TECC 304: The Art of Listening and Unlocking Corporate Problem-Solving Success

In this episode, we talk to Tony Chatman, speaker, author, and corporate relationship expert who has been helping organizations achieve their goals through listening and leadership about how engineers can define and tackle problems in a corporate setting, and the crucial role of listening in effective corporate problem-solving. He also talks about his book, “The Force Multiplier,” and how engineering leaders can use it to transform their teams into high-performing units. ***You can view the video version of this episode here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About the Art of Listening and Unlocking Corporate Problem-Solving Success: People at work desire to be seen, as it leads to increased engagement and productivity. When individuals feel valued and acknowledged by their organization and managers, they are more likely to care and contribute. A survey by Mackenzie revealed that a significant percentage of employees left their jobs in 2022 because they didn't feel seen or valued. Creating a culture where people feel seen yields remarkable outcomes. The disconnect between individuals in corporate roles feeling unseen and undervalued often occurs due to the overshadowing of the human dimension by job demands and corporate culture. Many leaders lack proper training and preparation for their managerial roles, leading to a focus on tasks rather than people. This lack of self-reflection and blaming others for leadership shortcomings can further dehumanize employees and hinder their growth and overall success. In a corporate setting, prioritize addressing people problems that create a toxic environment, impacting productivity, processes, or turnover, to cultivate mutual respect and collaboration for effective teamwork. When measuring the impact of addressing people problems, key indicators of change include increased productivity, reduced time loss, decreased formal complaints, and lower turnover rates. While quantifying engagement can be challenging, surveys provide valuable insights, such as Gallup's employee engagement data, which hovers around 34-37%. Active listening plays a vital role in addressing conflicts and identifying organizational problems early on, allowing leaders to uncover underlying issues, gain valuable insights, and take proactive measures to maintain a healthy and effective work environment. Safety and addressing power dynamics are vital for creating an open environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their concerns and providing valuable insights. "The Force Multiplier" emphasizes the concept of leadership as a force multiplier, where leaders bring out the best in others and enhance their performance. It focuses on foundational principles and practical guidance for effective leadership at all levels, aiming to equip leaders with essential skills such as understanding personalities, delegation, and leading with impact. More in This Episode… In the Take Action Today segment of the show, Tony talks about the importance of recognizing and humanizing every interaction with employees. About the Guest, Tony Chatman Where there are people, there are problems. Tony Chatman turns problems into progress. As a corporate relationship expert, Tony destroys the dysfunction that burns out executives, frustrates staff, and ultimately stalls success. His strategies for understanding people and processes enable organizations to achieve their goals through listening and leadership. The Tony Chatman Experience [TCeX] delivers presentations that are an entertaining and impassioned balance of both science and practical insight. Tony breaks down tough topics such as change management, teamwork, and unconscious bias. He creates a new, stronger foundation for true leadership.