker: Available on the Resource Page

Find out more about my upcoming free webinar: Beat the Burnout FREE Webinar

Send me your leadership questions: Contact Me

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Feeling undervalued at work can be discouraging, and workplace loneliness is at an all-time high. Join in as Claire Laughlin teaches how genuine recognition and appreciation can transform team engagement and retention.

Understand the key reasons why appreciation matters and how leaders can build a culture where employees feel seen, valued, and motivated.

In this conversation:

1. The alarming statistics on workplace recognition and disengagement
2. Common misconceptions leaders have about giving praise
3. The connection between recognition and employee engagement
4. Understanding individual strengths with the Working Genius model
5. Actionable strategies to create a recognition-rich workplace
6. How clear expectations and goal alignment enhance motivation

Take Action: Start by incorporating meaningful recognition into your leadership approach. Acknowledge efforts in a way that aligns with your team's values and individual strengths.

Links & Resources :

🔗 Free guide to developing role clarity:

🔗 The Working Genius Model.

Connect with Claire on social media- Clairelaughlincounsulting

Feedback and Questions: support@clairelaughlin.com

Come and join us in the community of great leaders!

Loved this episode? Leave us a rating and review on your favorite podcast app!

Welcome to THIS Leader!

We all know that leadership is rewarding but can also be challenging!

In this episode, join Claire as she shares:

• Why your leadership impact matters more than your title (and how this realization will transform your approach to team development)
• The surprising truth about leadership that will free you from the constant pressure to have all the answers
• How to stop feeling guilty about taking care of yourself first (and why it's essential for your team's success)
• The connection between personal wellbeing and leadership effectiveness that no one talks about
• My proven framework for communicating with clarity and confidence (even in high-pressure situations)
• The secret to building a team that doesn't need you to jump in and fix everything
• A practical exercise to identify where you're overspending your energy (and how to redirect it for maximum impact)
• The simple shift that will help you develop stronger, more capable team members (while freeing up your time)

Links and Resources:

1. Free Leadership tools: clairelauglin.com/resources
2. For Feedback and Inquiries: support@clairelaughlin.com
3. Connect with Claire on social media: @clairelaughlinconsulting

Love this episode? Leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast streaming app.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by leadership challenges or struggled with defining your leadership standards, this episode is for you!

In this powerful episode, we dive into one of the fundamental secrets of high-impact leaders: setting clear leadership standards.

Discover the 5 Cs of leadership that can transform how you show up as a leader, even in the most challenging situations.

Learn practical ways to define and live by your own leadership standards to create more meaningful connections and drive better results.

In this episode, we explore:

• The hidden power of setting leadership standards (and why they matter most when everything feels chaotic)
• How the 5 Cs of Leadership can transform your impact without adding to your workload
• The connection secret that helps you stay grounded when everyone needs something from you
• A practical approach to maintaining self-awareness when you're pulled in multiple directions
• The clarity framework that prevents misunderstandings and saves hours of cleanup time
• Why asking questions is more powerful than having all the answers (and how to do it effectively)
• How to overcome conflict avoidance and address difficult situations with courage and confidence
• The simple strategy that builds trust and psychological safety in your team
• Why unpredictable leadership kills team motivation (and how to avoid this common trap)
• Three powerful ways to share your leadership standards that actually inspire change
• A reflection exercise that helps you define your own authentic leadership standards

Take Action: Define your own leadership standards and share them with your team to inspire accountability and growth.

Share your leadership standards with Claire on Instagram @ClaireLaughlinConsulting

Learn more and access free resources at: www.clairelaughlin.com

Feedback and Inquiries: support@clairelaughlin.com

Follow Claire Laughlin on social media channels: @clairelaughlinconsulting

⭐Love this episode? Support the show by leaving a rating and review on your favorite podcast app.

The 'THIS Leader' podcast explores the transformational, high-impact secrets that turn the ordinary people into extra-ordinary leaders! THIS Leader is hosted by Claire Laughlin, an organizational development consultant. She and her guests will explore: How individuals can enhance their leadership impact by showing up as their personal best, how teams can leverage connection and clarity to experience tremendous results, and how organizations can increase trust and engagement and improve outcomes by putting people and relationships at the center of the business.