Sometimes things just have to be done, right?

To stay connected with others, it is essential to respect their autonomy. This triggers a reaction from many participants in our trainings: ‘Sometimes things just have to be done, right?’.

The emphasis on respecting other people’s autonomy is not about abolishing norms. Rather, it marks the start of a dialogue in which the other person is heard and norms are clarified when needed.

Why is autonomy so important?

Having the choice whether or not to do something, and having a say in how things are done, allows us to focus our energy. It gives us the chance to channel our creativity towards things we genuinely care about.

When that requires an extra effort, it doesn’t lead to exhaustion so quickly. Instead, it brings a sense of satisfaction. Although we still need to keep an eye on the total package of choices we make in our lives.

Finding a healthy balance in meeting different needs

Some leaders fear that employees, if given the choice, will only look after their own comfort.

However, employee wellbeing is not just about personal needs. It equally depends on the fulfilment of interpersonal needs such as reciprocity, respect, cooperation, and trust. These interpersonal needs show how we as human beings are interdependent.

It takes real skill as a leader to respond to situations where this balance between personal and interpersonal needs is off. But it is also a great relief when employees make their own choices, take responsibility and bring their creativity to bear within the space provided.

Connecting Communication offers a framework for working on this balancing act together and getting employees on board with a shared goal. It helps people stand in their strength and develop the drive to grow and give their best.

Connecting Leadership = leading with respect for the need for autonomy

In the Connecting Leadership programme, we translate Connecting Communication into the daily practice of managers, team leaders or coaches. We focus on organisational aspects as well as communication with teams and individuals. The central question is how you inspire people to contribute to the organisation’s mission from a place of passion.

Connecting Leadership leads to optimal use of talents, a context in which employees want to give their best, and the ability to harness the collective intelligence of their team.

The Connecting Leadership programme

In concrete terms, the four-day Connecting Leadership programme is built around the following themes:

• Communicating efficiently and connectingly, grounded in respect and emotional intelligence;
• Developing a mission and vision that motivates people to contribute;
• Formulating objectives that give employees clarity on how they can contribute their talent and live out their own passion;
• Giving clear feedback that stimulates people to perform at their best;
• Using empathy to stay in touch with what matters to others;
• Resolving conflicts in a sustainable way by combining connecting honesty with empathic listening;
• Connecting Decision-Making: making agreements with groups, developing concepts that create lasting added value, and stimulating collective intelligence through simple principles.

What we guarantee

After a Connecting Leadership programme we guarantee:

• More enjoyment in leading and greater job satisfaction for your employees;
• More quality and efficiency within your organisation or company;
• Time savings in decision-making and higher quality decisions;
• A return on investment within six months.

Interested in the Connecting Leadership programme?

Then be sure to check out our open programme offerings.