#02. Today I'm learning from Joel Lindstrom. Joel is a senior director at Hitachi Solutions America, where he oversees the Power Platform, Low-Code and Automation team. Before joining the Microsoft channel as a solution architect with Customer Effective, Joel sold office equipment. Customer Effective was acquired by Hitachi Solutions seven years later, and Joel has been building his career there for over a decade. Joel has a long history with the Microsoft MVP program and he also played a pivotal role in giving Neil a break in podcasting back in 2017.

KEY LESSONS

1. Defining Leadership Goals: Joel emphasizes the importance of understanding why you want to be a leader. It's not just about the impressive title or the increased salary; it's about embracing the additional responsibilities and making a positive impact on your team.
2. Managing Yourself First: Before taking on a leadership role, Joel advises assessing your personal habits and time management skills. Can you manage your own mindset and health effectively? These are crucial skills for managing a team.
3. Empowering Your Team: One of Joel's greatest joys in leadership is seeing his team members succeed. He believes in the power of nurturing talent and celebrating the achievements of others, even if it means they surpass him in rank.
4. Monday Morning Updates: Joel shares a practice of sending out Monday morning messages to his team, acknowledging successes and setting priorities for the week. It's a simple yet effective way to maintain team cohesion and focus.
5. Continuous Learning: While Joel values keeping technical certifications current, he acknowledges that every leader can show commitment to continuous learning in their own way. It's about setting a strong example for your team.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Joel on managing a project vs. a team

00:46 Introduction to Practice Leading and guest Joel Lindstrom

01:46 Joel Lindstrom's career journey

03:22 Finding your 'why' in leadership

06:57 Challenges in transitioning to leadership

07:21 The joys of leadership

10:07 Recognizing team achievements

14:03 Managing yourself before managing others

18:13 Handling an unpredictable schedule as a leader

22:50 Strategies for balancing meetings and deep work

26:41 The importance of self-management

28:23 The role of certifications for leaders

RESOURCES

• Joel Lindstrom on LinkedIn
• Hitachi Solutions America on LinkedIn
• Punish By Rewards by Alfie Kohn
• Deep Work by Cal Newport
• Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport

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