The New Manager Podcast

"Increase your power and influence with this one weird trick. . ." Seriously, though: make it a practice to pause and slow down. It seems counterintuitive when faced with outer urgency and an inner drive to work hard. But there are real advantages to taking a pause. It's true for athletes (rest builds strength, as does interval training), and it's true for managers at work....After the EpisodeFree download: Make Feedback Meaningfulhttps://maven.com/p/e36395/make-feedback-meaningful-print-fold-zine~Strengthen your communication skills and strategic thinking:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies~Learn to use The Gentle No and say no without feeling bad:https://maven.com/kimnicol/the-gentle-no~Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching:https://kimnicol.com/

If you're an "I can do it myself!" person, then you might not have much practice in asking for help. This episode is for you....After the EpisodeFree download: Make Feedback Meaningfulhttps://maven.com/p/e36395/make-feedback-meaningful-print-fold-zine~Strengthen your communication skills and strategic thinking:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies~Learn to use The Gentle No and say no without feeling bad:https://maven.com/kimnicol/the-gentle-no~Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching:https://kimnicol.com/

Every leader has an underlying philosophy that shapes their decisions, actions, and approach to the work. Not sure where to start? Ask others about theirs...Resources mentioned in this episode:Dr. Frances Frei's Office Hours LIVE...After the EpisodeFree download: Make Feedback Meaningful~Strengthen your communication skills and strategic thinking.~Learn to use The Gentle No to say no without feeling bad.~Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching.

The latest Global State of the Workplace Report by Gallup came out, and they're reporting lower levels of engagement worldwide. One thing that helps? Meaningful feedback. And one key part of that? Future focused feedback.Plus: you can now download your own copy of the Make Feedback meaningful zine!.Resources mentioned in this episode:Free download:https://maven.com/p/e36395/make-feedback-meaningful-print-fold-zine--Watch the video tutorial:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=te2lJzYc954--Read the Gallup State of the Global Workplace 2026 report:https://www.gallup.com/workplace/349484/state-of-the-global-workplace.aspx--Read the study on Future Focused Feedback:https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0234444...After the EpisodeStrengthen your communication skills and strategic thinking:⁠⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠⁠~Learn how to say No, without feeling bad:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/the-gentle-no⁠~Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠

This week, take a breath and savor the wins. There will always be more work to be done. And even when things are going well, it can feel scary -- the feeling that there's more to lose, or that you'll let people down, can increase in the best of times.So make an intentional practice: savor the wins, whether they are small or clearly visible for all to see...Is there a topic you'd like to see covered in an upcoming episode? Leave a note below! Or send me a message on LinkedIn....After the EpisodeStrengthen your communication skills and strategic thinking:⁠⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠⁠~Develop your skills at saying No, without feeling bad:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/the-gentle-no⁠~Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠

Being a manager isn't glamorous. If things are feeling heavy, like you're stuck in a thankless grind, have a listen....After the EpisodeJoin the upcoming class of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠⁠~Develop your skills at saying No, without feeling bad:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/the-gentle-no⁠~Find me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠

Today I share my biggest take-away from attending Transform. Plus, a reminder that you're human, you work with humans, and there's a lot going on....After the EpisodeDevelop your skills at saying No, without feeling bad:https://maven.com/kimnicol/the-gentle-no~Strengthen the basics, and level up your leadership skills with Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Find me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠

In this week's episode we explore three interwoven themes: How to refill your cup when you feel exhausted,Where to find inspiration, and Making feedback meaningful.I make a commitment to share the zine I made. But in the meantime, check out Julia's zine: Help! I have a manager!https://wizardzines.com/zines/manager/...After the EpisodeDevelop your skills at saying No, without feeling bad:https://maven.com/kimnicol/the-gentle-no~Enroll in Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠

This originally aired in Aug. 2024 as Episode 182, Being a Hard Worker and Saying No. As you listen, notice for yourself: What's changed? What's new? What have you let go of?Choosing that state of Beginner's Mind, where you don't need to have all the answers, will keep you adaptive, curious, and ready to learn. And that includes: learning how (and when!) to say No....After the EpisodeDevelop your skills at saying No, without feeling bad:https://maven.com/kimnicol/the-gentle-no~Strengthen your foundational manager skills:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠

If you've been praised and rewarded for saying YES all the time, it can feel really uncomfortable to start saying NO.But part of your job as a manager and leader is to say No.Start seeing NO as a skill to learn, rather than a discomfort to avoid....After the EpisodeDevelop your skills at saying No, without feeling bad:https://maven.com/kimnicol/the-gentle-no~Enroll in Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠

Lessons learned about confidence from weight training. Create it somewhere outside of work -- get the feeling experience of it in your body. Then bring it with you into wherever you need it....After the EpisodeEnrollment is open for March and April:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~New course: The Gentle Nohttps://maven.com/kimnicol/the-gentle-no~Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠

Your voice -- literally, the sound you create through your physical body -- has more power than you may realize. Communication is not just about the words you use, but the way you use sound (and silence) can convey your message and influence how others receive (and perceive!) you....After the EpisodeEnrollment is open for March and April! For a limited time, use promo code SPRING10 and save 10% off the registration fee:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠

At some point your career, you (or someone on your team) will make a mistake. There will also come a time when you find yourself on the receiving end of someone else's mistake.The important thing in both cases is how you choose to handle it. How will you treat people -- how will you communicate? Listen to the story behind why this is top of mind, and what you can do when you find yourself in a similar situation....After the EpisodeEnrollment is open for March and April! For a limited time, use promo code SPRING10 and save 10% off the registration fee:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

When you're an IC, your focus is on execution. But as you rise to manager and leader, this must shift.Three things managers and leaders focus on, instead of trying to be the best at executing tasks:Making decisions.Building relationships.Creating a vision -- and communicating it so that others can see how they fit into it....After the EpisodeEnrollment is open for March and April! For a limited time, use promo code SPRING10 and save 10% off the registration fee:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

Leadership can feel heavy. I've found that most of the time when people talk about wanting to feel more confident, they really mean they want to feel more certain. They want to know that they're making decisions that will lead to best outcomes, and ensure success.This episode explores two sources of confidence: External and Internal. Learn to recognize and work with both, and you'll have an easier time finding authentic confidence when you need it most....After the EpisodeEnrollment is open for March and April:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

Being direct is a great tool to have in your communications toolbox. Whether you're using it effectively will have a lot to do on other factors, like: context, power, relationship, and goals. In this episode we'll explore how (and why!) to be more direct. You'll also get some suggestions for what to do if you find that your direct approach is not always well received....After the EpisodeJoin the next class! Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

There are five aspects of trauma-informed care that make good sense for the workplace:Safety / Psychological SafetyTrustworthinessChoice / AutonomyCollaborationEmpowerment / Motivation + EngagementPeople are human. The experiences we have in life shape how we perceive risk, make decisions, communicate, and work with others. Learning a bit about trauma-informed care makes it easier to bring out the best in yourself -- and the people you work with....After the EpisodeBecome a more calm, confident leader by honing your communication skills and strategic thinking:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

When I was first promoted to a manager role, I thought that maybe there would be meetings with other people managers where we discussed how to be good managers, and address challenges in doing the job. Nope! I began to realize that everyone was just figuring it out along the way.Three things to keep in mind as you start the year:Everyone is making it up as they go.Be observant. Pay attention and learn from the people around you.Be kind and compassionate with yourself. This is not an easy job. There's a lot of new things to learn when it comes to leadership and managing humans....After the EpisodeEnroll now to strengthen your communication skills and strategic thinking:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

This is the last episode of 2025, so our focus will be VISION. First, we reflect on the year. Then, we set intentions for the year ahead. The heart of it all? You. Your vision of yourself -- as a leader, and as a person.I use Year Compass to help me reflect on my year, and set intentions for the year ahead. Get your own copy -- it's free, and probably offered in your preferred language:https://yearcompass.com/en/...After the EpisodeEnroll now to hone your communication and strategic thinking:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

Working with and leading a diverse team takes skill. Developing any skill takes intentional practice -- whether you're learning a new language, a new dance step, or honing your communication skills and leadership mindset. Communication Strategies for Managers starts in January. Here's what you need to know, to get the most out of it....After the EpisodeEnroll now to start the New Year strong, with structure and support to help you hone your Communication skills:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

"Instead of thinking in terms of using AI, think about it as managing AI. Manage it like you would a person." This is one of the ideas shared at the Responsibly Human AI Summit last week, where leaders in HR, People Ops, and Employee Engagement gathered to discuss and learn about how to use AI at work.Here's my initial take....After the EpisodeEnroll now for Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

Shout out to my fellow Swifties! According to Spotify Wrapped, Taylor Swift is the top artist you listened to in 2025 (same!). I also learned that you're listening to this show in 87 countries --wow! And, the top episode this year was Ep. 2: The Two Essential Skills Every New Manager Needs.So this week, we're revisiting that episode. Thank you for being here! And thank you for making The New Manager Podcast one of the MOST SHARED shows of 2025....After the EpisodeEnroll now for the upcoming cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

Burnout creeps up on you, and sometimes it's only when you reach the end of the year that you realize just how heavy the exhaustion has become. In this episode you'll learn the 3 components of burnout, so you can check for yourself how you're doing with each one. Then, I'll walk you through 3 lenses for how look at your situation, so you can see what's in your hands (and what's not) that can help you feel more protected....After the EpisodeEnroll now for the upcoming cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

Does it seem like things are changing faster? As the world of work changes with AI and different generational expectations, managers will need to adapt as well. This includes becoming good at change management, and strengthening foundational skills for structural change, and managing relationships throughout your organization....After the EpisodeEnroll in the upcoming cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

I've noticed a pattern with my clients when it comes to getting stuck in the weeds. It happens sometimes: losing sight of the big picture, not doing the strategic work, and getting sucked down into the details of the work your team is doing.In this episode I'll walk you through five common reasons why this happens, and point you towards a way out....After the EpisodeJoin the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Get in touch to discuss private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

As a manager, part of your job is to speak up.  But as a human, you might feel anxious or reluctant to do so.  Here's what might hold you back from speaking up at work -- and how can you learn to have more authentic confidence to speak up.  Let's discuss!This episode originally aired as Ep. 83: Speaking Up....After the EpisodeJoin the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Reach out for private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

Being observant and adaptive are two skills that will serve you well as a leader. You'll become more present and capable in responding to the moment and any challenges that arise. In this episode, I walk you through a simple practice that I used to teach in my Essential Skills for Managers course. You'll gain more clarity of mind and action as you reflect and make a list of your observations. It's a great activity to do at the end of the year....After the EpisodeJoin the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Reach out for private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

As you rise into higher levels of responsibility and visibility, you may start to get feedback about "developing executive presence."  If you've ever felt confused by what that means, you're not alone!  It's rarely something we learn about early in our work life, and it's often not described in much detail.  So it can seem elusive and ambiguous.  In this episode, I break down how I think about Executive Presence and give some specific examples to help new managers think about what exactly it means, and how to get it.  Let's discuss!This episode was originally published in 2022 as Episode 99. ...After the EpisodeJoin the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Reach out for private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

As you rise into higher levels of responsibility and visibility in your career, at some point you're likely to get feedback about your executive presence. Let's start with recognizing you already have a presence, and that it has an effect on those around you. In this episode you'll gain a better understanding of what presence is, and how to recognize it in others. It's the first step to cultivating your own executive presence and wielding it in a useful way at work....After the EpisodeJoin the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Reach out for private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠~⁠⁠⁠Into meditation? This is for you:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insighttimer.com/meditation-courses/mindfulness-for-managers-at-work⁠⁠

Being a great manager doesn't require you to be a hero.  But you might slip into that mindset.  It can look like perfectionism, and anxiety about how others see you.  It leads to overworking, isolating, and being overly responsible.  It also creates a lot of pressure, feeling like everything is on your shoulders and it's up to you to keep everything together (no mistakes allowed!).  In this episode, you'll learn more about why the hero mindset is easy to slip into, and how it will hold you back from being an effective leader.  You'll also learn why seeing yourself as a whole human is the key to managing yourself and your own wellbeing.  Let's discuss!The book referenced in this episode is Persephone Returns by Tanka Wilkinson...After the EpisodeJoin the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Reach out for private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠~⁠⁠⁠Into meditation? This is for you:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insighttimer.com/meditation-courses/mindfulness-for-managers-at-work⁠⁠

The way you define a problem will point you towards a certain set of solutions. When you reframe the problem, you will start to see new kinds of solutions. It can be kind of magical. Let's discuss!...After the EpisodeJoin the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Reach out for private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠~⁠⁠⁠Into meditation? This is for you:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insighttimer.com/meditation-courses/mindfulness-for-managers-at-work⁠⁠

If you're conflict avoidant, or grew up as the peace-maker in your family or friend group, then save this episode! You probably have a gut sense that conflict is bad, and must be prevented. But did you know that conflict can actually be an indicator of psychological safety?Conflict is a normal part of human relationships. What's important is what kind of conflict it is, and how you handle it. Let's discuss!...After the EpisodeJoin the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Reach out for private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠~⁠⁠⁠Into meditation? This is for you: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insighttimer.com/meditation-courses/mindfulness-for-managers-at-work⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Confidence is not all or nothing -- it's not something you have or you don't. It's also not something that's rock solid or non-existent. Instead, see it as a dynamic quality inside you that can help keep you steady through uncertainty and change. Learn to identify it in yourself, so that you can access it when needed....After the Episode:Join the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Reach out for private coaching, team workshops or off-sites:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

Every manager needs to learn now to give effective feedback.It's ok if it doesn't come naturally -- you can learn how to do it well.  Thinking in terms of "Feedback as a Service" takes the pressure off, and helps you feel like you're on the same team.  This episode will give you a useful way to think about how to give feedback, be human, and create a working relationship that works for everyone....After the Episode:Join the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Reach out for private coaching, team off-sites and workshops:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

When you're more comfortable with the skill of feedback, your life becomes so much easier! In this episode you'll get some simple ways to build up your skills, so you're ready when the time comes.Practice pays off! When you feel more confident in your skillset, you're less likely to stress over or avoid important conversations....After the Episode:Join the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Reach out for private coaching, team off-sites and workshops:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

It's frustrating when you don't feel heard. And: sometimes we forget that listening is NOT the same as agreement, compliance, or obedience. We can hear someone, and still have different priorities, or choose different trade-offs. Today, we're revisiting Episode 51, Opinion Tennis, which is when you have two or more people talking and no one feels like anyone is listening. You can use what you learn in the workplace, and in your personal relationships, too!...After the Episode:Join the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Explore private coaching, team off-sites and workshops:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Let's connect on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

A big part of being a manager comes down to relational skills, and realizing that communication isn't just about what you convey. It's also about your ability to listen. This is a good practice, especially if you tend to jump into solution mode! Because sometimes your job as a manager is NOT to solve the problem -- but to listen deeply and understand the bigger context and what's really going on....After the Episode:Join the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠~Explore private coaching, team off-sites and workshops:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠~Connect with me on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

When you're clear on what success means as a manager, you will have an easier time focusing on what matters and letting the rest go. This can be tricky at first, especially when you care a lot and are a high-achiever. The uncertainty of what "success" means can be frustrating and anxiety provoking. This week, we revisit Ep. 175 - Defining Success as a Manager.After the Episode:Join the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠Talk with me about private coaching, team off-sites and workshops:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠Connect with me on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

This special guest episode is from The Confidence Lounge, a podcast hosted by Elyse Conroy, Confidence Coach and Career Strategist for women in the beauty industry. Elyse invited me onto her show earlier this year, and we talked about what it actually takes to rise in your career and lead with confidence. Learn about The Beauty Career Lab LIVE:https://www.soulmakeup.com/beautycareerlabliveConnect with Elyse on IG or LinkedIn:https://www.instagram.com/elyseconroyxo/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elyseconroy/**After the Episode**Join the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠Talk with me about private coaching, team off-sites and workshops:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠Connect with me on LinkedIn!⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

Today we're taking another listen to Ep 188: Working with Difficult People. The goal is not to prevent or avoid all difficulty, or friction at work. Instead, it's to increase your capacity for discomfort AND gain confidence with some tools and a mindset that will enable you to respond in a useful way. This way, you step out of reactivity and feeling powerless -- and become a more responsive, capable leader.**After the Episode**Join the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠Talk with me about private coaching, team off-sites and workshops:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠Connect with me on LinkedIn!⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠

There are a few reasons why people have chosen to study with me, or hire me as their coach -- and sometimes, it's because they want help managing difficult people. Today I share a story from my own career journey of managing a difficult person, and what I learned from it that can help you move forward, too.**After the Episode**Join the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesTalk with me about private coaching, team off-sites and workshops:https://kimnicol.com/Connect with me on LinkedIn!https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

When it comes to feedback, most managers focus so much on how to give it to their team, that they completely forget to consider: How can I get quality feedback?And the truth is, the higher you go in your career the harder it is to get good feedback! Your boss will be busier than ever. You will be expected to take responsibility for your own professional development, and have the self-awareness needed to know what to work on.And the more power you have, the more people will want to keep you happy -- and will be less candid with you about your blind spots.In this episode I'll walk you through a few simple steps to make it easier for you to get quality feedback.** After the Episode**Enroll in Communication Strategies for Managers:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesGet private coaching, or support for your team development:https://kimnicol.com/Connect with me on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

Being a manager requires relational skills, because you're not just managing work you are managing people and relationships. That's why communication is so important.**After the Episode**Join the next cohort of Communication Strategies for Managers:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesReach out for private coaching to deepen your personal growth and accelerate your professional development (mindfully!):https://kimnicol.com/Connect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/

Hey, you are a human first. (Sometimes that seems to get lost in all of the conversations about leadership and how to be a good manager.) So in today's episode, I'm sharing three prompts to shift the conversation -- to center you as a human person, first.Who you are as a person, and how you're doing in your life, will absolutely influence how you lead.**After the Episode**For private coaching, go to kimnicol.com Deepen your personal growth and boost your professional development with Communication Strategieshttps://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesFollow me on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol

Why would a kind person start micromanaging people, even when they care deeply and want to do a good job? It happens more often than you might think! And it's often by accident.Managing people is a different job than being an Individual Contributor (IC). It requires a different mindset and skills -- "what got you here won't get you there," as the saying goes. Anyone can drift towards micromanaging. In today's episode, find out why this happens, and what you can do about it.**After the Episode**Enrollment in Communication Strategies for Managers:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesFor private coaching focused on your personal goals and professional development:https://kimnicol.com/Connect with me on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/Become a more calm and confident leader:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insighttimer.com/meditation-courses/mindfulness-for-managers-at-work⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Today I'm sharing some audio from my new course on Insight Timer: Mindfulness for Managers at Work.Having the right mindset and clear intentions can steady you through change and uncertainty. It will help you feel grounded, calm, and authentically confident.Save this for anytime you need a reminder!See the full course here:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insighttimer.com/meditation-courses/mindfulness-for-managers-at-work⁠Check out my other content on Insight Timer:https://insighttimer.com/kimnicol**After the Episode**Enroll in Communication Skills for Managers:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠⁠⁠⁠Get private coaching for your personal goals and professional development:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠⁠

Disengaged. Doing the bare minimum. Quietly looking to make a move. These are all signs of being disengaged. It happens, and if you notice it in your team (or in yourself!) this episode will give you some clarity, perspective, and ideas.A recent Gallup survey identified four areas that contribute to low employee engagement numbers. They also listened to what employees say they want most from leadership.I recommend saving this one, and listening to it again towards the end of the year.Read the article on low employee engagement here:https://www.gallup.com/workplace/692954/anemic-employee-engagement-points-leadership-challenges.aspx**After the Episode**Enrollment in Communication Strategies for Managers:https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategiesRegister now and use promo code EARLYBIRD to save $75.For private coaching focused on your personal goals and leadership growth:https://kimnicol.com/Follow me on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/Become a more calm and confident leader:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insighttimer.com/meditation-courses/mindfulness-for-managers-at-work⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Did you know that your values inform your strategy and the way you make decisions? If you value harmony in relationships, you might decide to delay a tough conversation. If you value pitching in and helping, you might choose to be over-available and over work instead of establishing a boundary. Today we revisit Episode 57, taking a fresh look at how the way you do feedback is guided by your strategy and underlying values.**After the Episode**For private coaching on your situation and goals:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠Enroll in Communication Skills for Managers:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Become a more calm and confident leader:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insighttimer.com/meditation-courses/mindfulness-for-managers-at-work⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

When you're an IC, you're making decisions about your work. When you're a manager, you're making decisions about other people: communicating priorities, allocating work, and maybe even conveying how work needs to get done, and by when. This requires looking at problems strategically, so you can make decisions with a bigger picture in mind. Let's discuss!**After the Episode**For private coaching on your situation and goals:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠Enroll in Communication Skills for Managers:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Become a more calm and confident leader:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insighttimer.com/meditation-courses/mindfulness-for-managers-at-work⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Today we revisit Ep. 89: People Pleasing. As a new manager, you might feel a tendency to people-please flare up.  It can get in the way by causing you to overwork (by having no boundaries), communicate poorly (by avoiding conversations or not being direct), or creating more pressure and anxiety (by ruminating).  In this episode, you'll see what creates the impulse to people-please, and what to do instead.  So you can be intentional in making decisions, and use your people-pleasing awareness for the best. **After the Episode**For private coaching on your situation and goals:⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠Enroll in Communication Skills for Managers:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Become a more calm and confident leader:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insighttimer.com/meditation-courses/mindfulness-for-managers-at-work⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠