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No Hard Feelings

summary ofNo Hard FeelingsBook by Liz Fosslien, Mollie West Duffy

13 min
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You’ll learn

  • Why "hello" holds more power than you think
  • The unexpected key to reducing turnover
  • How leaders' vulnerability can be a strength
  • The link between breaks and lower anxiety

first KEY POINT

Small positive actions are excellent ways to build a solid emotional culture at work

Would you rather work in a large office where individuals say “hi” cheerfully to each other in the corridor and share moments of euphoria or bitterness from time to time or one where individuals seem happy but feel dead inside?A workplace with a healthy emotional culture goes a long way in improving working lives. For instance, a study by Kim Cameron, a professor at the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business, found high staff turnover rates in organizations that discourage appreciation and compassion. Then, a study by Barry Staw, a professor at Berkeley, demonstrated that workers tend to make poor decisions if the managers are rude and often overlook vital information.

Small actions of kindness can be especially vital in creating a friendly and productive work environment.

Fortunately, it doesn't take a massive upgrade to support emotional expression in the working environment. Take the case of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Group's 10/5 rule. Their employees are trained to smile and make eye contact once they stroll within ten feet of someone. They say a friendly hello if they are within five feet. The 10/5 rule has been successfully implemented in hospitals, and it appears to make clients, and even the staff, more cheerful.Another approach for creating a positive emotional culture is to develop a sense of belonging. This is a significant investment. A 2017 New York Times article noted that one of the highest causes of turnover is when employees don't feel like they fit in at work. Research by Google demonstrated that workers warmly welcomed by their managers on the first day of work are more productive for at least nine months later.While we have a part to play in developing a healthy emotional culture at work, leaders have a more significant role. This summary shows you how to harness emotions to make positive changes in life.

second KEY POINT

Leaders should show helplessness at times and think carefully about how they share. This shows they relate to their employees

In 2008, Howard Schultz came back to Starbucks as CEO following a break for eight years. He cried on the stage in front of his employees to show his human side. Before his return, Starbucks was having a hard time. They were not making many sales daily. Schultz, who grew up poor, knew that his staff was frightened of what was to come. So, he chose to let out a human emotion that many workers, not to mention CEOs, don’t often do in front of their colleagues.As indicated by a 2012 study in The Leadership Quarterly, leaders need to share how they feel because workers perform better and are friendlier to colleagues when they can personally relate with their leadersHowever, leaders need to contemplate what emotions they share and how they share them. No worker needs to hear that the leader is afraid of the future, with no assurance that things will work out okay.

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first KEY POINT

Being somewhat less energetic about your work will enable you to unwind and minimize anxiety and risk of burnout

second KEY POINT

A few tips can help all of us find new inspiration at work

third KEY POINT

Once you acknowledge the role of emotions in decision-making, you will be able to make better choices

fourth KEY POINT

Teams are more productive and happier when they offer psychological safety

fifth KEY POINT

Conclusion

About the author

Mollie West Duffy is an American author and organizational development expert. Liz Fosslien is an author and a marketing and design consultant.

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Frequently asked questions

What is No Hard Feelings: The Secret Power of Embracing Emotions at Work about?

No Hard Feelings: The Secret Power of Embracing Emotions at Work, authored by Liz Fosslien and Mollie West Duffy, delves into how recognizing and expressing emotions in the workplace can enhance collaboration and improve overall well-being. The book emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and offers practical tools for fostering a supportive work environment.

What are the key takeaways from No Hard Feelings: The Secret Power of Embracing Emotions at Work?

Key takeaways from No Hard Feelings include the idea that acknowledging emotions can lead to better decision-making, improved relationships, and increased employee engagement. The authors provide actionable strategies for cultivating emotional awareness and creating a culture where feelings are valued.

Is No Hard Feelings: The Secret Power of Embracing Emotions at Work worth reading?

Yes, No Hard Feelings is worth reading, especially for professionals and leaders who seek to improve team dynamics and workplace culture. The book blends research-backed insights with relatable anecdotes, making it both informative and engaging.

How many pages is No Hard Feelings: The Secret Power of Embracing Emotions at Work and when was it published?

No Hard Feelings spans approximately 272 pages and was published on June 15, 2021. This length makes it a manageable read packed with valuable insights on emotional intelligence in the workplace.

How can I apply the concepts from No Hard Feelings: The Secret Power of Embracing Emotions at Work to my job?

You can apply concepts from No Hard Feelings by actively fostering open communication and showing vulnerability in your work environment. Implementing regular check-ins to discuss emotions and creating safe spaces for feedback can significantly enhance team morale and productivity.