Sikich University: Recent Episodes

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Stress and burnout are harder to avoid in the virtual first environment. Understanding what refreshes you is an easy and effective way to reduce stress and stay in the zone!

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Stress and burnout are harder to avoid in the virtual first environment. Understanding what refreshes you is an easy and effective way to reduce stress and stay in the zone! 

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Main Topics Covered

1. Cadence and Timing
2. Tips and Tricks for Communicating Effectively.
3. Developing a Team Charter

Communication Audit

On a scale of 1-5, answer the following questions:

1. How effective is your current communication structure with the team?
2. How effective is your communication from your team's perspective?
3. What stands in the way of getting a score of 5 on both the previous questions?

Cadence and Timing

1. At least 1 weekly all-team meeting of 45 minutes, but preferable 2 meetings (a short meeting at the beginning of the week and a longer meeting towards the end of the week).
2. Weekly 1-on-1 meetings with all your direct reports, even if they are very short.

Tips and Tricks for Communicating Effectively

1. Create space for dialogue
2. Track meeting notes and agendas in a specific place
3. Offer the agenda in advance
4. Be as clear as possible on news, updates, and direction at the organizational level.
5. Save time for fun
6. Create notes that build upon previous meetings and be acted on

Developing a Team Charter

1. Mission Statement and Core Values
2. Ways of Working and Norms
3. Big Rocks, Goals, and OKS
4. Meeting roles and responsibilities for team members
5. Clear swim lanes for group tasks