8 Things Leaders At Google Do Differently

The following initiatives emphasize leadership development, collaboration, and a culture of innovation, helping Google maintain its technical dominance and foster a dynamic leadership landscape.

1. Peer-to-Peer Coaching: Establishing programs where leaders can coach one another, sharing insights and best practices in a collaborative setting.
2. Innovation Time Off: Allowing leaders to dedicate time to pursue personal projects or explore innovative ideas outside their regular responsibilities.
3. Leadership Circles: Creating small groups of leaders from various departments to discuss challenges, brainstorm solutions, and share experiences.
4. Diversity and Inclusion Workshops: Facilitating workshops that equip leaders with tools to foster an inclusive environment and address biases.
5. Employee Spotlights: Highlighting individual contributions through internal communications to celebrate leadership successes and motivate others.
6. Storytelling Sessions: Organizing events where leaders share personal stories related to their leadership journeys, promoting connection and inspiration.
7. Action Learning Projects: Implementing real-world challenges where leaders work together to solve problems, enhancing collaboration and innovation.
8. Wellness Retreats: Retreats focused on personal and professional development, including mindfulness and stress management techniques.

BONUS

1. Creative Brainstorming Events: Hosting events designed for leaders to think outside the box and generate new ideas for business challenges.
2. Book Clubs: Organizing book clubs centered around leadership and innovation literature, fostering discussion and shared learning.
3. Cross-Departmental Job Shadowing: Allowing leaders to shadow colleagues in different departments to gain new perspectives and insights.
4. Regular “Ask Me Anything” Sessions: Hosting open forums where leaders can address questions and concerns from their teams, promoting transparency.
5. Feedback Exchange Days: Dedicating specific days for leaders to exchange feedback with their teams in a structured and supportive environment.
6. Visioning Workshops: Conducting workshops that help leaders articulate and refine their long-term vision for their teams and projects.
7. Recognition Programs for Risk-Taking: Establishing awards or recognition for leaders who take calculated risks and drive innovative initiatives, reinforcing a culture of experimentation.