Dear Leaders,

This month, I invite you to put on your coach hat. Yes – you have one. Even if it’s sometimes hard to bear, whether due to lack of time or headspace.

That's why I'm sharing the A book to make your life easier, plus a simple leadership nudge to try out.

Also… 🎁 Time to play! I am offering places in this autumn's co-development sessions.

But first, before you dive into this June edition of Inspiring Connections, allow me to tell you Here What happened when a client recently said to me: “I thought it was going to be boring.” 

On this journey with you,
Anita

This month's nugget

A book to keep on your desk

This month, I'm sharing a little gem I always recommend to leaders – whether they’re just starting out or have 20 years under their belt:  “The Coaching Habit – Say Less, Ask More & Change the Way You Lead Forever” by Michael Bungay Stanier.

(Thanks to @GrahamStickland for putting this book on my journey)

Why this book? Because in just 7 simple questions, it teaches you how to talk less, listen better, and lead smarter.

Michael's core message is clear: as a leader, your job is not to have all the answers – it's to help others find theirs. That's what real coaching is about.

It’s practical, relatable and powerful! You can read it in an evening... and its lessons will stay with you for years.

Leadership nudges

A habit to build this week

My tip for you: next time one of your team members walks into your office with a question – and you Knowthey probably already have the answer deep down – resist the urge to respond right away.

Instead, try this: flip the conversation with a simple, open-ended question like: “What would you do if I weren’t here?” or  “What’s your gut telling you?”, «What would be the benefit? The risk?» 

Why?
Because every time you answer for them, you train them to rely on you. But every time you ask instead, you train them to Think for themselves.

The benefit?

🌳 You grow their confidence.
🌳 You free up your own mental load.
🌳 You build a team that thinks, not just executes.

Leadership isn't about having the best answers – it's about helping others discover their own. 

Give it a go this week. You might be surprised by the insights they already possess.

Time to play and win!

🎁 A lunch like no other

I recently asked for your thoughts on this Inspiring Connections edition, and one strong theme came up: you're looking for more support and peer-to-peer help.

Perfect timing – that's exactly what we're building together here!

To keep the momentum going, I want to launch regular giveaways to connect, inspire, and support each other.

This time, Danae and I are offering a gift that many of you have loved: a place at our next co-development session  🎉

Two sessions are already full before the summer. and we will come back to you shortly with the dates in the autumn.

These lunchtime sessions (in English or French, depending on the group) offer a confidential, high-trust space to explore real challenges and learn from each other.

Here’s the kind of questions we explore together:

How do I re-motivate my team?
How can I give better feedback?
How can I influence key stakeholders?
Here's how to handle a difficult conversation: 1. **Prepare:** * **Define your goal:** What do you want to achieve from this conversation? * **Gather your thoughts:** Write down the key points you want to make. * **Anticipate their reaction:** How might the other person respond? * **Choose the right time and place:** Find a private, neutral setting where you won't be interrupted. 2. **During the conversation:** * **Stay calm and composed:** Take deep breaths if you need to. * **Start gently:** Begin by stating the purpose of the conversation and your desire to resolve the issue constructively. * **Use "I" statements:** Focus on your feelings and observations rather than making accusations (e.g., "I feel concerned when..." instead of "You always..."). * **Be specific and factual:** Give concrete examples of the behaviour or situation that's causing concern. * **Listen actively:** Pay attention to what the other person is saying, both verbally and non-verbally. Don't interrupt. * **Empathise:** Try to understand their perspective, even if you don't agree with it. Acknowledge their feelings. * **Stay focused on the issue:** Avoid bringing up past grievances or unrelated topics. * **Look for common ground:** Identify areas where you can agree or find a shared solution. * **Be open to compromise:** You may not get everything you want, but aim for a resolution that works for both of you. 3. **Concluding the conversation:** * **Summarise agreements:** Recap any decisions or action points. * **Plan next steps:** Outline what will happen now and who is responsible for what. * **Thank them:** Appreciate their willingness to have the conversation, even if it was tough. * **Follow up:** If necessary, check in later to ensure agreed-upon actions are being taken.
I'm struggling to delegate – where do I begin?
Here are some ways to feel more confident in a new role: * **Prepare thoroughly:** Familiarise yourself with the company, its culture, and your team's objectives. Understand your job description inside out. * **Set realistic expectations:** It's normal to not know everything on day one. Give yourself time to learn and adjust. * **Ask questions:** Don't be afraid to seek clarification. Asking questions shows you're engaged and want to understand. * **Find a mentor:** Connect with a more experienced colleague who can offer guidance and support. * **Focus on small wins:** Celebrate your successes, no matter how minor. This will help build your self-belief. * **Be proactive:** Look for opportunities to contribute and demonstrate your skills. * **Practice self-care:** Ensure you're getting enough rest, eating well, and exercising. This will help you manage stress and maintain energy. * **Positive self-talk:** Challenge negative thoughts and focus on your strengths and capabilities. * **Understand your impact:** See how your work contributes to the bigger picture. This can be very motivating. * **Seek feedback:** Regularly ask for constructive criticism to help you identify areas for improvement and recognise your progress.

🎟️ Fancy it?
The first 6 people to reply with a challenge they’d like to explore will win their seat. What’s something on your mind these days?