Why Leaders Struggle to Establish Meaningful Connections & Encounter Difficulties in Interactions With Colleagues

Collaboration and working well with others are essential skills in the corporate environment. However, some individuals struggle to establish meaningful connections and encounter difficulties in their interactions with colleagues. In many cases, the root cause of these people problems lies in a lack of self-awareness about one's own social skills. This mini case study explores the challenges faced by individuals who operate with only one mode of operation and highlights the importance of self-awareness in fostering productive relationships.

The Illusion of "Just Listen and Follow Instructions"

Jen, a senior leader with limited self-awareness, once remarked that work would be a breeze if people simply listened and followed her instructions. Unfortunately, this narrow perspective fails to recognize the inherent need for collaboration and partnership in achieving organizational goals. In any corporate environment, various departments rely on each other to drive results, highlighting the necessity of valuing different perspectives and work styles.

The Role of Self-Awareness

Jen's struggles with interpersonal skills and her reputation for bluntness demonstrate the impact of a lack of self-awareness. 360-degree feedback revealed that she was feared, impatient, self-centered, and too honest.? Without realizing it, she prioritized her own desires, resulting in fractured relationships both at work and at home. However, through coaching and self-reflection, Jen embarked on a journey of self-discovery and understanding.

Gaining Self-Awareness and Navigating Relationships

Jen's transformation began with understanding her own communication style and recognizing its effects on others. By developing self-awareness, she was able to appreciate and navigate relationships with individuals who had different styles. This newfound knowledge allowed Jen to soften her communication and exercise more patience when interacting with her colleagues.

Valuing and Recognizing Different Work Styles

Another crucial aspect of self-awareness is acknowledging that everyone possesses unique strengths and weaknesses. Jen's growth involved learning to appreciate the diverse work styles of her colleagues, as well as recognizing her own limitations. This shift in mindset helped her foster a collaborative environment where each team member's contributions were valued.

Managing Triggers and Improving Relationships

One of the key discoveries made by Jen was the importance of identifying and managing personal triggers. By recognizing situations that caused her frustration, she found new ways to channel her emotions productively. This allowed her to positively influence others, resulting in improved relationships, not only at work but also in her personal life.

Developing self-awareness is the first step toward building strong relationships and successful collaborations. Jen's story serves as a reminder that people problems often stem from an individual's own beliefs and assumptions rather than purely external factors. By understanding one's communication style, appreciating different work styles, and managing personal triggers, one can forge meaningful connections and influence others positively. Ultimately, self-awareness empowers individuals to navigate the challenges of collaboration, leading to personal growth and improved outcomes.

For more help on building self-awareness, read: How Leaders Can Uncover Their Blind Spots in Three Steps