The Friction Project: Bob Sutton's Guide to Smarter Leadership

I recently connected with organizational behavior expert Bob Sutton to discuss the hidden forces shaping our workplaces and how smart leaders can harness them for good.

You can listen here now: https://bit.ly/bsdoisdf .

Bob's insights blew me away, and I can't wait to share them with you!

• Not all friction is bad: Bob revealed that some friction actually improves outcomes. The key is distinguishing between good friction (like thoughtful decision-making processes) and bad friction (like unnecessary bureaucracy).
• Addition isn't always the answer: We often try to solve problems by adding more – more people, more processes, more software. Bob showed how subtraction can be a powerful tool for improving organizational effectiveness.
• Trust trumps control: Companies like NVIDIA are thriving by trusting their employees rather than micromanaging them. This approach reduces friction and boosts productivity.
• Beware of "jargon monoxide": Unclear communication suffocates productivity. Bob shared strategies for cutting through the fog and promoting clarity in your organization.
• Savoring matters: In our rush to be efficient, we often forget to appreciate our work and our colleagues. Bob explained how strategic slowness can lead to better outcomes and more fulfilling work lives.

Beyond these points, Bob also discussed the importance of self-awareness for leaders, the power of simplicity in organizational design, and how to create a culture that naturally weeds out bad behavior.

I left this conversation with a new perspective on leadership and a toolkit for creating more effective, humane workplaces. Whether you're a CEO, a team leader, or an individual contributor, Bob's wisdom will change how you think about your role in your organization.

Don't miss this episode! It's a masterclass in smart leadership for the modern age. Listen now and start transforming your workplace today: https://bit.ly/bsdoisdf

Let's make our organizations remarkable, one friction point at a time!

Mahalo,

Guy