The New Manager Podcast

Every manager is expected to give feedback and performance reviews, so it helps to have a clear idea of what they are and how they are different. Most managers won't get any training or guidance on how to do this well -- so don't feel bad if it seems like you're expected to know how to do this. You're in the right place! This episode is a great place to start.**After the Episode**Join the next cohort for Communication Strategies for Managers: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesFollow me on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/For private coaching focused on your goals, situation, and professional development, message me on LinkedIn or through my website: https://kimnicol.com/I offer private team trainings on manager development, effective communication and feedback skills. To learn more, contact me on LinkedIn or through my website!

If you're not sure where to start when it comes to AI, this episode is for you. For starters, when you think about using a generative AI tool like Claude or ChatGPT, follow this rule:"Treat it like a person, but tell it what kind of person it is."Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI, by Ethan MollickRACE Prompt Framework:https://www.acronymat.com/2024/12/22/race-prompt-framework/After the EpisodeGet future cohort dates for Communication Strategies for Managers:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesFor private coaching focused on your goals and situation, go to:https://kimnicol.com/Follow me on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/PS - If you like this podcast or if it's helped you in some way, please leave a rating or review! Thanks so much.

Ok, it's time for us to start talking about AI. Are you an enthusiastic user? Or do you feel reluctant to learn about it? It might seem overwhelming, like one more thing to learn about when you already have a full plate. So today, let's start with something simple: the present moment. Do you currently use AI tools at work? And if so, how? Are you reluctant to use AI at work? And if so, why?I'm so curious to know!Tell me all about it by leaving a comment on the episode (if you're a Spotify listener), or find me on LinkedIn and send me a message:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/You can also message me through my website:https://kimnicol.com/contact/Lastly, if you're coming to SF Climate Week, come to my event on Manager Readiness: https://lu.ma/6gvwztdp

Every team is different. Even if you have the same people, the team can change over time -- because people can change over time. Today's episode gives you a few reflection questions to help sharpen your thinking and highlight some existing learning skills you've honed over time. Let's discuss!**After the Episode**Enrollment for the current cohort is open for a few more days. To join us, register here:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesFor private coaching to focus on your goals and situation, schedule a Discovery Call:https://kimnicol.com/Connect with me on LinkedIn (include a note if you listen to this show, so I know how you found me!):https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

Being a manager is stressful. And hey, stress is normal when you're doing something new -- especially if you've had little to no training or guidance! The goal is not to eliminate all stress. Instead, you want to learn to distinguish between healthy stress, and unhealthy stress, and handle them differently.**After the Episode**Register for Communication Strategies for Managers:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesClass starts on Friday, April 4, so enroll now to join! Your work might even support you and cover the cost.For private coaching focused on your goals and unique situation, schedule a Discovery Call:https://kimnicol.com/Follow me on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

Today we revisit one of the most popular episodes from the past year: Working with Difficult People.At some point in your career, you're going to find yourself in this situation. It can be frustrating. How you choose to respond is everything. **After the Episode**Register for Communication Strategies for Managers and learn the essential skills that will help you feel more calm and confident every day:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesReach out for 1:1 coaching on your specific situation and goals:https://kimnicol.com/Follow me on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

Too many meetings on your calendar? Welcome to being a manager. Expect to have more meetings, including: 1:1s with your team, plus team meetings, meetings with your manager and other leadership and project meetings. . . It's worth it to take a step back and make a plan. Listen to this bonus mini episode for three questions to ask yourself to have better meetings and 1:1s.For more support, register for Communication Strategies for Managers:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesVolume pricing is available when you buy 2 or more seats, if you want to register with a colleague or team.

The Dishwasher Dilemma uses an everyday task to illustrate just how much nuance and thought goes into delegating tasks -- and what happens when things don't go the way you expected. Managers spend a lot of time on : 1) Making decisions, and 2) Communicating. Those are foundational for managing relationships and emotions, whether you want to build trust, influence without authority, engage or motivate your team.When you take time to develop foundational skills and mindset, it makes everything else easier.**After the Episode** Enrollment for the April 2025 cohort is now open!Register for Communication Strategies for Managers:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesYour work might have budget to cover the cost -- and your boss might be delighted that you're taking initiative and owning your professional development.Special pricing is available for 2+ or more, so ask me if you want to register with your team or colleague.Follow me on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/For private coaching or sessions with your team, contact me through me website:https://kimnicol.com/

Nothing can fully prepare you for the reality of managing people. Different personalities, priorities, and communication styles can shake any new manager's confidence, and leave you wondering: "Am I really cut out for this?" If being a manager is activating frustration and imposter syndrome, this episode will help!**After the Episode**Enrollment for the April 2025 cohort is now open! Sign up for Communication Strategies for Managers:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesUse the code EARLYBIRD at checkout and save.Consider asking your work to cover the cost -- they might be delighted that you're taking initiative and owning your professional development!Follow me on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/For private coaching or private sessions for your team, contact me through my website:https://kimnicol.com/

Managers deal with a lot of change. Some of it you have no say about -- leadership simply makes a decision that you now have to communicate to your team. Other times, you will be the one initiating change -- and you'll have to figure out how to get a person or your team on board.Here are seven tips to help managers facilitate change.People want to know about:Meaning: What does this change mean for them?Timing: When will this change happen?Context: What is happening, and why?To facilitate change, you will manage:Emotions: How people feel.Expectations: What people think will happen.Attention: What people focus on.Actions: What behaviors you want to see.**After the Episode**Get future course dates:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesReach out for private coaching:https://kimnicol.com/Follow me on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

Being a people manager means developing the soft skills you need to manage a range of people. You'll encounter people with different personalities and work styles, and a range of communication skills. Each person may have different priorities and motivations. "Soft skills" can be hard to get right, depending on your situation. This episode starts with some prompts to get you thinking about the role of dignity in your work relationships, and how it fits with the soft skills that every manager needs to develop. ** After the Episode** For more about the book Dignity by Dr Donna Hicks, visit; https://drdonnahicks.com/ Get the next cohort dates for Communication Strategies for Managers: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies For private coaching, or to discuss a workshop or training for your team: https://kimnicol.com/ Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

Every day you get examples of communication. You're surrounded by it! When you think about the people you work with, who stands out as being a great communicator? Why? What are they doing -- or not doing? This deceptively simple practice will activate your powers of observation and curiosity. You will become more intentional and less reactive, when you start where you are and learn from your direct experience of the communication around you. In this episode you'll hear an excerpt from my course, Communication Strategies for Managers. A small idea can create big change, especially when it comes to how you communicate at work. **After the Episode** Sign up to hear about future cohorts: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies Reach out to discuss private coaching, or a workshop for your team: https://kimnicol.com/ Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

A lot of new managers tell me they're conflict avoidant and struggle to communicate directly when it feels like there's conflict brewing. If that's you, then this episode is for you. I've been reading a book, Dignity: The Essential Role It Plays in Resolving Conflict. The author is Dr. Donna Hicks, an Associate at the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs at Harvard University. She has worked as a conflict resolution specialist for years. In her book, she talks about dignity violations and describes these ten essential elements of dignity: Acceptance of Identity Inclusion Safety Acknowledgment Recognition Fairness Benefit of the Doubt Understanding Independence Accountability In today's episode you'll get introduced to these elements. I highly recommend reading her book in full! I've found it to be a helpful model for thinking in a new way about conflict, and how to heal from conflict. Dignity: The Essential Role It Plays in Resolving Conflict https://www.amazon.com/Dignity-Essential-Role-Resolving-Conflict/dp/030026142X/ Dr. Donna Hicks https://drdonnahicks.com/ **After the Episode** Join my course, Communication Strategies for Managers https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies For private coaching: https://kimnicol.com/ Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

Do you know the Eisenhower Matrix? It's a classic framework for organizing tasks and clarifying priorities. In this episode, I walk you through the basics, adding a Neurodiverse lens that makes this framework even more useful. This is also the 200th episode of The New Manager Podcast. Wow! Thank you for listening, and being part of this. In this episode I also share an announcement: that I will be taking a break. After 200 episodes, it's time to pause and take some time to think about what to create next for you and this show. **After the Episode** More about the Eisenhower Matrix: https://untools.co/eisenhower-matrix/ Register for Communication Skills for Managers or get on the wait list: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies Get private coaching, or ask about a workshop for your team: https://kimnicol.com/ Follow me on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

If you're conflict avoidant, or grew up as the peace-maker in your family or friend group, then save this episode! You probably have a gut sense that conflict is bad, and must be prevented. But did you know that conflict can actually be an indicator of psychological safety? Conflict is a normal part of human relationships. What's important is what kind of conflict it is, and how you handle it. Let's discuss! **After the Episode** Register for Communication Strategies for Managers: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies Ask about private coaching or team sessions: https://kimnicol.com/ Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

You must find out how things work. One of the most common misconceptions is, "If I just do good work, it will be recognized and rewarded." When you don't question your assumptions about process --how things work -- it leaves you with blind spots you don't realize are holding you back! Here's a simple three step framework that can help you: What do you want? Make a list of all the things. How do you think it works? Write down the story of how you think those things happen. Verify! Get curious, talk to people, and get new perspectives and info to update your assumption. You must take an active role in asking and finding out! Do not expect your manager to initiate this knowledge transfer. Do know wait for HR to tell you how it works. ** After the Episode** Register for Communication Strategies for Managers: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies For private coaching, or to have me lead a workshop, session, or training for your team: https://kimnicol.com/ Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

There's a perspective shift that happens when you step into a manager and leadership role. Instead of thinking, "I have to do it all", you begin to take a bigger view and ask, "How can all this get done?" You'll be thinking about how work is allocated, and what are the different strengths and qualities you have on the team. You'll start thinking about what strengths you and the team need to develop. And you'll make decisions about delegating and prioritizing work. See this as part of the skill set you will develop. And have some grace for yourself, if you feel a struggle to know when and how to delegate rather than just do it all yourself. Let's discuss! **After the Episode** The next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers starts in January! Register to join us: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies For private coaching, or to discuss a team session or off-site, visit my website: https://kimnicol.com/ Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

It's December now, and I'm feeling reflective about time passing. So, in today's episode I share some ideas to encourage your own reflection, and how doing so can help you show up more grounded at work. Resources mentioned in the episode: Upstream: Selected Essays by Mary Oliver https://maryoliver.com/prose/ If you're a fan of Mary Oliver, go listen to this iterview she gave back in 2015: https://onbeing.org/programs/mary-oliver-i-got-saved-by-the-beauty-of-the-world/ Year Compass: https://yearcompass.com/en/ **After the Episode** For private coaching, visit: https://kimnicol.com/ Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/ Communication Strategies for Managers: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies

The end of the year is a great time do a personal Year in Review. I'm using the Year Compass, and will share some of the questions to get you started. Let's discuss! **After the Episode** Download your own free Year Compass workbook: https://yearcompass.com/en/ Inquire about private coaching or team facilitation: https://kimnicol.com/https://kimnicol.com/ Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/ Sign up for Communication Strategies for Managers: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies

In the course of your career, you're likely to encounter some toxic traits at work. These can show up in any relationship and undermine trust, making it harder to work well together. The first step is to simply become aware of them: Criticism / Blame Contempt Defensiveness Stonewalling To address this, you'll need to: Increase your skill & capacity for dealing with conflict Be responsive, rather than reactive Let's discuss! **After the Episode** Inquire about personal coaching: ⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠ Register for Communication Strategies: ⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠ Follow me on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

It's the end of the year -- you might be feeling some overwhelm! In this episode I walk you through a mindfulness practice to try when you want to feel more grounded and calm. Let's discuss! ** After the Episode ** Join the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies Ask about private coaching: https://kimnicol.com/ Say hi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

Feeling overwhelmed about a situation, or uncertain about what to do next? Ask yourself these two questions to help organize your thinking and get clear on your next steps: What's the goal? What's your intention? When you take a breath, take a step back, and look at the bigger picture, the GOAL can help clarify what matters, and your INTENTION gives you direction for how to show up today. Let's discuss! **After the Episode** Sign up for the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies For private coaching or team facilitation, contact me through: https://kimnicol.com/ Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

Managers and leaders are always learning, and today's episode will walk you through a practice to help you learn through appreciative inquiry. **After the Episode** Free Class: Essential Skills for New Managers January 2025 dates released for Communication Strategies for Managers For private coaching and team facilitation, visit kimnicol.com Follow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kimnicol

There's a lot to learn about being a manager. To feel less overwhelmed by it all, focus on the essentials. You're invited to my free upcoming class on Essential Skills for New Managers, where you'll learn: 1) Where to start 2) What no one told you, and 3) How to advocate for yourself to get the support you want Let's discuss! **After the Episode** ⁠RSVP for Essential Skills for New Managers⁠. Visit my website: ⁠https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/⁠ ⁠Follow me on LinkedIn⁠.

Ever notice how being hard on yourself can make it harder to learn? The perfectionism and pressure to not make mistakes can really bog you down. Instead, be easy on yourself. In this episode I'll walk you through a series of questions to ask that will help you focus and make progress on one thing at a time. You'll increase your rate of learning, and reduce the feeling of overwhelm. Let's discuss! ** After the Episode ** Sign up for the Lightning Lesson on Essential Skills for New Managers: https://maven.com/p/8b3361/essential-skills-for-new-managers Get on the wait list for the next Communication Strategies course: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/ Reach out for private coaching, team facilitation and workshops: https://kimnicol.com/

Humans vary, and it's completely normal to experience friction in working relationships. Expect to feel frustrated when there are different perspectives, competing priorities, or a clash in working styles and preferences. Three things that will help you: Identify the real issue. Choose a strategy and next steps. Be ok being uncomfortable. Let's discuss! ** After the Episode ** Get on the wait list for the next Communication Strategies for Managers: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies Get private coaching: https://kimnicol.com/coaching/ Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

Feel like you've hit a career plateau? Listen to this conversation with career coach Wendy Saccuzzo for ideas how to handle it. We talk about: When feeling stuck is an inner thing, or an outer thing. The connection between career stage and life stage. Creating a vision for what you want. How to use a plateau to your advantage. Connect with Wendy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendysaccuzzo/ Or her website: https://www.aboutworkstuff.com/ Join an upcoming Career Conversation: https://lu.ma/conversationsaboutcareer ** After the Episode** Register for Communication Strategies for Managers: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies Reach out to Kim for private coaching or team-building sessions: https://kimnicol.com/ Follow Kim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

When you ask yourself "What makes a great team?", you must consider the variety of people you work with. That way, the concept of "great team" can become real -- and not just an abstract idea. What will make this team of people great? Remember that communication styles vary, so expect to adjust your approach depending on the person. That's one of the best ways for you to build trust and be effective, even when team composition changes. ** After the Episode** Register for Communication Strategies for Managers: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies Questions? Message me at: https://kimnicol.com/contact/ Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

Being an effective manager and a great leader requires learning new skills and ways of working. In this episode, I'll walk you through three things that will make it easier for you to learn, and to tap into your own creative thinking and inherent brilliance: Time Safety Simplicity ** After the Episode** For private coaching, or to talk with me about how I can support your team during a workshop or offsite, visit my website: https://kimnicol.com/ Join my upcoming course on Communication Strategies for Managers: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

These are foundational for any manager: Clarify what makes a good manager. Identify what makes communication effective. Design meetings and 1:1s, to use your time better. Do feedback better: giving, receiving, and requesting. Speak up, advocate, and set boundaries. Plan for performance reviews, facilitating change and having tough conversations. Manage up. ** After the Episode ** Register for my upcoming course, Communication Strategies for Managers https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/ Contact me for private coaching, team training or workshops: https://kimnicol.com/

Most of how work gets done is through communication. Every day you're speaking up in meetings, delivering presentations, fielding interruptions, and responding to emails, chats, and DMs. To get out of feeling overwhelmed and, instead, feel more confident in getting things done, you want to take a step back and have some intentional communication strategies. Let's discuss! ** After the Episode ** Enrollment is open! Register for the upcoming course on Communication Strategies for Managers: https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/ Visit my website: https://kimnicol.com/

Being on a leadership journey requires both personal growth and professional development. The way you did things in the past, does not mean it's the best way to do things now. Learning how to look with new eyes, take a new approach, and try a new way is part of the job! In this episode, find out why you might say YES all the time (and why it's hard to say NO). Especially when you're a hard worker, and care deeply about those who are depending on you. ** After the Episode ** Watch the video clip of this teaching on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/kimnicol_why-do-i-say-yes-to-everything-i-end-up-activity-7228192997115379712-ZS44 Join the Wait List for the next group program: https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ Get private coaching: https://kimnicol.com/coaching/ Learn more at: https://kimnicol.com/ Follow Kim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

What can a new manager learn about leadership by watching the Olympics? Plenty! Three lessons that will help you be more effective in managing your team: Powerful teams have diverse strengths. Get curious about the strengths on your team -- in yourself. Excellence doesn't look one way. So don't compare yourself to others and assume your leadership style has to like theirs. Have fun and celebrate! You can work hard and enjoy yourself along the way. Celebration helps boost connection and appreciation. Look beyond your team, to others in your org and professional ecosystem. ** After the Episode** Join the Wait List for the next group program: https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ Get private coaching: https://calendly.com/kimnicol/consultation Learn more at: https://kimnicol.com/ Follow Kim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

Feel uncomfortable having money conversations? Not sure what to do if someone on your team asks for a raise? Being a manager means learning more about money at work. First, bring a mindset of curiosity. By asking questions, you will build relationships, and learn more about power and influence in your org. You will also develop a more connected perspective, understanding how different decisions and budgets affect you and your team. Three specific areas to learn about: Budgets Raises + Bonuses (Compensation) How does money come into your org? Let's discuss! * * After the Episode * * Join the Wait List for the next group program: https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ Get private coaching: https://calendly.com/kimnicol/consultation Learn more at https://kimnicol.com/

You're going to face uncertainty. In your work, throughout your career, and in your life. Being a manager doesn't mean you always know exactly what to do -- yet you still need to lead. Today, let's talk about Three Tips for Uncertainty that will help you when you feel anxious about what's next. Be Curious / Follow the Vibe. Set an Intention. Bring Friends. For more information about Caux Forum, visit https://www.iofc.ch/ After the Episode Join the next free Career Conversation on July 25: https://lu.ma/o4dc7lfa Join the Wait List for the next group program: https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ Apply for private coaching and get individual, customized support for your life, career, and leadership journey: https://kimnicol.com/

What does it mean to lead people first? And where do you start when there are so many skills to learn as a new manager and leader? Listen to this conversation with Chris Lin, Sr. Learning and Development Manager and host of Leading People First, and Kim Nicol, coach and host of The New Manager Podcast. After the Episode: Find Chris Lin through his website: https://www.leadingpeoplefirst.com/ Or follow Chris on LinkedIn. Join the Wait List for updates on the next Group Program with Kim: https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ Apply for private coaching and get individual support for your life, career, and leadership journey: https://kimnicol.com/coaching/ Follow Kim on LinkedIn.

Why is it helpful to know about neurodiversity, if you're a manager? Because no two brains are alike! And it's estimated that 20% of the population is neurodivergent. Terri Donohue is a neurospicy coach and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion consultant. In this guest episode, she demystifies neurodiversity. Listen to find out why understanding the basics can make you a more effective manager. After the Episode Terri's website: https://terridonohue.com/ Terri co-hosts the Neurodivergently Coaching podcast, which you can listen to on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts! Learn more about the Caux Forum. Join the Wait List for the next Group Program with Kim: https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ Apply for private coaching and get individualized support for your life, career, and leadership: https://kimnicol.com/coaching/

Save this episode to your communication skills toolbox! Great communication makes everything easier. Over-explaining can cause the listener to tune out or get lost and confused. Here are four reasons why you might over-explain: 1) Desire to be comprehensive and thorough. 2) Building your case, in fear that you'll be challenged or not taken seriously. 3) Avoiding confrontation, and feeling uncomfortable being direct 4) Lateral or Associative thinker, seeing how all the things connect, and not organizing information in advance for your audience Instead, start with the main point or topic. Then offer some context (not all!) -- knowing they can always ask for more. Take some time to plan your communication ahead of time based on: 1) Your audience 2) Your goal or desired outcome 3) Your environment or context When you take this approach, you will more effectively manage their attention and focus towards your goal. It makes it easier for them to follow you -- making you seem more organized and confident. After the Episode: Join the Wait List to learn about the next group program: https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ Apply for private coaching and get individualized support for your personal and professional growth: https://kimnicol.com/coaching/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kimnicol/message

When you're clear on what success means as a manager, you will have an easier time focusing on what matters and letting the rest go. This can be tricky at first, especially when you care a lot and are a high-achiever. The uncertainty of what "success" means can be frustrating and anxiety provoking. In this episode, you'll hear two questions to help you define what success means -- to you -- as a manager. Let's discuss! After the episode: Support your personal growth and professional development with 1:1 coaching: https://kimnicol.com/ Get on the Wait List for the next group program: https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kimnicol/message

Add this to your toolkit for when you're feeling overwhelmed, or asking yourself "What should I do?" Take a step back, take a breath, and ask: "What is your role?" When you care a lot, it's easy to overextend yourself, avoid difficult conversations, and overly focus on how everyone else is feeling. By considering your role here, you will get more clarity -- while also being responsive to changing situations and relationships. Let's discuss! After the episode: Join the Wait List for the next group program, https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ Get 1:1 coaching, https://kimnicol.com/coaching/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kimnicol/message

No matter where you are in the organization, it's helpful to think about managing up. (Even if you are the Executive Director or CEO, you might still manage up to the Board!) Start with awareness of the power dynamic and power differential -- which can vary widely depending on the organizational culture (is it super hierarchical? or more flat?) and the personalities involved. Ask yourself: What do I know about this person? How to they measure success? What do they care about? Prioritize? Then think about it through the lens of partnership: what are your roles, and how can you work well together? Let's discuss! After the Episode: The continuing education class I mentioned on Trauma Informed Leadership: A Guide for All Managers, starts June 19th! Listen to Ep. 147. Ask - What New Managers Need to Know about Making an Ask Schedule a consult to discuss 1:1 coaching: https://calendly.com/kimnicol/consultation Sign up for the group program Wait List: https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kimnicol/message

If you find yourself suddenly having to lead a team through hard times, this is for you. Layoffs are hard on everyone -- including those left behind, who are grieving the loss of their teammates, fearing for their own job security, and feeling betrayed or mistrustful of upper management and leadership. When things feel out of your control, the ideas here will help ground you and give you an idea for how to approach the new reality in a human-centered way. After the Episode: For 1:1 coaching to support your growth as a leader (and human), schedule a consult: https://calendly.com/kimnicol/consultation Can't find a time that works? Or do you want to be invited to the next group program? Join the Wait List: https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ Request a topic for the podcast! Spotify listeners: leave a comment on the episode. Or send a message at: https://kimnicol.com/contact/ Follow Kim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kimnicol/message

If you're a good problem-solver, chances are you spend a lot of time looking at. . . problems. This week, ask yourself, "What's working?" To be an effective manager and an inspired leader, you want to have an accurate picture of the situation -- which means being just as mindful of the strengths and positive qualities that you are your team possess as you are aware of the challenges. This will also help you build trust and good-will, and set you up for success later on in the year when it comes time to do performance reviews. In this episode you'll learn why it's easy to overlook the good stuff, and you'll get some specific strategies to help you refocus your attention. Let's discuss! After the episode: For 1:1 coaching customized for your situation and goals, visit https://kimnicol.com/ or schedule a consult at https://calendly.com/kimnicol/consultation Join the waitlist for invitations to workshops, classes, and programs: https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kimnicol/message

Good leaders and effective managers think about strategy. They consider the desired outcome or goal, and then make decisions based on the available resources and assets, constraints and obstacles. Plus, when you become more strategic, you will feel less reactive to other people's urgency. To develop this skill, start by understanding your own strategies. Why are you doing things the way you are doing them? In this episode, you'll learn a simple practice that will help you begin to see your own strategies in daily life. Increase your self-awareness, and you'll become more intentional about the strategies you want to put into practice at work. Let's discuss! After the Episode: For 1:1 coaching, go to https://kimnicol.com/ Or book a consult: https://calendly.com/kimnicol/consultation Get on the list for future workshops and programs: https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kimnicol/message

Learn some practical strategies for communicating your point of view. You want to understand you options, because different relationships and situations will require different approaches. You will be more influential as a leader and manager when you consider nuance and options in how you choose to communicate. If you get uncomfortable with dis-harmony, conflict, or confrontation, you will love this episode. Lets discuss! After the episode: Get personalized coaching: https://kimnicol.com/ Or go straight to my calendar to schedule a consult and discuss your situation and goals: https://calendly.com/kimnicol/consultation To get invited to classes and more, join the Wait List at https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kimnicol/message

When you rise to higher levels of leadership and people management, expect to be invited to more meetings. If you feel like you're not sure when to get work done, because meetings have taken over your calendar, then today's episode will help! You'll learn a simple process you can use today to re-evaluate your meetings, so you can find small ways to make them much better. You may also need to reconsider which meetings you attend, and which you decline or delegate. Just because you're invited, doesn't mean you have to go. Let's discuss! After the Episode: For 1:1 leadership coaching, visit my website and schedule a free consult: https://kimnicol.com/ To learn about the Group Program, get on the Wait List here: https://kimnicol.com/newmanagers/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kimnicol/message

You can find the most valuable lessons on being an effective manager and leader from experiences you have outside of your regular work. A side quest (or side hustle) can help you tap into strengths and develop abilities that you can then bring, more intentionally, to your job. In today's episode I share the story of my time as a fitness instructor, and how it helped make me a better Director in my corporate job. Let's discuss! After the Episode: RSVP for Career Conversation: Pivots + Side Hustles on April 25. Learn about coaching with me or book a consult. Follow me on LinkedIn or TikTok! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kimnicol/message

Think about your career and work as being part of an ecosystem. It will give you a useful perspective for addressing problems you face as a manager and leader. Let's discuss! After the episode: Join the next Career Conversation: Pivots + Side Hustles. RSVP here: https://lu.ma/hswnn6lv Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/ For 1:1 coaching, book a consult: https://calendly.com/kimnicol/consultation https://kimnicol.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kimnicol/message

Bonus episode with *video* and an invitation! Join me and career coach Wendy Saccuzzo for a live (on Zoom) Career Conversation on Pivots and Side Hustles. One of the inspirations behind this podcast is the experience I had over 12 years ago, when I was promoted to a Director role and started managing a team of my peers. There wasn't much guidance or training available to me as a new manager, and it's one reason I started teaching Essential Skills for New Managers, which then led to this podcast. My career journey has had a number of pivots (I've been a lawyer, a yoga teacher, and a public speaking trainer). Now I work full-time as a coach in private practice, but looking back I can see how my side-hustles helped me become a better manager, a more inspired leader, and led me to work I really love. This free✨ live (on Zoom) event is on Thursday, April 25, at 9am Pacific Time. RSVP here: https://lu.ma/hswnn6lv If you'd like to explore 1:1 coaching with me, book a consult and let's talk about it. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kimnicol/message

There will be times at work when you wonder, "WTF are they doing?!?" When you're a manger you might wonder this about someone on your team who reports to you, or your own manager and leadership team. Instead of saying that out loud, however, try asking this question instead: "What are you trying to solve for?" You want a better picture of how this person is thinking and seeing -- because that is what drives their choices and actions. Using this question will help you illuminate their intentions and the perspective behind their behaviors. This episode breaks down why that question is so effective, especially when you're working with someone who might get defensive easily or who might be in a position of formal power over you. Instead of feeling confused or frustrated, try using this question instead and see what happens. Other episodes referenced: Ep. 129 - "Walk me through" Ep. 110 - Identify the Problem After the episode: For 1:1 coaching, book a consult to meet with Kim and discuss your situation and goals: https://calendly.com/kimnicol/consultation Get on the Wait List for the Group Program -- Visit my website: https://kimnicol.com/ Say hi on LinkedIn --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kimnicol/message

As an individual contributor, your role is to be good at your specific task or function. As a manager and leader, your role shifts -- and now you're making more decisions. When you understand how to make decisions, you'll feel more confident and less drained. In this episode you'll learn: Signs you might be avoiding a decision The real cost of "keeping your options open" Why the freedom of making a decisions feels better than the freedom of not deciding After the Episode: To discuss your situation and goals with Kim and learn how 1:1 coaching can help, book a consult. Join the Wait List for the group program, and get invited to upcoming workshops. Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kimnicol/message