Alloy Solutions Leadership Blog

I own a 1976 Volkswagen Super Beetle Convertible, one of the limited-edition Triple White models. Whenever I drive it, people smile, wave, point, and occasionally stop me with questions when it’s parked.  Driving that car requires a different mindset – that of noticing and being open to the curiosity and joy expressed by others around me upon seeing it.   

Over time, I’ve learned something important: driving the Beetle isn’t just about enjoying the car. It’s about being present for the people who enjoy seeing it.  

That realization led me to several leadership lessons. 

1. Notice the People Who Notice You 

Leadership begins with awareness. It’s easy to become focused on where we’re going and miss the people around us. Great leaders pay attention to those who are paying attention to them.  As John C. Maxwell says, “Great leaders walk slowly through the crowd.”  Indeed.  But how often am I not only not walking slowly, but I’m not aware of the faces in the crowd.  Or that there’s even...

Now Hiring: Joyful Leaders, by Cindy Braun

Have you noticed how many "Now Hiring" signs are popping up these days? Across the country, businesses are looking for help and struggling to find it. America finds itself with a bevy of open positions and a shortage of labor to fill them. So, what's missing?

As I look back on my interactions with professionals over the last year and a half, I see more fear and less joy in the workplace. This certainly makes sense given the changes and uncertainty that the pandemic has brought. Looking ahead, I believe leaders who intentionally bring joy to the workplace can make a difference for their companies and their team members. I hope these thoughts will encourage you to take a risk and see what high joy can do for you.

Joy is a funny thing. It strengthens our relationships, reduces our stress, improves our immune system, protects our resiliency after setbacks, and spreads from person to person to transforms lives.

As leaders, we can focus on build...