Chapter 4 Episode 3: Mary Lemmer

Maneuvering Monday

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In the last commentary episode of chapter 4, we talk to Mary Lemmer, who is not only the founder of the company Improve, but also a keynote speaker, conference session facilitator, longtime entrepreneur, writer/author, and improv comedian.
The story episode is full of attempts to solve the team communication and culture problems that have been identified earlier, and to disclose the key lessons from the commentary episode up front:

1. The way you approach a situation makes a difference
2. You need to acknowledge the root of a problem before you can fix it
3. Sugar will not solve your company's culture problem

We discuss some of the possible reasons to trust a leader besides professional capability, and how cinnamon buns are nothing but #emptyperks, when Zebra Apps' management continuously leave out diabetics like Willie. And frankly, when is sugar really the right solution? We talk about the impact of information hoarding, communication gaps, and imposter syndromes. The importance of people's tone of voice. And finally, a kind recommendation to everyone listening: "If it feels weird, do it."
Frameworks and models

• Paradox of knowledge
• The Tiny Things Tuesdays ritual, where the team get together to surface tiny things that need to be paid attention to.
• CliftonStrengths Online Talent Assessment to look at employee's strengths and potential to improve
• Thrive, tested, thanked: A framework for individuals to assess where they thrive, where they feel tested, and how they would like to be thanked.
• Kim Scott's Radical Candor
• The acceptance principle: Saying “Yes, and” — A principle for improv, business & life | by Mary Lemmer | IMPROVE | Medium

You can learn more about Mary on her website, or about the company Improve on their website. Also, check out Mary's TED Talk: “How improv can improve your leadership and life”.

What do you think Marie should do? Join the conversation on our LinkedIn page
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Anne Katrine & Ivanna