Episode recap:
Today’s show focused on workforce transformation and employee engagement, featuring lively discussions with Kristian Gaetano from Achievers and Janelle Jordan from GoDaddy. They explored the importance of recognition in driving employee engagement, the impact of AI-powered recognition tools on organizational culture, and strategies for creating inclusive work environments. The conversation covered personal leadership practices, successful recognition initiatives, and the transformative power of feedback in fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion.
Guest Bio:
As COO of Achievers, Kristian Gaetano leads all post-sales functions, ensuring customers receive exceptional experiences and long-term value. His focus is on delivering for customers, building a world-class team, and driving customer retention and growth
As Sr. Program Manager, Employee Experience, GoDaddy, Janelle Jordan is passionate about building positive workplace cultures. In her current role, she leads efforts to boost engagement, recognition, and diversity, including GoDaddy’s global recognition program, Everyday Champions (EDC), and its employee resource groups
Quotes:
“What gets recognized gets repeated... Recognition doesn’t just help us feel good—it actually helps employees feel and contribute more to their organization.” – Kristian Gaetano “Feedback is a gift, and it's also a skill. It’s powerful for leaders and individual contributors to learn how to be better at giving and receiving feedback—both positive.” – Janelle Jordan
Key Takeaways:
- Practice daily recognition—even a simple message can have a big impact.
- Ask team members how they prefer to be recognized for more personalized appreciation.
- Reflect on your leadership style to identify triggers and lead with empathy.
- Make recognition more visible and meaningful within your team or organization.
- Start tracking the business impact of recognition on engagement, retention, and performance.
Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Book Announcement 00:47 Welcome to the Love in Action Podcast 01:21 Today's Topic: Workforce Transformation 01:53 Meet the Guests: Kristian and Janelle 03:46 Janelle's Leadership Journey 05:44 Kristian's Leadership Journey 07:07 The Importance of Recognition 09:30 Empathy and Leadership 12:38 GoDaddy's Values and Recognition 14:43 Challenges Faced by Managers 20:46 Success Stories and Impact of Recognition 27:20 The Role of ERGs at GoDaddy 30:03 Leading with Humanity, Love, and Trust 32:32 Final Thoughts and Takeaways 35:23 Closing Remarks
Conclusion: Recognition isn’t just about feeling good—it’s a driver of performance, engagement, and retention. When people feel seen and appreciated, they’re more motivated, productive, and likely to support their peers. Empathetic leadership and consistent, meaningful feedback create the kind of culture where people thrive. Treat people like people—not just roles—and lasting success will follow.
Resources:
- Achievers on LinkedIn
- Achievers Website
- GoDaddy
- GoDaddy Life Blog
- GoDaddy Life on Instagram
- Kristian Gaetano on LinkedIn
- Janelle Jordan on LinkedIn
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