3 Realities Leaders Can’t Ignore with Cheryl Fields Tyler

In the latest episode of The Leadership Habit Podcast, host Jenn DeWall sat down with Cheryl Fields Tyler, founder and CEO of Blue Beyond Consulting, to discuss three critical realities leaders and people managers today cannot afford to overlook. As organizations face rapid change and shifting workforce demographics, understanding these realities is crucial for success. 

Meet Cheryl Fields Tyler, CEO of Blue Beyond Consulting

Cheryl Fields Tyler is the founder and CEO of Blue Beyond Consulting. Cheryl’s focus for over 30 years has been building organizations where both the business and the people thrive.  Her distinct, innovative, and practical perspective has been featured in various media outlets, including the BBC, CNBC, Fast Company, and Forbes.  In 2020, she received the  For All Leader award from the Great Place to Work® Institute. Under her leadership, Blue Beyond has been repeatedly recognized as one of the Best Small & Medium Workplaces by FORTUNE and as an Inc. 5000 company.

Reality #1:  Demography is Destiny

In the episode, Cheryl Fields Tyler explains that the demographics of the workforce have shifted dramatically. With the Baby Boomer generation retiring and Millennials and Gen Z stepping into leadership roles, organizations must acknowledge the unique pressures facing younger generations. “If we don’t understand the demographic realities of those generations, we will not be able to effectively mentor and develop the next generation of leaders,” says Cheryl.

She points out that the cost of education, housing, and the burden of student debt weigh heavily on younger employees. These economic factors are not a sign of entitlement but a reality that leaders and people managers must consider. Providing support, flexibility, and understanding these pressures can help bridge the generational gap.

Mentorship across generations is critical. “Your older leaders can learn from your younger leaders, and your younger leaders can learn from your older leaders,” Cheryl advises. Reciprocal learning will ensure that organizations continue to thrive through generational transitions.

Reality #2: Amplifying the Signal, Reducing the Noise

Leaders today must help their teams focus on what matters most. “Leadership’s number one job is amplifying the signal and reducing the noise,” Cheryl emphasizes. Clear and focused communication is essential for success in a world full of distractions, from social media to constant emails.

Unfortunately, most organizations fall short when it comes to communication. According to Cheryl, “Only 26% of knowledge workers think their organizations are doing a really good job” at communicating effectively. To change this, leaders must prioritize communication that is human, compelling, and visual. Employees need to understand not only the ‘what’ but also the ‘why’ behind organizational goals and priorities.

Help your employees stay focused by clearly communicating what’s important. Cheryl suggests, “You have to have rich, compelling, human visuals as well as words” to cut through the noise and keep teams aligned.

Reality #3: The Future is in the Hands of People Managers

Cheryl highlights a timeless truth: “People leave managers, not organizations.” The role of the people manager is crucial in unlocking the potential of teams and individuals. Unfortunately, good people management is often undervalued and under-supported within organizations. Cheryl advocates for more significant investment in people management training and building a community of leaders who can learn from each other.

Organizations can ensure that their teams are engaged and thriving by supporting people managers with training in areas like psychological safety, feedback, and motivation. Cheryl says, “The future is in the hands of our people managers. If we can unlock them, we can unlock our organizations.”

People managers need the right tools, training, and peer support to lead effectively. Invest in developing this vital role to ensure long-term organizational success.

The Future is Human

Cheryl leaves us with an important message: “The future is human.” As technology and automation continue to advance, it’s more important than ever for leaders to focus on the human side of business. Understanding the realities of today’s workforce, prioritizing communication, and empowering people managers will set organizations up for long-term success.

Where to Find More from Cheryl Fields Tyler

• 
  
• Connect on LinkedIn
  
• Visit BlueBeyondConsulting.com
  
• Email her at: cheryl@bluebeyondconsulting.com 
  

Learn More About Crestcom

Want to learn more about how leadership development can give you the skills to meet the challenges of today’s workplace? Request a complimentary leadership skills workshop at crestcom.com/freeworkshop, where we help leaders unlock their full potential.

 

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