"Make sure your intent and the impact are aligned, right? Because even if it's not necessarily a positive situation, if you do your job well, then it should be articulated objectively and with the right tone and outcome.”

In this episode of Executive Evolution, Craig Anderson chats with Caroline Abeleda, Co-Founder of Exploradoor. Caroline discusses why treating your team with dignity is essential, even in difficult situations like layoffs. She explains how embracing vulnerability helped her address the challenges of transitioning from peer to leader and how this openness fostered trust within her team. Caroline also talks about the realities of leading a company that’s always in growth mode, and where time management and resource allocation play a crucial role. 

After You Listen:

• Get your copy of Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek
• Connect with Caroline on LinkedIn
• Check out Exploradoor
• Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
• Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations

Key Takeaways:

• Show your team honesty in one-on-one conversations to build trust and strengthen relationships.
• Ensure your leadership actions match your business goals to achieve desired outcomes
• Handle tough decisions with compassion, preserving the dignity of your team members

Things to listen for:

(00:00) The lightning round

(07:22) Defining leadership beyond the title

(10:38) Becoming a leader among your peers

(15:07) Challenges of leading a company that’s always in growth mode

(19:13) The Importance of self-awareness in leadership