In this episode, I sit down with Doug Dennerline, CEO of BetterWorks, to discuss how fostering Continuous Engagement can revolutionize workplace culture and team performance. Ranked #422 in the 2024 SAAS 1000 list, BetterWorks is at the forefront of driving employee alignment and productivity. We delve into actionable strategies to promote Continuous Engagement by setting clear goals, creating regular feedback loops, and empowering employees at all levels. Doug shares how leaders can cultivate a proactive mindset across their teams, ensuring ongoing motivation and connection. Tune in to discover how prioritizing Continuous Engagement can drive sustained success for your organization!
- Opening Insights on Leadership
- The Need for Continuous Engagement
- Introduction to Doug Dennerline
- Shaping BetterWorks’ Culture
- Rebuilding Trust in Leadership
- The Role of Tough Conversations
- Creating Psychological Safety
- Principles of Effective Leadership
- Leadership Insights from Data
- Closing Thoughts on Engagement
Empathetic Leadership in Action: A Conversation with Doug Dennerline on Building Trust and Engagement
In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Doug Dennerline, the CEO of BetterWorks, a platform dedicated to fostering continuous employee engagement within organizations. Doug shared his journey as a leader who emphasizes a culture of openness, transparency, and trust. One of the key tenets of his leadership style is the practice of empathetic leadership, which allows him to connect with employees on a personal level. Doug actively reaches out to team members several times a week for informal Zoom sessions, focusing on their individual well-being and professional challenges.
We dove into the importance of creating a culture where employees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and suggestions, especially when it comes to identifying issues within the organization. Doug believes that making it known that he is open to feedback is essential. He frequently encourages employees to voice their concerns, stating, “I can’t fix what I don’t know is broken.” This accessibility reinforces the notion that leadership isn’t just about metrics, but also about understanding the people behind those numbers.
Leading with Purpose: Doug Dennerline on Building Culture, Aligning Goals, and the Role of AI in Engagement
Furthermore, we explored the pivotal role of leadership in driving company culture from the top down. Doug asserted that if leaders are not willing to engage their teams meaningfully, the likelihood of cultivating a thriving workplace culture diminishes significantly. He highlighted the necessity of aligning personal goals with the broader strategy of the company, leading to increased engagement and a sense of belonging among employees. His conviction that people are an organization’s most valuable asset resonated throughout our conversation, emphasizing that performance stems from people who feel valued and understood.
We also touched on the significant impact of tools like AI in the workplace, particularly in facilitating better communication and feedback between managers and team members. Doug discussed how BetterWorks leverages technology not merely to track performance but to enhance the quality of interactions within teams. The platform enables ongoing conversations rather than relying on outdated annual performance reviews, allowing organizations to adapt fluidly to the evolving needs of their employees.
Rebuilding Trust and Inspiring Growth: Doug Dennerline on Empathy, Integrity, and Leadership Lessons
Towards the end of our discussion, Doug shared valuable insights into rebuilding trust within a team, particularly in the aftermath of difficult organizational changes. His experience has taught him that demonstrating integrity and authenticity is vital to restoring confidence in leadership, especially during challenging times. Doug also reflected on learning from past influential leaders, asserting that respect for employees at all levels is key to achieving sustainable growth.
Our conversation wrapped up with a powerful story about John Chambers, former CEO of Cisco, who exemplified extraordinary empathy in leadership. Doug’s recounting served as a reminder that investing in people’s lives, both personally and professionally, creates a culture of engagement that not only fosters loyalty but also significantly enhances organizational performance.
This episode is a deep dive into the significance of empathetic leadership and the foundation it builds for a thriving workplace. If you’re looking to innovate your leadership approach or improve your team’s engagement, Doug’s insights offer practical steps to create a more connected and motivated workforce.
