Connected Teamwork: A Playbook for Mastery, Fulfillment, Passion and Purpose feat. Jeff L. Herrmann

The ability to build and nurture strong connections within a team is essential for success. In this episode of the Connected Teamwork Podcast, Jeff L. Herrmann, a senior leader in a global organization, shares his insights on building connectedness within teams. He offers a unique perspective, drawing from his experience as an innovator in the sales space and a seasoned leader in various roles.

The Importance of Building Connectedness:

Connectedness within a team is not just a nice-to-have; it’s a fundamental requirement, especially in today’s highly remote and globalized work environment. Jeff highlights the significance of having a shared mission and clarity in team goals. In his role, where he collaborates with teammates in various time zones, building strong relationships despite the virtual barrier is essential. He emphasizes that understanding and acknowledging the personal lives and cultural differences of team members is crucial for fostering empathy within the team.

Thinking Like a Media Publisher:

Jeff introduces the concept of thinking like a media publisher when it comes to team communication. Just as a media publisher delivers content consistently to a target audience, teams should establish a process, rhythm, and reporting mechanism to keep the team connected. This approach involves constant reminders and reinforcement of the team’s strategy, goals, and shared values. The use of collaboration tools, such as Viva Engage, allows for effective communication and engagement across time zones.

Inspiring Hustle with Empathy:

While Jeff’s enthusiasm and passion for his work are infectious, he acknowledges the importance of finding a balance. He realizes that not everyone shares the same level of enthusiasm for working late hours or attending calls at odd times. The key to inspiring hustle in others while staying empathetic is to understand that not everyone’s priorities align with your own. It’s about conveying the importance of the work and its impact on both the business and individual roles. He also stresses the significance of discipline, setting up a process, and having a strong feedback loop to maintain the hustle without burning out.

Mastery of Craft and Helping Others:

Mastery of one’s craft is a continuous journey. Jeff highlights the importance of setting both long-term goals and smaller milestones to achieve that mastery. Celebrating the small wins along the way is crucial for staying motivated. Moreover, he emphasizes the need for mentors and peers to provide feedback and keep you on track. Additionally, Jeff suggests that alignment with your goals and passion is essential for staying connected and fulfilled in your career. He also encourages being open to learning from peers, colleagues, and clients.

Lessons Learned:

Jeff shares some of the lessons he has learned during his career. He believes in the power of alignment and making sure that everyone is on the same page. Misalignment can sometimes lead to talented individuals being in the wrong roles, which is detrimental for both the individual and the team. Recognizing this and making necessary changes can be essential for building a cohesive and effective team.

Building Consensus:

While consensus is important, Jeff suggests that it’s not about always reaching a unanimous agreement. Instead, it’s about ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard and respected. The key is to make intentional decisions, even when there are differing opinions, to keep the team moving forward.

Conclusion:

In the world of connected teamwork, the ability to build, maintain, and nurture connections within a team is crucial. Jeff L. Herrmann’s insights shed light on the importance of discipline, setting clear processes, and maintaining empathy while inspiring hustle in a team. Furthermore, the podcast highlights the significance of constant learning, alignment, and the role of a connector in any organization.

As you reflect on these insights, consider how you can apply them to your team, and don’t forget to celebrate the small wins along the way. Building connectedness is an ongoing process, and as Jeff emphasizes, it’s essential to keep learning and adapting to the changing dynamics of your team.