Navigating Work Relationships: Insights from Jackie Leahy

Jackie Leahy, a fractional RevOps advisor and founder of Activate the Magic. In this episode of the Operations Podcast, Sean discusses Jackie's journey, her work advice column "Dear Jackie," and her approach to navigating work relationships.

Finding the Right Fit: Jackie's Journey

Jackie Leahy’s career journey is a testament to resilience and self-awareness. Starting over in tech at 33 as a Business Development Representative (BDR), she faced the challenge of fitting into a new industry and environment. Despite feeling out of place initially, Jackie leveraged her passion for understanding human dynamics and personality tests, which eventually led her to take the Clifton Strengths Assessment. This pivotal moment helped her recognize her strengths and align her career path accordingly.

“Not every environment matches every skill set or personality. That’s not a knock on you. It’s just reality.” - Jackie Leahy

The Importance of Workplace Relationships

Jackie's column, "Dear Jackie," addresses the complexities of workplace relationships. She emphasizes that different leadership and working styles must be accommodated within a company. Her experience taught her that interpersonal relationships are crucial, especially in cross-functional roles. For operators, building these connections is essential for success.

“When my focus is on a shared vision, feedback becomes vital information rather than a personal critique.” - Jackie Leahy

Embracing Your Strengths

Understanding and embracing one’s strengths is central to Jackie's philosophy. She encourages others to recognize their unique talents and find environments where these can flourish. Jackie’s advice is to remain true to oneself while being open to feedback and growth.

“Being so confident and secure with my own value allows me to fully listen and be present for those around me.” - Jackie Leahy

Managing Teams with Empathy

As a leader, Jackie prioritizes her team members' career growth and personal well-being over immediate job performance. She advocates for a strength-based management approach, ensuring that her team members are aware of their strengths and how to leverage them effectively.

“I care much more about you and your career and your happiness than what you’re doing for me right now. You have me for life.” - Jackie Leahy

Practical Tips for Operators

1. Identify Core Values: Understand what is most important to you in your current chapter of life and seek environments that align with those values.

2. Take Strengths Assessments: Tools like the Clifton Strengths Assessment can provide valuable insights into your strengths and how to leverage them.

3. Manage Relationships: Build strong cross-functional relationships by being confident in your strengths, open to feedback, and focused on shared goals.

4. Embrace Change: Be willing to pivot and adapt as needed, understanding that different roles and environments may be better suited to your strengths at different times.

5. Stay Resilient: Use your core values and strengths as a foundation to navigate the ups and downs of high-growth environments.

Additional Materials

For more insights and practical tools on managing work relationships and professional growth, check out the following resources:

• Activate the Magic: Learn more about Jackie Leahy and her approach to professional development.

• Clifton Strengths Assessment: Discover your top strengths and how to apply them in your career.

• Molly Graham’s Two-Week Rule: Understand how to process and react to changes in your work environment.

• Operations with Sean Lane Podcast: Explore more episodes for operational tactics and strategies.

• Listen to the full podcast here or watch the full Interview here

• Video Short: Managing People Goes Beyond the Job They Have Right Now

FAQs

• How can I improve my workplace relationships?

  Focus on building genuine connections, understanding different working styles, and being open to feedback. Prioritize a shared vision and goals.

• What should I do if I feel out of place in my current work environment?

  Reflect on your core values and strengths. Consider whether the environment aligns with these, and don’t hesitate to seek a better fit if necessary.

• How can a strength-based management approach benefit my team?

  It helps each team member leverage their unique strengths, leading to higher engagement, productivity, and job satisfaction.

• What resources can help me identify my strengths and values?

  Tools like the Clifton Strengths Assessment and value identification exercises can provide valuable insights into your strengths and core values.