Dr David Rock from the NeuroLeadership Institute is set to deliver a keynote address at the 2021 IPAA National Conference this October.

Neuroleadership has come into the spotlight in recent years, with Dr Rock, in fact, coining the term ‘Neuroleadership’ in recognition that a more concrete, science-based approach to growing soft skills would not just resonate with organisational leaders but also make any change initiative more effective.

Applying Neuroleadership Approaches to ‘Ride the Wave of Transformation’

The theme of this year’s National Conference ‘Riding the Wave of Transformation’ will reflect upon the opportunities and changes we have faced as a public service in recent times, and what the future might look like. Neuroleadership approaches to leadership can provide us with new ways to build a positive culture in the workplace that enhances performance and outcomes by understanding the innate psychological principles influencing the behaviour and responses of staff.

In this article ‘How you can apply Neuroleadership to manage others’ we explore the key principles of neuroleadership at a glance. As a topic that many of us might have encountered at only a cursory level, it’s important to understand how this area of leadership development can help you in leading teams or organisations that are engaged, satisfied, productive and motivated. The vital principle of the ‘threat – reward’ response illustrated below highlights the positive outcomes of environments that put our brains in the reward state, and in turn, the adverse effects of perceived threats in the environment.

Where can I learn more about Neuroleadership?

You can take the next steps in applying neuroleadership principles to your leadership style with several opportunities coming up…

• Neuroleadership  (half-day intensive professional development course) – 23 May

More About Dr David Rock

The NeuroLeadership Institute is now a 23-year-old cognitive science consultancy that has advised more than 50% of the Fortune 100. With operations in 24 countries, the Institute brings neuroscientists and leadership experts together to make organisations better for humans through science. David has a professional doctorate in the Neuroscience of Leadership, and is the author of four books including Your Brain at Work, a business-bestseller. He has written for and been quoted in hundreds of articles about leadership, organizational effectiveness, and the brain which can be found in Harvard Business Review, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Business Insider, CNBC, Forbes, Fortune, Inc., USA Today, BBC, The Boston Globe and more.

Chief Executive of the Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Nick Reade joined us for an insightful conversation to share his focus and agenda, as well as some leadership lessons and advice for emerging and current leaders in the sector.

Nick has a wealth of experience from across the South Australian business sector and has a passion for innovation and growth, which has been reflected across his previous roles in finance and banking.

Continue your education

For all developing and existing leaders, “Education is absolutely critical,” Nick said.

“Not only does having continuous education help you progress and perform, but it also impacts how others perceive you. Focusing not only on our technical skills; though these are undoubtedly essential; it is vital to build skills that will increase your credibility and confidence,” he said.

Nick’s advice is to look for opportunities for growth. By furthering his learning in strategic development, his leadership potential grew, and his confidence increased as others acknowledged his credibility and insight. Nick also shared that seeking feedback from others can be very beneficial when deciding what avenues of education to pursue.

“Sometimes we don’t always see these growth areas ourselves.”

“Having an outside source to help you identify these will assist you in planning your next steps towards education and professional development.”

 

Setting the Light on the Hill

From Nick’s experience as a leader, he says being strategic and collaborative is essential to leading others, as well as setting a light on the hill to guide your people. Strategic goal setting drives a collaborative approach and can help give teams a joint sense of purpose with clear outcomes.

Developing or current leaders can apply this concept to many situations that arise in teams and organisations. The mindset focuses on being able to think strategically about identifying and reaching goals.

“How you are going to get your team to arrive at the destination ‘with you’?” Nick propositioned.

 

Making Difficult Decisions

Looking back at his time in the banking sector, Nick reflected on some decisions made and measures taken to ensure organisations in his leadership continued to grow and thrive. He said that whilst he initially felt the anxiety and worry from these tough choices, making these decisions were for the benefit of the organisation, allowing it to continue to deliver stronger and better services. For leaders, this highlights the importance of understanding that you will sometimes be called on to make hard decisions, but to have courage and belief in what you are doing.

Never Chase the Next Thing

In Nick’s own words “Never chase the next thing.” It’s important to get down to work and focus on the job you are doing now and to put all your effort into that, rather than always focusing on the job you may have next. In his experience, excelling at your current role will give you access to more opportunities in the future, as others will want to ‘come to you’ as they value your work ethic, capability and commitment.

The Difference Between a Mentor and a Sponsor

Engaging in mentorship is very valuable in Nick’s opinion, and can be a great help in sharing and seeking advice, whilst benefiting from others’ experiences. A sponsor, however, is a little bit different.

Though they can be similar, and mentors can become your best sponsors, the main difference is that sponsors are people that will advocate on your behalf to help you access new opportunities, giving you a real boost to your career.

Finding a sponsor can be challenging, but can be mutually beneficial. Showcase your capabilities and commitment by delivering for others who you may be already working with in some capacity, to demonstrate your value to potential sponsors to inspire them to open doors for you to walk through.

If you are interested in exploring mentorship we encourage you to get involved with the IPAA SA Personal Member Mentoring Program as either a mentee or a mentor.