In our latest LinkedIn Live, Jen Smollett, an expert women’s leadership coach and advocate of positive psychology, delves into how harnessing personal strengths can transform leadership skills. She champions a strengths-based methodology, drawing from the principles of positive psychology and acceptance and commitment therapy, to boost happiness and well-being. Jen suggests taking the VIA Character Institute’s complimentary strength test and discussing how to maintain a healthy balance to prevent the overutilisation of these strengths.
The session explores how these strategies apply to leadership, the significance of recognising team members’ strengths, and their collective positive effects on workplace culture. The discussion also touches on the critical roles of self-determination, autonomy, and relatedness in professional settings, offering insights on overcoming imposter syndrome. Jen also introduces her “Unstoppable Leader” programme, inviting attendees to discover more about her leadership coaching services.
Enjoyed this conversation with Jen? Then why not catch this LinkedIn Live replay in which Jen gives her expert advice on being a resilient leader – whatever life throws at you? Watch here.
Timestamps
Unleashing leadership potential (00:00:01)
Jen Smollett introduces the topic of unleashing leadership potential and using strengths for maximum impact in the live session.
Importance of strengths (00:00:36)
Jen Smollett discusses the importance of strengths, positive psychology, and the extensive research around using strengths in life and leadership.
Benefits of knowing strengths (00:02:11)
The discussion focuses on the benefits of knowing and using strengths, including happiness, well-being, and the impact on leadership and life.
Identifying strengths (00:04:22)
The conversation covers advice on identifying strengths, including a free strength test and the importance of reflecting on individual strengths.
Using strengths in life (00:06:44)
The topic delves into the practical application of strengths in daily life, such as finding ways to incorporate strengths into various aspects of life.
Changing strengths (00:08:44)
The segment explores the possibility of changing strengths and the importance of focusing on strengths aligned with values and goals.
Balancing strengths (00:10:21)
The discussion highlights the need to balance using strengths, avoid overuse, and align strengths with overall life and leadership plans.
Coaching on strengths (00:11:36)
Jen Smollett outlines the coaching process for individuals to identify and utilise their strengths, particularly in a leadership context.
Group dynamics and strengths (00:12:57)
The conversation emphasises the benefits of group exercises for identifying strengths and fostering appreciation and understanding of others’ strengths.
Using strengths in leadership (00:13:46)
The discussion focuses on incorporating strengths into leadership, including utilising strengths in team management and job planning.
All strengths are useful (00:14:23)
The segment addresses the usefulness of all strengths and the importance of authentic leadership aligned with individual strengths.
Motivation and Performance (00:16:30)
Discussion on motivation theory, autonomy, relatedness, and their impact on performance at work.
Leadership Coaching Programme (00:17:29)
Details about the leadership programme, including individual and team assessments and the focus on building confidence in leaders.
Reasons for Joining the Programme (00:18:46)
Common reasons why individuals join the leadership programme include feeling inadequate, lacking formal training, and struggling with work-life balance.
Impact on Work-Life Balance (00:20:00)
The overflow of leadership insecurities into personal life affects work-life balance and the struggle to feel good enough.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome (00:22:40)
Tips for building confidence and overcoming imposter syndrome include focusing on strengths and maintaining an achievement log.
Unstoppable Leadership Programme Details (00:25:03)
Details about Jen’s upcoming leadership programme, including the start date, extended duration, and focus on different leadership modules.
Monthly Meetup and Cost (00:27:24)
Information about the frequency of sessions, the decision to hold them during the day, and the programme’s cost.
Accessing the Programme (00:29:03)
Ways to learn more about the programme, including booking a call, sending an email, or connecting through LinkedIn.
Conclusion and Easter Wishes (00:29:34)
Thanking the audience for watching and wishing everyone a lovely Easter.
Show Links
Connect with Jen Smollett on LinkedIn
Connect with Elizabeth Willetts on LinkedIn
Find out about Jen’s Coaching Programme
Find the Via Character Strengths Survey Here
Investing in Women Flexible Working Job Board and Recruitment Site