Helping Leaders and Teams truly connect
Making sure that the team gets the opportunity to better know and understand their leader, but also to share back expectations and feedback towards the leader. It's important to create a space that breaths vulnerability and openness.
Duration: 1 hour
Material: sticky notes, pen, a wall
Preparation: Instruct the leader up front to prepare for this and make sure he/she has a story to tell
Timings:
15' Leader set the stage around his/her leadership style
30' discussion in group about the leader (without the leader being present in the room)
15' gift of feedback to the leader (done by the facilitator)
Facilitation: done by the Facilitator(s) on flipover or on the wall (popcorn style)
Leader Introduction (Leaders tells his/her story):
This step is crucial as it allows the new leader to share their background, personal journey, and professional experiences.
The leader also shares their leadership philosophy, values, and their vision for the team’s future.
Leader Steps Away (and out of the room):
This step encourages honest and open dialogue among the team members about their perceptions, expectations, and potential concerns regarding the new leader.
Emphasize brave space so team feels comfortable to speak freely during this time.
Facilitator Gathers Feedback (Facilitator writes):
Guide for constructive feedback and focus on feedback that is useful for both the leader and the team.
Feedback should be framed positively and constructively to foster a collaborative atmosphere.
Presenting Feedback with the Leader Present (Facilitator shares the input of the team in his/her language):
Share feedback as a constructive gift from the team.
Summarize key themes or patterns in the feedback to make it actionable.
Leader Thanks the Group (Leaders reacts to feedback):
Leader expresses gratitude and demonstrates their commitment to an open and collaborative relationship with the team.
The leader can also share a few initial thoughts on the feedback and outline any immediate steps he/she plan to take in response.
What were your first impressions when hearing about the new leader?
What qualities do you think are most important in a leader for our team?
What are your expectations from the new leader in terms of team dynamics and performance?
Are there any concerns or reservations you have about this leadership transition?
What are some things you are hopeful about with our new leader joining the team?
What are the potential challenges you foresee during this transition, and how can we work together to address them?
What specific actions or behaviors would you like to see from our new leader that would help in building trust and collaboration?
Can you share examples of leadership styles or behaviors from past leaders that worked well for this team?
In what ways can the new leader support your personal and professional growth within the team?
What successes or strengths within the team should the new leader be aware of and continue to support?
Are there any areas or processes within the team that you think need improvement or change?
How do you prefer to receive feedback and communication from a leader?
What aspects of our team culture are you proud of and believe should be maintained?
Are there any unwritten rules or norms within our team that the new leader should know about?
How do we celebrate successes and handle setbacks within the team?