Doug Howard 3/15/24 Doug Howard 3/15/24

Engineering Management Under Pressure | 5 Strategies to Optimize Team Efficiency

Feeling squeezed as an engineering manager or tech leader? Is your company asking you to do more, with less people and resources?

Don't point fingers - channel your frustration into proactive problem-solving! This video offers 5 actionable strategies to boost your team's productivity and conquer challenges in today's shifting landscape:

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You’ll gain actionable strategies on how to increase team productivity, reduce burnout and turnover, future-proof your team, and make a positive impact from any level - from emerging leader, tech lead, engineering manager, director of engineer, the executive level, and even HR

Stop struggling! Download your FREE handbook to turn pressure into productivity, supercharge your team's efficiency, and conquer any challenge!

Doug Howard 3/8/24 Doug Howard 3/8/24

Using Neuroscience to Create High-Performing Teams [Shannon Smith Part 2]

Are you a manager or leader who’s ready to build a dream team fueled by brainpower?

In this episode, engineer Doug dives deep into the fascinating world of neuroscience with CEO Shannon Smith. They explore how to leverage brain science to:

Boost Team Autonomy: Ditch micromanagement and empower your team to thrive
Build Tribal Connections: Find common ground and create a sense of belonging
Master Empathy: Cultivate understanding and resolve conflicts like a pro
Visualize Success: Guide your team through change with powerful mental imagery
Improve decision-making: Learn about the vagus nerve and how it connects your gut to your brain, giving you powerful gut feelings you shouldn't ignore

Shannon also reveals:

The 12-step system for success: a practical framework to clear your mind, prioritize options, and weigh consequences for any decision, big or small
Powerful hacks like the "Sunday Morning Rule" and the "Whoop Method" to unlock your team's full potential

Doug Howard 3/1/24 Doug Howard 3/1/24

Hack Your Brain to Become a Better Leader [Shannon Smith Part 1]

Are you an engineering manager or tech leader who wants to learn how you can leverage neuroscience to your advantage as a leader?

Join Shannon Smith, CEO of Synoptic Solutions, as she unveils the secrets of hacking your brain for positive change, both at an individual level - as well as within organizational dynamics and change management. This insightful conversation explores neuroscience-backed approaches for personal and professional growth, and delves into cutting-edge strategies for effective team leadership and navigating complexities within today's fast-paced tech industry.

Discover how understanding brain responses to change intertwines with engineering management and tech leadership, fostering empathy and driving innovative strategies.
Gain invaluable insights on visualization, empathy cultivation, and commitment as catalysts for sustainable behavioral change.
Learn from industry experts about harnessing technology, fostering innovation, and steering teams towards success
Immerse yourself in this fusion of neuroscience, leadership, and tech management, uncovering actionable tips to propel your career while empowering your team's triumph in this dynamic landscape

Doug Howard 2/23/24 Doug Howard 2/23/24

Delegate Anything in 5 Simple Steps | Leadership Training for Managers

Are you a manager who is feeling crushed by your workload? Are you stuck doing everything yourself while your team sits idle?

It's time to unleash your team’s full potential, break free from the micromanagement trap, and unlock the true power of delegation!

In this episode, you'll discover a proven 5-step framework that will transform you from an overwhelmed manager to an empowered leader.

Learn how to:

- Identify tasks that are perfect for delegation (even if you don't think there are any!)

- Train and coach your team members for success

- Build trust and encourage ownership

- Finally achieve that elusive work-life balance

Doug Howard 2/16/24 Doug Howard 2/16/24

How to Respectfully Disagree in a Constructive Way

Struggling to voice your opinion without sparking conflict? You're not alone. Disagreements are a natural part of life, but navigating them constructively can be tricky. In this episode, we dive deep into the art of agreeable disagreement - by giving you a guide to expressing your thoughts and feelings while maintaining respect and understanding, and while creating open communication, even when you don't see eye-to-eye.

We'll explore:

- “And” vs “But”: Why one little word can make all the difference in keeping the conversation flowing and fostering collaboration

- Acknowledging their perspective: Discover how validating someone's viewpoint, even if you disagree, lays the foundation for a productive exchange

- Finding common ground: We'll break down the "agree, then add" technique, a powerful tool for building bridges and fostering mutual understanding.

Doug Howard 2/9/24 Doug Howard 2/9/24

Hidden Challenges When Managing Teams with Generational Gaps | Avoiding Toxic Work Culture

Uncover the challenges faced by managers in navigating the intricacies of a multigenerational workforce. This episode delves into the extensive generational gaps impacting teams and companies today.

Gain clarity on the distinctive characteristics, communication styles, and work expectations of Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z individuals. Understand how these divergent values and approaches disrupt team dynamics, affecting productivity, engagement, knowledge transfer, and even leadership styles.

Discover real-life scenarios highlighting the friction caused by intergenerational differences. Learn how misunderstandings, conflicts, and diverging work styles affect team cohesion and productivity. Gain essential insights into effective management strategies and adaptive leadership approaches necessary to bridge these gaps and create a more inclusive work environment.

Explore practical examples illustrating communication disconnects and clashes in work values between generations. Understand how these seemingly minor issues compound, impacting team culture and hindering collaboration. Uncover actionable solutions for managers and leaders to navigate these challenges, so that you can foster an environment that celebrates diversity while nurturing a unified and harmonious workforce.

Are you an engineering manager or technical leader who’s ready to increase your impact and take your leadership skills to the next level?

Doug Howard 2/2/24 Doug Howard 2/2/24

E55 - How Managers Can Effectively Lead a Shrinking Workforce with Huge Generational Gaps | 7 Skills

Are you an engineering manager or tech leader who’s feeling overwhelmed and struggling to navigate the challenges of today's shrinking workforce, tight budgets, freeze hiring, and multigenerational teams?

In this episode we're going to be tackling 3 major issues that are fundamentally transforming the landscape for managers and leaders - and then we’re going to take a look at the 7 critical skills that manager need to navigate through these challenges and effectively build and lead teams in today’s environment!

Explore essential skills like self-awareness, vital for authentic leadership and fostering collaborative work environments. Gain practical tips and tools for developing self-awareness, effective delegation strategies to empower teams and increase resilience, techniques for navigating difficult conversations, delivering constructive feedback for growth, coaching and mentoring methodologies, mastering interviewing skills for finding the right team fit, and honing excellent communication skills to mitigate misunderstandings. Uncover the nuances of each skill and adapt your leadership approach to meet the demands of diverse teams and evolving workplace challenges.

Doug Howard 1/26/24 Doug Howard 1/26/24

5 Open-Ended Questions Every Manager Needs to Know for Powerful Coaching

Tired of micromanaging your team? Wish they would think for themselves, solve problems proactively, and see projects through to completion without needing constant hand-holding?

You're not alone. This is a common struggle for many managers. But there's a simple solution that can transform your team and free up your time to focus on bigger things.

In this episode, you'll learn:

- The 3 root causes why your team might be stuck in their comfort zone and unwilling to take ownership (hint: it's not their fault!)

- 5 powerful question types that will spark critical thinking, boost confidence, and encourage your team to take initiative

- Bonus tips for effective mentoring and building a culture of ownership

By the end of this episode, you'll have the tools and strategies you need to:

- Empower your team to take ownership of their work

- Boost productivity and efficiency

- Reduce your workload and stress

- Build a more engaged and motivated team

Doug Howard 1/19/24 Doug Howard 1/19/24

Managers Aren’t Equipped to Handle These 3 Growing Problems | Toxic Work Environments

Are you struggling to find qualified talent in today's competitive market? Or are you facing a hiring freeze and being asked to do more with less? If so, you're not alone.

This episode explores the four biggest challenges facing engineering and tech leaders today:

- Shrinking Workforce: The tech industry is growing rapidly, but the pool of qualified talent is shrinking. This is making it harder than ever to find and retain top performers.

- Hiring Freezes: With economic uncertainty looming, many companies are implementing hiring freezes. This means that engineering and tech leaders are being asked to do more with less resources.

- Generational Gaps: There are now four generations in the workforce, each with its own unique communication styles, work preferences, and expectations. This can create challenges for managers who need to find ways to effectively communicate and motivate their teams.

- Lack of Leadership Training: Most managers are promoted into their positions based on their technical skills, not their leadership skills. This can lead to a lack of training and experience in areas such as team building, conflict resolution, and performance management.

In this article, we'll discuss the causes of these challenges and provide practical tips for overcoming them.

We'll also cover:

- How this impacts team performance, employee engagement, and workplace culture.

- Real-life examples of how these challenges can manifest in the workplace.

- Resources to help you learn more about each of these challenges.

Doug Howard 1/12/24 Doug Howard 1/12/24

How to Answer "What Are Your Salary Expectations?" During the Job Interview

If you want to master job interviews, you need to know how to tackle salary expectations like a pro.

Watch this episode to gain insider tips from an experienced engineering manager on handling salary expectations in job interviews. Discover the pitfalls of disclosing salary figures too early and learn powerful strategies to maintain leverage while keeping the focus on qualifications. Unveil expert advice to navigate this crucial interview stage and secure your desired compensation package. Don't miss out on essential insights for your next job negotiation.

Doug Howard 1/5/24 Doug Howard 1/5/24

How to Set Boundaries with Difficult People in a Toxic Work Environment

Do you struggle with setting boundaries with difficult people at work?

In this episode, you’ll learn a simple 5 step framework for how to navigate toxic co workers or managers affecting your mental health while establishing clear guidelines to protect your professional dignity.

You’ll also discover the importance of setting boundaries to preserve your mental well-being, prevent burnout, and enhance productivity in challenging work environments. Explore practical examples and actionable insights to assert control over interactions, reduce stress, and foster healthier relationships at work. Dive into this comprehensive guide for a transformative approach to dealing with difficult individuals and reclaiming your professional space.

Doug Howard 12/29/23 Doug Howard 12/29/23

How Burnout Got Me Misdiagnosed for ADHD

In this episode I share the surprising journey I faced when I discovered I was misdiagnosed with ADHD, along with the impact on my personal life and my career as an engineering manager.

We’ll explore the connection between symptoms of burnout, stress, depression, and anxiety - and how it can feel very similar to the stereotypical symptoms you read online about ADHD.

My misdiagnosis created a lot of struggles because it created dependency and reliance on medication (Adderall) that was masking underlying issues - which forced me to rewire my brain after experiencing severe withdrawals.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional or a psychiatrist. The information that I share in this video does not substitute for professional medical advice. This is simply my story and my personal experience with mental health and ADHD and how it impacted me.

Doug Howard 12/22/23 Doug Howard 12/22/23

How to Avoid the 4 Biggest Mistakes Every New Engineering Manager + Tech Leader Makes!

Are you struggling to make the transition from engineer to manager?

Master the transition to an engineering or tech management role with expert strategies.

Learn to avoid common managerial pitfalls, including mindset shifts, time management, effective communication, and tackling the knowledge gap - so that your transition from engineer to engineering manager (or tech leader) is smooth and effective.

In this episode, you’ll gain actionable tips for empowering teams, setting clear goals, and fostering a collaborative culture. You’ll also learn to discover delegation techniques, boundary setting, and prioritization for enhanced productivity. Don't overlook the importance of regular one-on-one sessions, seeking mentorship, investing in learning resources, and embracing feedback for continuous growth.

Prevent burnout with sustainable leadership approaches. Dive into effective ways to overcome burnout in engineering and tech. Whether you're a new manager or an experienced leader, this guide provides essential insights for successful leadership in the engineering and tech landscape.

Doug Howard 12/15/23 Doug Howard 12/15/23

How to Find the Perfect Job Candidate - Follow This Simple Interviewer Strategy for Hiring Managers

Are you a hiring manager who is struggling to find good candidates that can actually do the job well?

In this episode, you’ll learn how to elevate your hiring game and find your next star performer efficiently with these expert interviewer strategies that show you how to tailor your interview and identify which candidate will be the perfect fit on your team.

Learn why conventional interviewing tactics often miss the mark - and lead to hiring bad candidates that don’t work out - as we explore a five-point strategy (that goes beyond resumes) to assess crucial hard skills, soft skills, and personality traits.

You’ll learn exactly what to do during the interview - techniques for initiating a relaxed conversation that eases tension and promote openness for the candidate; asking interview questions that provoke authentic responses and help you uncover genuine insights into a candidate's true nature; and post-interview assessment strategies that distinguish between critical requirements and bonus characteristics.

Say goodbye to cookie-cutter interviews and welcome tailored approaches that guarantee the right match.

Doug Howard 12/8/23 Doug Howard 12/8/23

Mastering Presentation Skills for Engineers and Tech Professionals | Tips from Communication Expert

Are you an engineer or tech professional struggling to create compelling presentations that captivate your audience?

Join us for an insightful interview with Christopher Chin - a Presentation Coach, Course Instructor, and Keynote Speaker who teaches engineers, tech professionals, and introverted leaders how to communicate and present with executive confidence.

In this second part of the interview, we delve deep into the art of creating impactful slide presentations. Discover why engineers often struggle with presentation skills and learn two essential strategies to enhance your ability to inspire action through your presentations. Christopher also shares valuable insights on simplifying complex data, choosing the right visuals, and creating clear, concise messages that resonate with your audience.

Don't miss this opportunity to transform your presentation skills and make a lasting impact in your professional life!

Doug Howard 12/1/23 Doug Howard 12/1/23

How Introverted Leaders can Become More Confident with Communication and Presentations

Discover the secrets to confident and effective communication for engineering managers and tech leaders in this engaging interview with Christopher Chin - a Presentation Coach, Course Instructor, and Keynote Speaker who teaches engineers, tech professionals, and introverted leaders how to communicate and present with executive confidence

You’ll learn how introverted leaders can harness the power of authenticity to make a significant impact, how to overcome the biggest communication challenges, and why empathy is the cornerstone of successful communication.

You’ll also gain powerful (and practical) tips for enhancing your communication and presentation style, understanding your audience, and finding your authentic voice. Unlock the skills you need to thrive in the tech industry and master the art of persuasive communication. Don't miss this valuable insight into becoming a more influential and impactful engineering leader and tech professional.

Doug Howard 11/24/23 Doug Howard 11/24/23

Mastering Leadership Adaptability - The Key to Climbing the Career Ladder

In this episode, we delve into the crucial world of leadership adaptability and how it can significantly impact your journey up the career ladder. Join us for an insightful conversation with Susan Bond, a former COO turned leadership coach and founder of Constellary, as she shares her wealth of experience and knowledge in helping leaders navigate the complexities of human and organizational systems.

Discover why adaptability is the linchpin of leadership success, and how it goes beyond just being flexible in your approach. We explore the nuances of complex versus complicated problems, and why understanding the right problem is essential for effective leadership. Susan also highlights the importance of building strong relationships with diverse teams and why empathy is at the core of it.

Are you ready to unlock the power of adaptability and rise through the ranks of leadership?

Doug Howard 11/17/23 Doug Howard 11/17/23

Bridging the Gap with Gen Z | 9 Keys to Effective Leadership

Struggling to connect with the younger generation in your team?

It can be a challenging task, especially given the huge perspective gap between Gen Z and every preceding generation - which is why the key to effectively leading and motivating Gen Z is all about understanding their unique perspective, finding common ground, and adapting your leadership style accordingly.

In this episode, we explore the common struggles managers face with Gen Z, emphasizing the importance of understanding and bridging the generation gap - along with 9 specific ways for you to find common ground for leading, motivating, and influencing the younger generations.

Doug Howard 11/10/23 Doug Howard 11/10/23

10 Books Every Leader Must Read

Whether you’re an individual contributor, emerging leader, middle manager, or established executive - if you’re ready to enhance your leadership skills and take your career to the next level, you need to read these carefully selected transformative books - because each of them touches a specific area that will unlock your leadership potential.

Doug Howard 11/3/23 Doug Howard 11/3/23

How to Influence Upward, Downward, and Cross-Functionally at Work

In this episode, you’ll learn the AEC Framework - a powerful strategy to influence anyone—upward, downward, or cross-functionally in your organization. You’ll also learn how to make others feel genuinely appreciated, demonstrate empathy, and convert them to align with your goals effortlessly.

This episode also provides a step-by-step roadmap for building trust and rapport, ensuring your message resonates with your colleagues, managers, and teams. Discover the art of starting small to gain momentum, and watch as your influence soars.

If you're ready to increase your impact, advance your career, and become a master influencer, this episode is a must-watch. Don't miss out on these proven techniques that will transform your ability to lead and succeed in any professional setting.

join me on my youtube channel!