From Rookie to Rockstar: Kristine Engman on Her Journey to Building High-Performing Teams

Authenticity is the name of the game in leadership, and today we’re diving deep into what that really means. We're chatting with Kristine Engman, a total rockstar in building high-performing teams, and trust me, she’s got some solid gold nuggets of wisdom to share. We tackle the idea that being vulnerable as a leader can actually pack a punch in building trust and connection within your team—definitely easier said than done, right? Plus, we explore how knowing your team on a personal level sets the stage for a thriving environment where everyone feels valued and heard. So, if you've ever wondered how to step up your leadership game and create a killer team dynamic, you’re in for a treat!

Diving deep into the world of leadership, this episode serves up a hearty discussion on authenticity and vulnerability in the workplace, with Kristine Engman sharing her journey from intern to a powerhouse in the corporate world. We kick things off with a chat about the importance of showing up as your true self – a mantra that sounds easy but can be as tough as nails in practice. Kristine emphasizes that being a leader doesn't mean you have to put on a facade; instead, embracing vulnerability can foster genuine connections with your team. She shares personal anecdotes from her career where being authentic not only helped her navigate challenges but also encouraged her team to do the same. Authenticity, she argues, is the secret sauce to building a high-performing team, where everyone feels valued and understood.

As the conversation rolls on, we explore the nuances of leadership styles, particularly the balance between leading from a place of expertise versus managing teams in unfamiliar territory. Kristine recounts her experiences transitioning from a trading role into management, highlighting how stepping outside of her comfort zone allowed her to grow as a leader. She reflects on the significant lessons learned about trust and listening, pointing out how essential it is for leaders to genuinely understand their team members' strengths and weaknesses. This segment is packed with wisdom for anyone looking to improve their leadership game, stressing that the key to success lies in fostering open lines of communication and building relationships grounded in respect and understanding.

Finally, we wrap up with some practical advice for leaders and their supporters. Kristine stresses the importance of being available and approachable, highlighting that leaders should carve out time to listen to their teams – a move that can transform workplace dynamics. She suggests creating structured opportunities for feedback and connection that make team members feel heard and valued. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone aiming to elevate their leadership skills and cultivate a thriving team culture, reminding us all that in the end, leadership is about people, not just processes.

Takeaways:

• Being your authentic self is key in leadership, but it's easier said than done, right?
• Vulnerability as a leader can be super powerful, but many leaders shy away from it.
• Building high-performing teams starts with knowing your people—what they love and hate about their jobs.
• Communicating effectively means being available and ready to connect with your team members.
• Engaging your team in setting stretch goals can truly elevate performance beyond what they think they can achieve.
• A good leader balances short-term results with long-term vision, ensuring sustainable growth for the team.

Links:

• Kristine's Linked In Page
• Kent's Linked In Page

**Music for this podcast comes from the song Needle & Thread and is...