#JK - Overlapping Interests

By John R. Nocero & Katie Kretz

JRN: I posted something the other day about how interests in one area can overlap into another and while someone might not be interested in a specific topic, they can understand the correlation and then relate it to a specific point within their life. Case in point – let’s say you play RPGs. And your character makes a ton of twists and turns during a story arc – whether to go into a cave, fight the wizard to reclaim the decahedron and leave victorious with a satchel of gold coins over your shoulder. Now, someone might not be into RPGs, but they understand the concept of basic decision-making. Consequences have consequences; those consequences have consequences, this decision impacts the next five you make down the road. In short, everything you do matters. Now, I know you are passionate about parenting, and I am curious, do you see a relationship between parenting and leading or managing your team? Do you treat everyone the same, rules beget rules and what-have-you.

 KK, thoughts?

 KK: Well, John. I thought you’d never ask. 

 I’ve been given the greatest privilege of being a parent. And while the teams of people that we manage are not children, there is a strong parallel between raising well-adjusted, productive kids and happy, high-performing employees. The commitment, responsibility, and effort to be the best parent is not dissimilar from what it takes to be a great manager. Good parents and good managers are emotionally invested in those for whom they are responsible. They care deeply about the people they are charged with and want what is absolutely best for them. Great leaders and great parents establish a framework - based on values, not on rules, they coach and train, they do what they can to create opportunities while removing obstacles, they make them feel safe and allow autonomy but maintain accountability. Which brings me to acknowledging that you absolutely can’t treat everyone the same. Simply because - not everyone is the same. However, once you truly know each team member (similarly to knowing your children) you begin to understand on a whole new level how you can best contribute to their growth and development. As my journey continues through parenthood and leadership, I will certainly face more obstacles and challenges. But, it’s safe to say that a great leader should make a great parent and vice versa.