If you want to be a leader

Did you also love the only wintery week we really had this winter? I took too many photos with my phone of me and my dog walking in the snow last week. Did I mention my dog really likes snow? Did I tell you that my dog can be very persistent? That’s why we walk a loooot in the snow, my dog and I. 

Leadership ➡️ obsess over these areas !

Also last week, something clicked for me again after a minor meltdown about a lack of communication and non outspoken expectations of an extern party. (which costed me tons of energy and too much non-necessary stress)

IDK, but it seems to me so logical. If you want to work well together, being super clear about your expectations is A MUST. From my perspective, too many people seem to think that others can read their minds. But hey, you're you, with your own story and ways of seeing things. When you see a dog in the snow, what you see (and feel) is probably not the same as what I do.

I'm continually astounded by our acceptance of artists' unique interpretations of something as simple as an apple or the musical notes do-re-mi. Yet, in contrast, when we engage in general conversation or manage a team, we often fall into the trap of assuming everyone thinks in the same way. Why?!

But instead of whining about it, I took my frustrations and tried to turn them into something positive: I made this list of important questions that you can use if you lead a team, freelancers or partners.

Here we go:

Are your team members/partners clear on what you expect?

• Do they get the goal? (Did you plant a flag?!)

• Does everyone's job help reach that goal?

• Is their progress visible and shared with everyone?

Is your team set up to succeed?

• Do you have the right people for your goal?

• Are you helping them reach their full potential?

• Is the team vibe boosting everyone's energy?

Does your way of doing things help your team succeed?

• Are you cutting down on unnecessary rules? (!!)

• Do your team members have the tools they need?

• Are you always looking to get better?

💥 Here's the tough truth: You can't be too clear. It is just impossible. If the result isn’t what you expect, please, always ask yourself first what you could have done to make it better. Leading is a journey, not a finish line.

BrandLove ➡️ For candles and ‘more’

Yes, babies, we are on fire. That’s why this next ad is perfect to share with you guys! Because this week, while I was stopping by the paper shop to buy bread, my eye caught an advertisement. It really made me smile because it featured Martha Stewart for the candles, and Snoop Dogg for 'the more'. You get it 😅?

Kudos to BIC for being so bold in their advertising strategy! Many advertisers wouldn't dare to go this far. I love it! It definitely grabbed my attention, so mission accomplished. :-)

Leadership ➡️ Look, I’m a mentor!

Recently, I mentored at a feedback session for the A.Club+ at LikeBirds in Ghent. I met its founder, Vicky, last year at a trip to Web Summit. It's amazing what she has achieved with her business!

The A.Club+ is a program to help entrepreneurs achieve strategic goals or important projects. It's super cool! Why? Because it really connects people!

Lately, I have spoken to many many people (CEOs, entrepreneurs, etc.) who feel professionally lonely. It's not easy always reaching those goals. But with whom do you share your worries with? Who do you call if you want to celebrate your successes? I can only encourage such initiatives and communities as A.Club+!

(And secretly, I'm feeling inspired to do something about this professional loneliness, to help and guide leaders. I'll see if this inspiration grows. We'll see!)

Communication ➡️ We Don't Control Reactions

Apparently, this is the newsletter where I really turn my obstacles from this week into common life lessons. (I think it is the month January, Januarys are hard) What I want to share with you is this: We Don't Control Reactions, Only Actions

I found myself reflecting on this after a disagreement with my husband. He believed that because his intentions were good, my reaction should align with that. Huh?! This is not how communication works! 🤣

In advertising or communication in general, we often hope our message will resonate in a certain way. But here's the truth: We can't dictate how others feel or react. Our control extends only to our actions and our own intentions.

When crafting a marketing campaign, it's crucial to remember that your audience's reaction is not guaranteed. The most effective ads are those that empathize with the audience, seeing the world from their perspective.

So remember, in communication and business, it's not just what you say or do, but how it's perceived that counts!!

Some examples?

Don’t sell a skincare routine, sell healthy skin.
Don't sell a mattress, sell a good night's sleep.
Don’t sell the process, sell the outcome.

➡️ Some meme fun!

I get the feeling I was too serious this week. (Damn you January!) So, here's some meme fun to lighten the mood here. Dis you see the many many Beckham-memes passing by? Way to funny!!

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Next week, I'm taking a short (long weekend) escape from Belgium with my family. Need some headspace. Need some rest 😴 So, I might see you next week, or otherwise the week after, full of new inspiration! Bye! 👋