Dr. Joe Folkman And Dr. Jack Zenger

Shows

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 186: Filling the Missing Gap in Early Career Development: Extraordinary YouEpisode Description Why do so many capable professionals overestimate their effectiveness at work? And what are the hidden behaviors quietly limiting trust, credibility, communication, and career growth? In this episode of The 90th Percentile, BreAnne Okoren sits down with Zenger Folkman co-founder Jack Zenger to explore new research on one of the most important drivers of professional growth: self-awareness. Drawing on data from thousands of individual contributors, they uncover a surprising gap between how employees view their own effectiveness and how their managers actually experience them. BreAnne and Jack discuss the eight workplace behaviors people...

2026-06-0315 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 161: Then and Now—How the Pandemic Boosted Leadership EffectivenessDetails When the pandemic hit, many expected a decline in leadership effectiveness due to burnout, isolation, and crisis fatigue. However, surprising research from Zenger Folkman revealed just the opposite: leaders didn’t deteriorate under pressure—they improved. In this insightful episode, Joe Folkman shares compelling data showing how the challenges of COVID-19 transformed leaders worldwide, enhancing their agility, communication, trust-building skills, and overall effectiveness. Discover how leaders emerged from the crisis stronger, more adaptive, and better equipped to navigate ongoing disruption. Key Learnings Leadership Effectiveness Improved Globally Contrary to expectations, leadership effectiveness significantly increased worldwide during and after the...

2025-04-2317 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 159: Is One Leadership Style Better Than Others?Details In this episode, we’ll explore four distinct leadership styles—the Expert, the Connector, the Driver, and the Strategist—and reveal surprising findings about which approach yields the best results. We’ll also connect Joe’s research to Daniel Goleman’s six leadership styles featured in last year’s popular Harvard Business Review article, giving you practical insights on how to leverage your natural leadership strengths while avoiding common pitfalls. Whether you’re an aspiring leader or a seasoned executive, today’s discussion will transform how you think about effective leadership. Key Learnings 1. No One Leadership Style Is Universally Bet...

2025-03-2616 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 155: The 7 Minor Leadership Behaviors That Actually Determine Your SuccessDetails In today’s fast-paced business environment, leaders often focus on grand strategies and bold initiatives, overlooking the foundational behaviors that shape their success. It’s easy to rationalize small missteps, telling ourselves they don’t really matter in the grand scheme of things. However, our research paints a different picture. When we analyzed 60 distinct leadership behaviors, we identified seven seemingly minor actions that yield outsized impacts on a leader’s overall effectiveness. Download our 2025 Leadership Skills Report. Key Learnings 1. Small Behaviors Have a Big Impact Leaders often focus on high-level strategies but overlook minor behavior...

2025-02-0517 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 154: Is Learning and Development Being Demoted?Details In this episode of The 90th Percentile, we dive into the shifting landscape of Learning and Development (L&D) with Dani Johnson, co-founder and principal analyst at RedThread Research. Dani explores the concerning trend of L&D’s “demotion” within organizations, the rise of federated models, and the opportunities for L&D leaders to adapt and thrive. Together, we unpack the critical strategies and skills needed to maintain relevance in a rapidly evolving business environment. Guest BIO: Dani Johnson, Co-Founder & Principal Analyst Before co-founding RedThread in 2018, Dani led the Learning and Career research practice at Bersin...

2025-01-2226 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 153: Finding Joy as a Leader (Even on the Hard Days)Details When work and life are overwhelming, it can be difficult to reclaim a sense of joy at work. Research has shown the benefits of incorporating joy, hope, and optimism into the workplace to combat burnout and improve well-being. Our guest today is Daisey Auger-Dominguez, a Chief People Officer, workplace strategist, speaker, and author on future readying the workforce and building high-performing teams that deliver a competitive advantage without burning out. Daisey’s research, drawing from studies by the Association for Psychological Science and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, reveals how chronic workplace stress impacts not just em...

2025-01-1524 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 152: How Much Does Passion Influence Performance?Details As we step into a new year filled with possibilities, this episode of The 90th Percentile dives into the powerful connection between passion and performance. Hosts Bre and Joe explore Zenger Folkman’s groundbreaking research on how passion influences leadership effectiveness, with compelling stories like Koel Thomae’s journey to build Noosa Yoghurt. They discuss the advantages – and potential pitfalls – of passion in the workplace, offering actionable insights for HR professionals and leaders. From identifying passion-driven talent to balancing passion and competence, discover how to harness passion as a strategic advantage to drive engagement, innovation, and growth. Don’t miss thi...

2025-01-0616 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Zenger Folkman Holiday Message 2024Details This holiday, we encourage you to find stability and joy in the customs that have persisted for generations. Though the world may sometimes feel uncertain, the enduring spirit of the holidays can provide comfort, connection, and hope. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you can meet Jack Zenger and Joe Folkman and talk about their latest leadership development research. Find out more information and register here.The post Zenger Folkman Holiday Message 2024 first appeared on ZENGER FOLKMAN.

2024-12-2302 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 151: 3 Ways to Help Employees Love Their JobsDetails Do the people you manage love their jobs? Or do you sense that some are dissatisfied or disengaged? It’s no secret that employees who love their jobs work harder and are willing to go the extra mile, which benefits any organization. While the core of great leadership remains unchanged, the landscape of work has dramatically transformed in the past decade. Key Learnings Leaders Energize Teams Through Inspiration and Clear Priorities Effective leaders act as a source of energy for their teams by inspiring them through challenging but achievable goals. Success in accomplishing such goals helps employees di...

2024-12-1112 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 149: Building Empathy and Drive at the Same TimeDetails In a time where AI disrupts traditional workplace dynamics and remote work reshapes human connections, business leaders face a crucial question: How do we maintain our humanity while driving results? The answer might surprise those who still cling to the “tough boss” stereotype. In our episode today we’re discussing how most effective leaders aren’t choosing between being empathetic or being driven—they’re mastering both. Key Learnings Leaders Must Master Both Empathy and Drive Balancing empathy and drive is critical for leadership effectiveness. Only 15% of leaders are skilled at both, yet these leader...

2024-11-1913 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 145: What You Should Know About Coachability Through Career DecadesDetails Today we are looking at coachability and its intriguing role across different career decades. Each stage in our professional lives—whether it’s the exploration of the 20s, the depth-building of the 30s, the influence and leadership in the 40s, or the legacy-building in the 50s and beyond—comes with unique challenges and opportunities. By understanding how coachability can serve as a crucial safeguard against common career pitfalls, we aim to provide insights into how to remain adaptable, curious, and humble, regardless of where you are on your career timeline. Join us as we discuss the art of asking...

2024-10-0900 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 144: Connecting The Manager, Employee, and Customer Satisfaction ChainDetails In this episode of The 90th Percentile, hosts BreAnne Okoren and Joe Folkman explore the powerful connection between leadership, employee engagement, and customer satisfaction. Drawing on research and real-world examples from companies like Sears and Zappos, they discuss how effective leadership drives employee engagement, which in turn boosts customer satisfaction and profitability. They also examine the critical role of culture, leadership development, and the difference between givers and takers in creating cohesive, high-performing teams. Tune in to discover actionable insights for fostering better leadership and ultimately delivering superior customer experiences. Key Learnings Leadership Directly Impacts Employee Engagement a...

2024-10-0214 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 143: Are You Surviving or Thriving With AI?Details We can all admit that we have felt a little threatened by AI. After all its whole purpose is improve and ultimately replace Human intelligence. And leadership will not be spared by the impact of AI. Certain leadership qualities, such as deep domain expertise, decisiveness, authority, and short-term task focus, are losing their impact, while others, such as humility, adaptability, vision, and emotional connection, are likely to play a key role in more-agile types of leadership. Charles Darwin said in On the Origin of the Species that it’s not the strongest or most intelligent of the species that sur...

2024-09-2400 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 142: Trust and Resolving Conflict in the Workplace—Key Behaviors for LeadersDetails Recently, a compelling question emerged: How do trust and conflict resolution impact a leader’s effectiveness? To explore this, we analyzed a robust dataset of 360-degree assessments from 4,347 leaders, collected over the past three years. In environments where leaders are untrustworthy or avoid resolving conflicts, dissatisfaction and disengagement flourish. Conversely, trusted leaders who adeptly navigate conflicts foster high levels of employee engagement and effectiveness. Today, we’ll dive deeper into the data, exploring how trust and conflict resolution enhance leadership, and reveal four key behaviors that help build these essential skills. Key Learnings Trust and Conflict Resolution are I...

2024-09-1113 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 141: Can Honest Leaders Rebuild Integrity?Details Can individuals truly recover from being perceived as fundamentally flawed in honesty and integrity? We embarked on a research journey to uncover whether redemption is possible for those who have fallen into the pit of distrust and how they can climb out. We analyzed data from 6,025 leaders who underwent 360-degree assessments, receiving feedback from their managers, peers, direct reports, and other raters. Our mission was to see if they could change and, if so, how they managed to do it. Join us as we dive deeper into these findings, share stories of transformation, and provide practical tips for...

2024-07-1700 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 139: 6 Components that Differentiate the Best 360-Degree AssessmentsDetails 360-degree assessments are a central component in many leadership-development programs. But not all assessments provide the same value to individual leaders or to the organization. The best assessments offer participants powerful insights into how others perceive their leadership strengths and weaknesses. These become a solid impetus for personal change. Organizations that offer multi-rater feedback at the start of their leadership development programs benefit from participants who are much more receptive and engaged in their learning opportunities. Given so many choices, how can organizations determine what qualifies as a highly effective instrument? In this podcast, we are e...

2024-06-1900 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 137: Building Trust—The Balance of Information and InvolvementDetails Join us in this enlightening episode of “The 90th Percentile” as hosts BreAnne Okoren and Joe Folkman delve into the crucial dynamics of trust in leadership. We’ll explore the fine line between keeping teams informed and involving them in decision-making, backed by compelling data from Zenger Folkman’s extensive research. Through engaging stories and expert insights, discover practical strategies to foster a more transparent and trusting environment within your team. Tune in to learn how active listening, innovative communication, and valuing diversity can significantly impact trust scores and overall team cohesion. Key Learnings The Power of Transparency: Transparency in decis...

2024-06-0500 min

Podcast - ZENGER FOLKMAN Episode 31: 6 Fatal Flaws That Kill a Leader’s EffectivenessDetails Chances are you’ve known or read about great leaders and learned that often they have weaknesses. From that, you have probably concluded that you don’t have to be perfect to be a great leader. But there are some weaknesses that cannot be overlooked. In this episode, we are going to talk about serious weaknesses- some would label these fatal flaws- and the six that effectively kill a leader’s effectiveness. Connect with Jack Zenger LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you can meet...

2024-05-2916 min

Podcast - ZENGER FOLKMAN Episode 26: 5 Ways to Maximize Brief InteractionsDetails Life for a manager inside an organization has an unrelenting pace, with very few occasions where there is uninterrupted time. As a result, relationship building and development opportunities may fall by the wayside or become superficial due to the enormity of managerial time constraints. In today’s pandemic world, there is a somewhat different issue. While there are group calls on Zoom or Teams, most interactions rely on the manager’s willingness and discipline of connecting individually with team members. Today, we are discussing five ways leaders can maximize these in-person and online work interactions. Conn...

2024-05-2216 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 135: Flipping Feedback Upside DownDetails Feedback is a powerful tool that can make or break an individual’s growth and development. It can be a valuable gift that leads to success and well-being, but it can also be a dreaded message that is associated with negativity and criticism. The impact of feedback ultimately depends on how it is given, received, and acted upon. In this podcast, we explore the art of giving and receiving effective feedback that can help individuals and organizations thrive. Discover more of our research on hybrid leadership practices in our 2024 Leadership Report. Key Learnings Fe...

2024-04-2416 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 132: Hybrid Work— Understanding The Leadership Advantages in Both ZonesDetails After some initial uncertainty, most companies have now found their footing with respect to adopting office-based, remote, or hybrid working models. Despite a common belief that we’ve mastered the flexibility of working from anywhere, the reality is we’re still on a learning curve—and that’s perfectly acceptable. In today’s discussion, we aim to highlight the distinct strengths of leaders who operate in-office versus those who manage teams remotely. We will explore which leadership behaviors are most effective in each environment. Our goal is to better understand how to manage and encourage change effectively, providing clearer gu...

2024-02-2919 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 128: The Pinnacle Pillar of Trust—Building RelationshipsDetails In the awkward dance of professional interactions, the key to a flourishing work relationship lies not in quick fixes, but in the art of weaving sincerity and respect into the very fabric of our connections. Beyond the confines of office walls, there’s a rich tapestry of experiences and passions that define each of us. Recognizing that we are so much more than our job titles is the cornerstone of genuine rapport. In this final episode, we cover the final and most crucial pillar of trust—building meaningful, lasting relationships in the workplace. Download Zenger Folkman’s eBoo...

2023-12-1321 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 127: The Constant Pillar of Trust— ConsistencyDetails Consistency is a cornerstone of effective leadership, playing a pivotal role in building, maintaining, and restoring trust within an organization or community. Consistency means aligning one’s words, actions, and decisions over time, creating a predictable and reliable pattern of behavior. This reliability is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, consistency provides a sense of stability and predictability, making it easier for individuals to understand and anticipate their leader’s intentions. W hether in good times or challenging situations, leaders who remain unwavering in their consistency inspire trust in their teams. In this next installment of The Trife...

2023-12-0514 min

Podcast - ZENGER FOLKMAN Episode 36: Why the Most Productive People Don’t Always Make the Best ManagersDetails When a company needs a supervisor for a team, senior leaders often anoint the team’s most productive performer. Some of these stars succeed in their new role as manager; many others do not. And when they fail, they tend to leave the organization, costing the company double: Not only has the team lost its new manager but it’s also lost the best individual contributor. And the failure can be personally costly for the new manager, causing them to doubt their skills, smarts, and future career path. Everyone loses. In this episode, we will explore why t...

2023-11-2915 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 126: The Hidden Pillar of Trust—ExpertiseDetails There is a leadership behavior that ignites a lot of conversation. It is trust. Many people have observational theories and experiences that influence their views on how trust is earned and maintained. At Zenger Folkman, we wanted to strip away all of the emotions and biases and purely analyze what the data says about trust. Which leaders have it? How does it influence their work? And what behaviors affect it the most? In this episode, we explore the influence of expertise and good judgment that comes with it. The Trifecta of Trust— Kindle VersionThe Trifecta of Tru...

2023-11-2118 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 125: People Focus vs. Task Focus—Managing Remote WorkersDetails The narrative surrounding the impact of remote work on productivity has taken unexpected twists and turns. Initially, the prevailing wisdom during the early days of the pandemic was that remote work was a boon for productivity. Yet, as the pandemic’s grip waned and remote work persisted, reports began to suggest a dip in productivity among remote employees compared to their in-office counterparts. The question on everyone’s mind: did the allure of working from home lose its luster? What are the challenges of managing remote workers? Amid this ongoing transformation, organizations find themselves at a crossroads. Perhaps most...

2023-11-0815 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 124: How Modern Leaders Champion ChangeDetails Every organization is experiencing change. Some of the changes come from the external environment, such as customer expectations, government regulations, global competition, or new domestic competitors. Other changes are coming from within the organization; such as changing employee expectations, hybrid work schedules, redesigned teams and structures, automated activities that minimize drudgery, reengineered corporate culture, flat productivity increases- and yes, the adoption of AI technolgy. In this episode, we’re exploring how modern leaders champion change. Key Learnings on Championing Change 1. Importance of Championing Change: – Data from over 100,000 leaders worldwide shows a direct correlation between a leader’s abil...

2023-11-0119 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 123: The Leadership Tent—Balancing Specialization and GeneralismDetails Leadership can be a little complicated so in this episode we wish to reduce that complexity to a model of leadership that is more easily understood. You see, Leadership behaviors are knit together, much like the complex network of the human brain. There is a great deal of interdependence between them. Research shows that there are behaviors that are far more powerful in separating highly effective leaders from the rest. But the most effective leaders have a balance of strengths from five different sectors. In this podcast episode, we are exploring Zenger Folkman’s tent model. Do...

2023-10-2318 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 122: Why Middle Managers are So UnhappyDetails Have you ever stopped to wonder who the unhappiest individuals within your organization are? Those weary souls who navigate the daily grind with an invisible weight on their shoulders, all while hiding behind their smiles? And what’s driving them crazy? Well, They may not be who you think they are. At least they were not who we would have thought of. In today’s episode, we going to uncover the hidden narratives behind workplace unhappiness and what can be done to fix it. Key Learnings Key Takeaways from the Podcast on Workplace Unhappiness: 1. Enga...

2023-10-1815 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 121: Unlocking Leadership Potential with Strength BuildersDetails In this enlightening podcast interview, Joe Folkman and Breanne Okoren explore the revolutionary concept of “Strength Builders” in leadership development. Drawing parallels between non-linear approaches and skill enhancement, this discussion challenges traditional linear methods and offers fresh insights into improving leadership skills. Download a free copy of The Extraordinary Leader eBook. Key Learnings Here are some key learnings from the podcast: 1. Beyond Linear Development: Traditional leadership development often follows a linear path, focusing on identifying and addressing weaknesses. However, to bridge the gap from good to great leadership, leaders must explore non-linear appr...

2023-10-1118 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 119: 10 Fatal Flaws That Derail LeadersDetails Poor leadership in good times can be hidden, but poor leadership in bad times is a recipe for disaster. We have found the number one leadership behavior that direct reports expect and need from their boss is the ability to inspire and motivate others. Sadly, it is also the leadership behavior that is ranked dead last in performance. We are not very inspiring and in fact a lot of leaders are Uninspiring. In this episode we are exploring the cost of uninspiring leadership and 10 common fatal flaws that keep leaders from motivating their teams. Key Learnings Understanding...

2023-09-2017 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 118: What Separates Great HR Leaders from the RestDetails HR seems to have become every manager and employee’s favorite corporate punching bag, vying with IT for the dubious title of most-irritating function. We have seen a parade of articles recently calling for HR to be blown up, split in two, or at the very least, redesigned. Perhaps this is a good moment to evaluate what it is we really want from our HR leaders—and what we don’t. In this episode we are sharing Zenger Folkman’s research on what separates great HR leaders from the rest. Key Learnings ZENGER FOLKMAN contrasted...

2023-09-1300 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 117: Your Boss Should Care More About Your Relationship Building SkillsDetails Do personal relationships have the power to shape a leader’s perception of individual performance? The significance of fostering healthy workplace relationships cannot be underestimated. Extensive research has shed light on our ability to connect with diverse individuals, revealing that we are not only happier but also more productive in doing so. However, how much does the ability to forge strong workplace connections truly influence better performance? In this episode, we going to uncover the interaction effect between relationship building and other leadership behaviors. Key Learnings I analyzed data from 12,299 individuals to explore the link between rel...

2023-09-0615 min

Podcast - ZENGER FOLKMAN Episode 40: The Curious Case of Women’s Strategic ThinkingDetails We found that while women generally outperform their male counterparts on most leadership competencies, they are not perceived by their managers, peers, and subordinates as being as adept at strategic thinking as their male counterparts. This gap between women and men in perceived strategic thinking skills begins early, but by age 50, the difference vanishes. In this episode, we are unraveling the research around this curious case. Register for the Webinar–The Confidence Gap: Overcome Doubts with Data That Builds You Up. Connect with Jack Zenger LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger...

2023-08-0214 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 115: Are We More Productive When We Have More Time Off?Details Vacation time—the sacred period where you can put your feet up, escape from spreadsheets, and unleash your inner happiness. It’s crucial for our well-being, both mental and physical. Vacations reduce stress, increase productivity, and help you avoid burnout. However, we live in a fast-paced world where busyness is glorified. People wear their never-ending to-do lists like badges of honor, fearing that if they take time off, they’ll miss out or appear lazy. In this podcast episode, we’re taking a hard look at employee productivity and whether or not we need that vacation time off. Key Le...

2023-07-2614 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 114: 7 Ways to Make Employees Feel RespectedDetails There is one behavior that underlies all good leadership: treating everyone with respect. It’s the fundamental foundation of any relationship, and yet many managers struggle to express it, and right now, employees need to hear and feel they are respected. The world seems to have forgotten their niceties, and we all could show more respect. In this episode, we share research on seven ways leaders can lift their teams up and help them feel more respected. Key Learnings Data we collected in 2022 from 4,849 employees indicated that only 4% felt disrespected, whereas 86% felt respected. To es...

2023-07-0518 min

Podcast - ZENGER FOLKMAN Episode 37: Companies Are Bad At Identifying High Potential EmployeesDetails A high-potential employee is usually in the top 5% of employees in an organization. These people are thought to be the organization’s most capable, most motivated, and most likely to ascend to positions of responsibility and power. To help these employees prepare for leadership roles in a thoughtful, efficient manner, companies often institute formal high-potential (HIPO) programs. In this episode, we discuss how some of these chosen elites don’t belong there and how to spot the truly high potentials in your organization. Register for the webinar– Succession Planning: Drop the HI-PO Hopes and Build...

2023-06-0615 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 111: Leadership Speed—How to Accelerate Successful ExecutionDetails If you have ever been lost while driving in a car, your natural reaction is to slow down. When we are uncertain about which direction to head, our natural response is to slow down, look at a map, ask questions, and proceed cautiously forward. We have measured resilience and confidence for several years and noticed a significant decline since the pandemic. The combination of uncertainty and lack of control has increased anxiety and stress. Is slowing down a problem? In this episode, we’re looking at how increasing our resilience will help pick up the steady pace we ma...

2023-05-3117 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 110: Watch Out For Your 5-Year WorkiversaryDetails Most of us begin a new position with energy and a desire to impress. Our effort is high. Our passion is infectious. Our enthusiasm helps us to excel quickly. But for some, work becomes mundane and repetitive. They lose some of their passion, and their work can begin to feel like a chore. Eventually, some of those executives who had initially loved their careers enter the dimension we call the “day prison.” As they enter their workspace, they feel the metaphorical bars close around them in a zone where they are unmotivated, dissatisfied, and much less prod...

2023-05-2320 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 108: How Leaders Focus Externally to Improve the Customer ExperienceDetails Have you ever been on the phone for an hour with customer service, and once you finally get to talk to a human to resolve your issue, they only say: “I’m sorry, I can’t help you.” And it’s true; they can’t. They don’t have the power or authority to resolve the problem. It’s frustrating to both the employee and the customer. So, what impact does a leader have on customer experience? A lot. In this episode, we look at seven of the most valuable capabilities leaders can utilize to influence customer satisfaction. Register f...

2023-04-1917 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 107: 10 Attitudes About Feedback From The Most Effective LeadersDetails Occasionally, people read articles about the best approaches to giving and receiving feedback and may think, “That all sounds great, but what do the most effective leaders actually do?” To answer that question, we combined a self-assessment measuring feedback preference with 360-degree evaluations of leaders to discover the common attitudes of the best leaders about feedback. In this episode, we invite you to challenge your biases and attitude about feedback and see what you can change to be more effective. Key Learnings Corrective feedback is helpful, but the most effective leaders focused on the...

2023-04-1217 min

Podcast - ZENGER FOLKMAN Episode 34: Are You Creating Disgruntled Employees?Details You can’t make every worker happy, surely, and should a business even try? Evidence from our recent research suggests, actually, that the answer is yes. Or rather, our evidence shows that managers are giving up far too soon on their disgruntled employees, making them less productive than they could be, exposing their companies to unnecessary risks from thefts and leaks in the process, and inflating turnover costs. In this episode, we challenge you to ask yourself if you are creating these disgruntled employees. Connect with Joe Folkman: LinkedIn Twitter Webinar ...

2023-03-0815 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 103: Skills, Skills, and More Skills— Finding What the Organization Values MostDetails What skills do you really need from your workforce? What skills are most valuable What are the critical issues? If the answers were clear, every organization would likely change. There are literally thousands of variables that leave leaders baffled as they sift through the clutter of needs and options to decide what is really crucial. Most organizations are not able to fix everything; therefore, they need to prioritize the capabilities that, if changed, would have the greatest impact on the organization’s results. Today, we are exploring how to navigate which skills you need to develop that your com...

2023-03-0116 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 102: Leading with Kindness and AccountabilityDetails Leaders are experiencing more demands for compassion at a time when there’s not a lot of room for compromise on what they have to deliver. Do they have to choose between kindness/compassion and the expectations for performance? We wanted to understand how we maximize support and, at the same time, drive performance. In this episode, we are exploring the link between leading with kindness and accountability. Key Learnings “Tone-deaf compassion is more dangerous and costly than none at all.” Leaders have a big responsibility to figure out what matters to their employees. In this s...

2023-02-1513 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 99: Ordinary Habits of Highly Effective CoachesDetails Habits are things you automatically do every day. It’s your morning routine, how you make your favorite drink, or the fact that you always leave every cabinet door open when you leave a room. It is the actions you perform without thinking because they are ingrained into who you are. Researchers at Duke University estimate that habits account for 40% of daily behaviors. In this podcast episode, we’re looking at the ordinary habits of highly effective coaches. Download our eBook, The Extraordinary Coach. Key Learnings The least effective coaches had direct reports with enga...

2023-01-1116 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 98: Discover and Develop Hidden Talent PoolsDetails Executives in every company we work with express concerns about their ability to attract and retain managerial talent. The solutions for most organizations are to either recruit young workers directly from school and invest in their development, pirate leadership talent from competitors, or find it internally. Of these alternatives, we strongly advocate that organizations first take a close look inside. This 90th Percentile Podcast episode discusses what organizations can do to discover and develop hidden talent pools. Register for Zenger Folkman’s upcoming webinar, The Leadership Edge: Developing Your Company’s Hidden Talent Pools. Key Point...

2023-01-0417 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Audiobook Chapter 8: Trust and SpeedDetails The audiobook version of The Trifecta of Trust: The Proven Formula for Building and Restoring Trust is on sale at AUTHORS DIRECT. The audiobook can also be purchased on AUDIBLE, NOOK, GOOGLE PLAY, KOBO, CHIRP, AUDIOBOOKS.COM, and SCRIBD. If you devote a third of your life to your job, then it is worth focusing on the one trait that will significantly increase your speed. This chapter explores the direct link between trust and speed. Leaders who were the least trusted (the 1st through the 9th percentiles) had a speed rating in the 22nd...

2022-12-1920 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 96: The Unseen Effects of Inspiring LeadershipDetails Download the new eBook, Inspiring in the New Era. A lot has been written about what inspiring leaders DO. From their moving speeches to their magnetic ability to connect. How could you dismiss their powers of persuasion? We often picture inspiring leaders as fearless and attractive because we see them in the movies defeating all odds. But inspiration comes in many forms, through many behaviors and varying approaches. If you look, you will see its influence in both big and small ways. In this episode, we’re discussing the effects of inspiring leadership and what OTHERS BECOME as a res...

2022-12-0614 min

Podcast - ZENGER FOLKMAN Episode 95: Why Do So Many Managers Avoid Giving Praise?Details Why do managers avoid giving praise? When talking with managers about giving feedback, we often hear comments such as, “I did not sleep the night before,” “I just wanted to get it over quickly,” “My hands were sweating, and I was nervous,” and “They don’t pay me enough to do this job.” Because of this anxiety, we find that some managers resist giving their direct reports any critical feedback. But what’s worse than that is that we discovered a larger problem than the lack of corrective feedback because even more managers avoid praising. This podcast episode expl...

2022-11-1610 min

Podcast - ZENGER FOLKMAN Episode 94: Are You Sure You’re Not a Bad Boss?Details Conjure up the term “bad boss,” and what comes to mind? Scenes of red-faced people berating subordinates in public. Smarmy souls taking credit for other people’s work or saying one thing and doing another and cutting remarks. Yelling. Feel free to continue — we’re sure you can. In this podcast episode, we’re digging into what really constitutes lousy behavior and if you might be entering that category. Key Learnings We analyzed the behavior of 30,000 managers, as seen through the eyes of some 300,000 of their peers, direct reports, and bosses on 360-degree evaluations...

2022-11-0113 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 94: Are You Sure You're Not a Bad Boss?Details Conjure up the term “bad boss,” and what comes to mind? Scenes of red-faced people berating subordinates in public. Smarmy souls taking credit for other people’s work or saying one thing and doing another and cutting remarks. Yelling. Feel free to continue — we’re sure you can. In this podcast episode, we’re digging into what really constitutes lousy behavior and if you might be entering that category. Key Learnings We analyzed the behavior of 30,000 managers, as seen through the eyes of some 300,000 of their peers, direct reports, and bosses on 360-degree evaluations; we found that the sins of...

2022-11-0113 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 93: How Leaders Generate EnergyDetails The variety of shortages causing major disruptions has rippling effects that seem to grow more consequential daily. But the one shortage that is the most concerning to us is HUMAN ENERGY. Every employee is under constant pressure to perform as we are being asked to do more with less–to be more productive and effective and to reach greater levels of profitability. Languishing. The great resignation. The great re-evaluation. Quiet quitting. How many more movements do we need to recognize workforces are struggling to get back to “normal”? In today’s episode, we are tackling one of the biggest task...

2022-10-2520 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 88: Keeping Your Name Off the Layoff ListDetails The tides are shifting, and the economic downturn is causing some big corporate layoffs. After doing some research with one firm that had a major layoff, Zenger Folkman found some common traits among those who were let go. In this leadership podcast episode, we’re sharing some helpful tips for keeping your name off that layoff list. Zenger Folkman gathered a substantial amount of data from one U.S.-based Fortune 100 company after it had gone through an organizational downsizing to see if we could identify factors that might predict which people were most likely to be l...

2022-09-2114 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 87: 7 Leadership Behaviors That Improve InvolvementDetails That feeling of not being an insider, but more of an observer, has a profound impact on your engagement, effort, and commitment. Perhaps you’re relishing the freedoms given through your work-from-home schedule or limited office time, but you recognize there may be a disconnect happening. On the other hand, you could be sitting in the office daily surrounded by all the inner workings and still feel out of the loop. In this episode, we explore seven research leadership behaviors that can improve the involvement of team members. Key Points In a group of 3,458 managers for those di...

2022-09-1415 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 86: Quiet Quitting is About Managers, Not EmployeesDetails Quiet quitting is a new name for behavior that has long existed. Today the term is mainly applied to individuals who reject the idea that work should be a central focus of their life. They resist the expectation of giving their all or putting in extra hours. They say “No” to requests to go beyond what they think should be expected of a person in their position. Every employee, every workday, makes a decision. Are they only willing to do the minimum work necessary to keep their job, or are they willing to put 100% of their ener...

2022-09-0616 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 85: Why We’re Growing Organizations All WrongDetails Are we growing leadership in organizations the wrong way? Developing high-potentials isn’t a bad strategy for success—unless you do it at the expense of your other employees. It’s time to focus on leaders at all levels. Organizations die just like trees: They can fail from forces at the top, in the middle, or at the bottom. On nearly every survey that asks senior executives about the bench strength of their leaders, they report that their organizations fall woefully short. When asked to assess their current leadership development efforts and whether they’ll prepare future l...

2022-08-1714 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 84: 4 Ways to Be More Effective at ExecutionDetails Many underestimate how important execution is to their careers, it is true that bosses place a premium on execution, which we define as the ability to achieve individual goals and objectives. There are many parts of your job that are important, but if you want to move ahead in your career, it might be time to double down on simply getting more stuff done – it’s what your boss wants to see. But does being effective at execution mean working longer hours? In this episode, we explore the research showing four things leaders do to excel in execution. Ke...

2022-08-1714 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Trifecta of Trust Audiobook–Chapter 3Details The audiobook version of The Trifecta of Trust: The Proven Formula for Building and Restoring Trust is now available Take advantage of the promotional launch price until August 31st! The audiobook can be purchased on AUDIBLE, NOOK, GOOGLE PLAY, KOBO, CHIRP, AUDIOBOOKS.COM, and SCRIBD. This chapter discusses the three elements of the trifecta of trust: expertise, consistency, and building relationships. The importance of each is illustrated in a harrowing story of a group of smoke jumpers trying to escape from the 1949 Mann Gulch River Valley fire. Connect with Joe Folkman ...

2022-08-0312 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 83: 6 Ways to Boost Engagement During Summer SlumpsDetails With summertime’s flexible and ever-changing schedule, it’s a struggle to stay fully engaged with many distractions and temptations. At the office, you didn’t know what you were missing, but at home, you are very aware. In this episode, we are exploring the research behind how to keep your team engaged during summer slumps, and some of the suggestions might surprise you. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you can meet Jack Zenger and Joe Folkman and join in a conversation about...

2022-07-1916 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 81: To Get Results, Push and Pull Your TeamDetails Over the past year, there has been a call for leaders to be less demanding and more empathetic toward individual employees. They need to inspire and motivate them to work, not demand results! However, our analysis of 360-degree assessments showed that the most effective leaders also know how to push people but are not very good at pulling them. In this episode, we share the research behind the paradox of pushing and pulling your team to achieve exceptional performance. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every...

2022-06-2915 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 79: Team Trust—Establishment and MaintenanceDetails Register for the Trifecta of Trust development session. If I trust you, are you more likely to trust another person? And, if I distrust another person are they more likely to distrust me? Trust is unfortunately a contagious emotion that can spread for good or bad. In this episode, we are discussing the effects of trust within the teams in your organization and what can be done to establish a firm foundation. Order your copy of The Trifecta of Trust: The Proven Formula for Building and Restoring Trust. Connect with Joe Folkman

2022-06-1515 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 78: The Proven Formula for Building TrustDetails Order your copy of The Trifecta of Trust: The Proven Formula for Building and Restoring Trust. In 2019, Joe Folkman wrote an article for Harvard Business Review based on research he conducted on trust in organizations. He found that trust is a leading indicator of whether others evaluate you positively or negatively. But how to create that trust, or perhaps more importantly, how to reestablish it when you’ve lost it isn’t always that straightforward. By analyzing over 100,000 360-degree reviews, he discovered three elements that predict whether a leader will be trusted by his direct reports, peer...

2022-06-1313 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.The Trifecta of Trust– Introduction by Joe FolkmanDetails Order your copy of The Trifecta of Trust: The Proven Formula for Building and Restoring Trust. In Trifecta of Trust, psychometrics and leadership expert Joseph R. Folkman has collected a mountain of compelling data to make the irrefutable case for the value of trust in leadership. His research shows that there are three core behaviors that create and reinforce trust from others. By mastering this leadership trust trifecta, you can increase your success and happiness, both in business and life. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive l...

2022-06-0912 min

Podcast - ZENGER FOLKMAN Episode 77: The Shifting Alliances of PeersDetails As you think about your peers at work, are they some of your best friends, always helpful and supportive, or are they your harshest critics, pointing out your mistakes and flaws? While everyone’s situation is different, the answer to this question often is, “It depends.” Context is critical here, and overtime in an organization, relationships can change significantly. In this episode, we are digging into the shifting alliances of peers and when you should cooperate or compete. To read his latest research, subscribe to Joe Folkman’s LinkedIn Newsletter Leadership Psychometrics. Connect w...

2022-05-1812 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 77: The Shifting Alliances of PeersDetails As you think about your peers at work, are they some of your best friends, always helpful and supportive, or are they your harshest critics, pointing out your mistakes and flaws? While everyone’s situation is different, the answer to this question often is, “It depends.” Context is critical here, and overtime in an organization, relationships can change significantly. In this episode, we are digging into the shifting alliances of peers and when you should cooperate or compete. To read his latest research, subscribe to Joe Folkman’s LinkedIn Newsletter Leadership Psychometrics. Connect with Joe Folkm...

2022-05-1812 min

Podcast - ZENGER FOLKMAN Episode 76: Identifying and Managing Micro-stressorsDetails Stress comes to us all in tiny minor assaults throughout our day through relationships and interactions that are too numerous to shake off quickly. The problem is that most of us have come to accept micro-stresses as just a normal part of a day, but they are wearing us down. In our episode, Karen Dillon joins us to discuss her research on micro-stressors and some approaches that can be used to work through them. Harvard Business Review Article- Don’t Let Micro-Stresses Burn You Out, by Rob Cross, Jean Singer, and Karen Dillon ...

2022-05-1100 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 74: Igniting Your InitiativeDetails Inertia is ever-present and always powerful. That’s why people who are skilled at taking initiative stand out. There are energizer bunnies that keep going and going and leave the rest of us wondering how do they do it without burning out? In this episode, we share the secrets of taking initiative and keeping yourself motivated and energized at work. To read his latest research, subscribe to Joe Folkman’s LinkedIn Newsletter Leadership Psychometrics. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you can m...

2022-04-2715 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 73: Remastering The Extraordinary LeaderDetails The decision a leader makes regarding their leadership behavior has a profound impact on their career, and the performance of those reporting to them. But the great majority of leaders began their careers with the target of being a good accountant, engineer, marketer, or analyst. Few had set their sights on being an extraordinary leader. Over 30 years of research, practice, and implementation of leadership practices in hundreds of organizations have led us to learn some vital lessons. In today’s episode, we’re sharing five important insights on how extraordinary leaders are made. Learn more...

2022-04-2117 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 71: 6 Ways Creative Superstars Lead DifferentlyDetails We all love a chance to think through how to do something different and express originality. But most days, most work feels fundamental. Why do organizations have so much trouble facilitating employee creativity? In this episode, we discuss how you can become a creative superstar. To read his latest research, subscribe to Joe Folkman’s LinkedIn Newsletter Leadership Psychometrics. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you can meet Jack Zenger and Joe Folkman and join in a conversation about their latest rese...

2022-03-3013 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 69: Would You Choose to Fly or Be Invisible?Details How much can you learn about someone from a silly question? We’ve been collecting data from the business and professional leaders who read our articles. The question we asked was this, “If you were given a choice of two special powers, which would you prefer? A. Ability to fly or B. Power to be invisible.” Believe it or not, the answer to this question provides some interesting insights into business and professional leaders around the world. To read his latest research, subscribe to Joe Folkman’s LinkedIn Newsletter Leadership Psychometrics. Connect with Joe Folkman

2022-03-1610 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 68: Why We Need More Helpful LeadersDetails Helping and serving others reinforces the connection people have with their colleagues, but it also increases our sense of well-being and can lower depression. So what does the world need right now? In this episode, we are exploring the behaviors of those who are deemed, helpful leaders. To read his latest research, subscribe to Joe Folkman’s LinkedIn Newsletter Leadership Psychometrics. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you can meet Jack Zenger and Joe Folkman and join in a conversation about the...

2022-03-0912 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 66: Cultivating ConsistencyDetails If a basketball, football, or baseball team wins nine games out of 10, most people assume that this is an outstanding team. Sports teams do not win every game. It would not be that entertaining to watch the games if they did. But what if a person delivers on their commitments nine times out of 10 times? That sounds like a pretty good record; people do not need to be perfect after all. The big problem with a 90% win record is what people tend to remember when you fail to deliver expected results. In this podcast episode, we discuss the...

2022-02-2308 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 65: I’m the Boss! Why Should I Care if You Like Me?Details Many people assume that it’s possible for a person to be an effective leader without being really likable. After all, work isn’t a popularity contest. That is technically true, but you may not like the odds. In this episode, we’re revealing why even if you’re a senior leader or project manager you still should care if people like you. Self-Directed Course Learn more about our short course Mastering Confidence: Build a Presence that Elevates Performance. Connect with Jack Zenger LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, w...

2022-02-1612 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 64: 8 Traits of Practically Perfect Problem SolversDetails An essential skill we need in practically every life scenario is the ability to analyze and solve problems. While we would all love to have someone to do the work for us, most of the time, we need to figure it out ourselves. So what kind of skills do practically perfect problem solvers possess? That is what we are answering in this episode. Subscribe to Joe Folkman’s LinkedIn Newsletter Leadership Psychometrics, to read his latest research. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every mon...

2022-02-0913 min

Podcast - ZENGER FOLKMAN Episode 63: How to Improve When You’re Not Getting FeedbackDetails Too many managers avoid giving any kind of feedback, regardless of whether it’s positive or negative. If you work for a boss who doesn’t provide feedback, it’s easy to feel rudderless. In this episode, we will discuss how to improve at work when you’re not getting feedback. New Self-Directed Course Learn more about our short course Mastering Confidence: Build a Presence that Elevates Performance. Connect with Jack Zenger LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you can meet...

2022-02-0214 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 62: How to Eliminate Poor Role ModelsDetails Perhaps you have seen the Where’s Waldo? books. When placed in a crowd or a complex surrounding, Waldo is an odd individual who becomes difficult to find. Often, when a leader fails to be a good role model or sets a bad example, they believe that their actions will be hidden, much like Waldo. In reality, when a leader sets a bad example, they are more like an onstage actor with a spotlight shining directly on them. In this episode, we’re revealing how to spot and eliminate poor role models from your organization. Subscribe to Jo...

2022-01-2612 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 61: 5 Ways to Impress Your Boss in 2022Details It’s that time of year to make plans and whether you’ve been at your job for many years or are just beginning it always helps to keep in mind some ways that you can impress your boss and progress in your career path. In this episode, we’re sharing our research on five different ways to stand out this year. Subscribe to Joe Folkman’s LinkedIn Newsletter Leadership Psychometrics, to read his latest research. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you...

2022-01-1911 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 60: The Balance Between Coaching and ManagingDetails Ask 100 people if they have good common sense, and more than 95% will tell you they do. Ask them if they are good coaches, and almost as many will say yes. Executives we talk to assume that if they’re good managers, then being a good coach is like your shadow on a sunny day. It just naturally follows. But what if it doesn’t. In this episode, we are discussing how to find the balance between coaching and managing. Join us on January 25 & 27 for our award-winning development experience, The Extraordinary Coach! You’ll learn the framework, mindset...

2022-01-1112 min

Podcast - ZENGER FOLKMAN Episode 59: Expanding Access to CoachingDetails Demand for coaching within organizations is exploding. Yet certain barriers seem to be blocking the way for coaching to reach its full potential. In this episode, we will discuss the expanding access to coaching and the best practices every leader and organization should follow. Join us on May 23 & 24 for our award-winning development experience, The Extraordinary Coach! You’ll learn the framework, mindset, and skills to help others grow. SPECIAL OFFER – Save 50% If your organization is new to Zenger Folkman and would like to attend The Extraordinary Coach for evaluation purposes, use this code...

2022-01-0414 min

Podcast - ZENGER FOLKMAN Happy Holidays from Jack and JoeThanks for tuning into The 90th Percentile Podcast this year. In the book, Blueprint, the Yale scholar Nikolas Christakis, argues that over time we have developed a set of highly beneficial social features that lead us to love, community, friendships, and cooperation. He contends that we cannot escape our overall blueprint for goodness. After reviewing scientific evidence from both the animal and human spheres, he concludes: “This project of evolutionary sociology reveals that humans everywhere are pre-wired to make a particular kind of society—one full of love, friendship, cooperation, and learning. We wish y...

2021-12-2103 min

Podcast - ZENGER FOLKMAN Episode 58: Heroes, Zeros, and GuidesDetails Are you the type of leader who will work hard, assume the risk, and try to save everyone? Are you the type that looks to develop those around you and give them the opportunity to grow? Or are you just getting the job done? What types of leaders do organizations need most? In this episode, we are discussing the benefits and downfalls of different types of leaders. Subscribe to Joe Folkman’s LinkedIn Newsletter Leadership Psychometrics, to read his latest research. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zen...

2021-12-1512 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 58: Heroes, Zeros, and GuidesDetails Are you the type of leader who will work hard, assume the risk, and try to save everyone? Are you the type that looks to develop those around you and give them the opportunity to grow? Or are you just getting the job done? What types of leaders do organizations need most? In this episode, we are discussing the benefits and downfalls of different types of leaders. Subscribe to Joe Folkman’s LinkedIn Newsletter Leadership Psychometrics, to read his latest research. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exc...

2021-12-1512 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 57: 7 Things Leaders Do to Help People ChangeDetails Have you ever tried to change anyone’s behavior at work? It can be extremely frustrating. So often the effort produces an opposite result: rupturing the relationship, diminishing job performance, or causing the person to dig in their heels. Still, some approaches clearly work better than others. We reviewed a dataset of 2,852 direct reports of 559 leaders. The direct reports rated their managers on 49 behaviors and also assessed the leaders on their effectiveness at leading change – specifically, the managers’ ability to influence others to move in the direction the organization wanted to go. In this podcast episode, we discuss seven thi...

2021-12-0815 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 54: The Rapunzel Effect– Connecting to the Outside WorldDetails What value is there in connecting with the outside world? What perspective can we gain from leaving our environment and gaining knowledge from the world around us? It turns out, being stuck inside your tower has a strong influence on some very key leadership skills. In this episode, we will explain the pitfalls of what we call the Rapunzel effect. Subscribe to Joe Folkman’s LinkedIn Newsletter Leadership Psychometrics, to read his latest research. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you can...

2021-11-1715 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 50: Balancing Confidence and CompetenceDetails If you choose an individual to lead you to victory or safety, chances are you will choose the most confident person. Their confidence will inspire and motivate you to achieve great things. That’s what makes them great leaders. But there is a darker side to the confidence that erodes trust and turns away once eager followers. That side is the overconfidence that is considered arrogance. In this episode, we discuss balancing the scales of confidence with competence. Check out our new course: Mastering Confidence: Build a Presence that Elevates Performance. Connect with Joe Folk...

2021-10-2011 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 49: Lessons in Empathy and Competitiveness from Ted LassoDetails Over the last couple of years, we have all experienced the importance the empathy in the workplace. We’ve had a rough time and it’s important to know your boss actually cares about you. Last year, the character Ted Lasso appeared on Apple TV’s new hit comedy show and taught us all some profound lessons in kindness. But he also showed his weakness in his lack of competitive drive. In this episode, we examine relationship building and competitiveness and how they can work together to make you a better leader. Connect with Joe Folkman Lin...

2021-10-1313 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 47: Three Myths About Your StrengthsDetails One of the most dramatic changes in leadership development in the last decade has been the shift in focus from correcting weaknesses to identifying and expanding on strengths. As this movement continues to catch hold, three myths have emerged that deserve to be dispelled. Key Learnings From the podcast, here are some key learnings and insights: 1. Shift in Leadership Development Focus: Over the last decade, there has been a significant shift in leadership development from correcting weaknesses to identifying and expanding on strengths. This shift is considered a more effective approach to leadership development.

2021-09-2910 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 40: The Curious Case of Women’s Strategic ThinkingDetails We found that while women generally outperform their male counterparts on most leadership competencies, they are not perceived by their managers, peers, and subordinates as being as adept at strategic thinking as their male counterparts. This gap between women and men in perceived strategic thinking skills begins early, but by age 50, the difference vanishes. In this episode, we are unraveling the research around this curious case. Register for the Webinar–The Confidence Gap: Overcome Doubts with Data That Builds You Up. Connect with Jack Zenger LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webina...

2021-07-0614 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 37: Companies Are Bad At Identifying High Potential EmployeesDetails A high-potential employee is usually in the top 5% of employees in an organization. These people are thought to be the organization’s most capable, most motivated, and most likely to ascend to positions of responsibility and power. To help these employees prepare for leadership roles in a thoughtful, efficient manner, companies often institute formal high-potential (HIPO) programs. In this episode, we discuss how some of these chosen elites don’t belong there and how to spot the truly high potentials in your organization. Register for the webinar– Succession Planning: Drop the HI-PO Hopes and Build a Solid...

2021-06-1815 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 36: Why the Most Productive People Don’t Always Make the Best ManagersDetails When a company needs a supervisor for a team, senior leaders often anoint the team’s most productive performer. Some of these stars succeed in their new role as manager; many others do not. And when they fail, they tend to leave the organization, costing the company double: Not only has the team lost its new manager but it’s also lost the best individual contributor. And the failure can be personally costly for the new manager, causing them to doubt their skills, smarts, and future career path. Everyone loses. In this episode, we will explore why the most...

2021-06-1515 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 35: 7 Traits of Super-Productive PeopleDetails Is there someone on your team who seems unusually productive? Someone who gets a huge amount done — without working longer hours? How do they do it? That’s what their coworkers usually wonder. We wanted to know too. In this episode, we share the results from a study with 7,000 employees showing which skills define these super productive heroes of the workplace. Connect with Jack Zenger LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you can meet Jack Zenger and Joe Folkman, and join in a conversation about their latest research in leader...

2021-06-0210 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 34: Are You Creating Disgruntled Employees?Details You can’t make every worker happy, surely, and should a business even try? Evidence from our recent research suggests, actually, that the answer is yes. Or rather, our evidence shows that managers are giving up far too soon on their disgruntled employees, making them less productive than they could be, exposing their companies to unnecessary risks from thefts and leaks in the process, and inflating turnover costs. In this episode, we challenge you to ask yourself if you are creating these disgruntled employees. Connect with Joe Folkman: LinkedIn Twitter Webinar ...

2021-06-0115 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 29: The Best Problem Solvers Are Solution SellersDetails There are many things competing for your attention every minute of the day. Attention, not money, is the most valuable commodity there is. Solving a complex problem is an exciting experience, but what happens when people don’t accept your solution? It’s true that one big hurdle with problem-solving is knowing how to sell the solution and get others on board. In this episode, we are analyzing the strengths of the best problem solvers and solution sellers. Register for the webinar: Faster, Smarter, and Better Ways to Analyze and Solve Problems. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter...

2021-04-1211 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 27: What Makes a Leader Resilient?Details A resilient leader is a person who sees failures as temporary setbacks they can recover from quickly. They maintain a positive attitude and a strong sense of opportunity during periods of turbulence. When faced with ambiguity, a resilient leader finds ways to move forward and avoids getting stuck. It’s a skill you didn’t know you need until you really need it. In this episode, Joe Folkman shares research about the qualities of the most resilient leaders and how they became that way. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live...

2021-03-3014 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 25: Elements of the Best 360-Degree AssessmentsDetails The 360-degree assessment is a central component in most leadership development programs. But not all assessments are in the same class when it comes to the value they offer individual leaders and the benefits they offer the organizations using them. In this episode, we will discuss the eight elements that separate the average from the best 360-degree assessments on the market. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you can meet Jack Zenger and Joe Folkman, and join in a conversation about their latest research in...

2021-03-0915 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 23: Are Women Better Leaders Than Men?Details We’ve all heard the claims, the theories, and the speculation about the ways leadership styles vary between women and men. There are of course many factors that contribute to this absence of a greater abundance of women in senior-level positions. For centuries, there have been broad, cultural biases against women, and stereotypes die slowly. Zenger Folkman’s current data presents even more compelling evidence that this bias is incorrect and unwarranted. In the episode, we discuss the effectiveness of female leaders and how they compare to men. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman...

2021-02-2317 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 21: Strategic Thinking: The Skill Required For AdvancementDetails Many qualified candidates that are ready to be promoted never see it happen. But what if this common problem that leaders experience could be solved with one overlooked leadership quality. If you want to move up, then research shows you need to start working on your strategic thinking skills. In this episode, we will be discussing not only how to be a strategic thinker but how to help others perceive you as one. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you can meet Jack...

2021-02-0915 min

90th Percentile Leadership: Insights. Backed by Data.Episode 5: What Great Listeners Actually DoDetails Chances are you think you’re a great listener. People’s appraisal of their listening ability is much like their assessment of their driving skills, in that the great bulk of adults think they’re above average. What really makes a manager a great listener? Many assume that it involves three components: not interrupting the speaker, following along with facial expressions, and being able to repeat back almost verbatim what the speaker has just said. However, our research at Zenger Folkman shows we’re doing it all wrong. Instead of thinking of a great listener as a sponge...

2020-10-0616 min