S1 E7 Promoting Innovation through Externalization

Make Work Work Better (Audio Only)

Summary In this conversation, Dr. Marc Reynolds explores the power of externalizing thoughts and plans with your team. He discusses the benefits of externalization, such as team alignment, increased employee engagement, and promotion of innovation. Dr. Reynolds provides practical tips for capitalizing on this power, including tying everything back to mission or values, pointing out successes, and focusing on positive feedback. He also emphasizes the importance of avoiding common pitfalls in feedback and idea-sharing, such as using the 'but' statement and shutting down ideas. Dr. Reynolds concludes by highlighting the significance of returning and reporting as part of company culture. Takeaways

• Externalizing thoughts and plans with your team enhances team alignment, increases employee engagement, and promotes innovation.
• Tie everything back to your mission or values to create a sense of purpose and guide decision-making.
• Point out successes and provide positive feedback to encourage employees and foster a culture of celebration.
• Avoid common pitfalls in feedback and idea-sharing, such as using the 'but' statement and shutting down ideas.
• Make returning and reporting a part of company culture to empower employees and ensure accountability.

Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:37 Celebrating the Positive 03:02 Avoiding Common Pitfalls 04:30 Setting Clear Time Limits 05:39 Making Returning and Reporting a Part of Company Culture 06:09 Conclusion Keywords externalizing thoughts, team alignment, employee engagement, innovation, positive feedback, idea-sharing, returning and reporting, company culture