In this enlightening episode of "The Business Philosopher" podcast, we delve into the concept of creating high-performing organizations that not only thrive but also outlast their founders. Host Bhavesh Nayak and his guest, Idil Kharateki, discuss strategies for developing strong relationships and positive communication within a company. Idil, the host of the "Hundred Sum Game" podcast, brings her expertise on negotiation tactics that foster win-win outcomes, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and empathetic leadership.
What is a Zero Sum Game?
Idil begins by explaining the concept of a zero-sum game:
"In the simplest terms, if you win, I lose. If I win, you lose."
This mindset, according to Idil, is detrimental to creating sustainable, impactful organizations. It fosters competition over collaboration, which can stifle innovation and growth.
Moving Beyond Zero Sum: Introduction to Hundred Sum Game
Idil introduces the concept of the "Hundred Sum Game," which revolves around creating scenarios where all parties can benefit. This ethos is especially vital in business environments, where cooperation can lead to increased efficiency and better results.
Studying Economics and Psychology
Idil's background in economics and psychology provided her with a unique perspective on business relationships. She emphasizes that organizations are made up of people with natural human emotions:
"Just like crying, feeling jealousy, anger, and fear are all natural emotions."
This understanding led her to advocate for practices that make people feel valued and respected.
The Importance of Relationships in Business
Bhavesh and Idil agree that the strength of relationships within an organization directly impacts its success. Bhavesh asserts, and Idil agrees, that:
"Relationships are the glue that holds the organizations together and makes them strong or weak."
Creating a positive, non-toxic work environment is crucial for fostering innovation and retaining talent.
Pitfalls of a Zero-Sum Culture
Idil discusses the negative consequences of a zero sum culture within an organization. Such an environment can lead to poor employee morale, reduced innovation, and ultimately, financial decline. A toxic culture can deter top talent and damage the company's reputation.
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Building a Hundred Sum Game Culture
Empathy and Understanding
One of the key principles of building a hundred sum game organization is empathy. Idil suggests that leaders should always consider the perspectives and emotions of their employees. She shares a tactic from Chris Voss, a negotiation expert:
"Every day before you go to work, you should look in the mirror and say, 'It's not about you.”
This mindset helps leaders focus on the needs and feelings of their teams, fostering a more collaborative and supportive environment.
Positive Communication
Idil emphasizes the importance of positive communication in enhancing employee performance. She notes that:
"You are 31% smarter when you're in a positive mood."
Leaders should strive to create a positive atmosphere where employees feel heard and appreciated.
Listening Over Speaking
"You're in control of the conversation when you're listening, not when you're speaking."
By listening more and speaking less, leaders can gain valuable insights and build stronger connections with their teams.
Practical Implementation
Idil provides practical tips for implementing these principles:
“Before you have a big conversation, scenario play it in your head."
Preparing for various outcomes can help leaders navigate complex negotiations and conversations more effectively.
Dynamic Silence
"Don't be afraid of silence. Use it to get the other party thinking."
Allowing pauses in conversation can lead to deeper reflection and more meaningful dialogue.
Anchors and Emotional Regulation
Idil suggests using physical anchors like a pen or a glass to manage stress during difficult conversations. This helps shift focus away from negative emotions and maintain composure.
Real-World Examples
Idil shares a personal experience to illustrate the impact of empathetic leadership. In a previous job, her manager's lack of understanding and support led to decreased morale and productivity among the team. A more supportive approach could have fostered a positive environment and better results.
The Role of Managers
Managers play a crucial role in shaping the culture of their organizations. Idil advises managers to:
Avoid Task Management Focus: Managers should focus on understanding their team's feelings and motivations, not just on task completion.
Engage in Difficult Conversations: Avoiding difficult conversations can lead to unresolved issues and decreased trust.
Delegate and Empower: Giving employees autonomy can boost their confidence and performance.
Long-Term Vision
Creating a hundred sum game culture involves a long-term vision. Idil stresses that such a culture can lead to sustainable growth, innovation, and financial success.
Conclusion
Building high-performing organizations is about more than just achieving business goals; it's about fostering an environment where everyone can thrive. By adopting the principles of the hundred sum game, leaders can create a more collaborative, innovative, and successful organization. As Idil eloquently puts it:
"Increase the size of the pie, and everyone wins."
For more insights on creating win-win scenarios in business, check out Idil's "Hundred Sum Game" podcast.
Connect with Idil Karateke
You can reach Idil through:
Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on "The Business Philosopher" podcast.
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