November 2024 Newsletter

Welcome to this month's edition of the Keep the Line Moving (KTLM) newsletter!

Here, we explore the most pressing issues in today's workplace and provide insights to help you navigate these challenges with resilience and effectiveness.

This Month’s Focus

The Kindergarten Rules

In Episode 102 of the Keep the Line Moving podcast, award-winning Los Angeles sports television producer and Syracuse adjunct professor Jeff Proctor shared four timeless principles he instills in both his children and students:

Show up on time.
Be nice to people.
Do what you are asked to do.
Be a good person.

These "Kindergarten Rules" are simple yet profound. Jeff explained that while these lessons are often taught to us as children, their significance remains relevant at every stage of life. Each rule is completely within our control which is crucial in a world where so much feels unpredictable and chaotic.

The erosion of basic human decency—kindness and integrity—has contributed to many modern challenges (see rules #2 and #4). Jeff’s advice reminds us that by focusing on what we can control, we can better navigate what we can’t. We can all agree that these principles, when practiced consistently, can drive success in any environment.

Leadership Observation

Communication + Understanding = Trust

This core theme regularly emerges in our leadership workshops. Your message might be perfectly crafted, but if no one is listening or understanding, how can you lead effectively?

We see this as the NFL season heats up, and teams begin to separate into two groups: those preparing for the playoffs and those planning for next season. Communication is the foundation especially this time of year. From sideline calls, to huddle commands, audibles, and snap counts are more than words; they are executed from a foundation of trust.

Winning teams excel at communication. They ensure that players and coaches not only hear the message but truly understand it. This understanding fosters trust. On the other hand, struggling teams often suffer from poor communication accountability. Leadership isn’t about what you say—it’s about how your message is received.

How often have you left a meeting feeling crystal clear, only to watch a project derail due to misunderstandings? Great leadership requires more than talent or giving a directive; it ensures the message resonates and empowers action. The smartest person in the room is powerless if no one is listening. Building trust through communication takes time, self-awareness, and humility. Trust, like leadership, isn’t built overnight—it’s forged in preparation, consistency, and meaningful connections. In the NFL, trust happens during the off-season, in meeting rooms, and on the practice field and if it’s missing it usually shows this time of year.

What We Are Working On

A recurring theme in our workshops is authentic workplace connections. Recently, it also surfaced during my Leadership in Collaborative Innovation course at Montclair State University, a student shared an insightful perspective:

“My boss asks me how my weekend was and how I’m doing, but he really doesn’t care what I have to say. He’s just making small talk, probably to pass the time and make the day feel less boring.”

This sparked a powerful discussion about the difference between genuine care and fake care. While superficial pleasantries are common, they rarely build meaningful trust or connection. Authentic interest in the people on your team, on the other hand, fosters stronger teams, deeper trust, and a more fulfilling work environment. Don’t we work harder for people we care about? This makes good business sense.

Meaningful work is often less about the tasks and more about the people we do them with. As the class concluded, one lingering question challenged us all:

Are your relationships at work genuine friendships, or are they just convenient connections?

Final Thoughts

This month, let’s reflect on the basics—the Kindergarten Rules, the power of authentic communication, and the importance of building real workplace connections. Leadership isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistently showing up, caring, and ensuring others feel heard.

Thank you for being part of the KTLM community! Keep the line moving, and let’s lead with purpose.

Stay curious and keep leading with passion!

Warm regards,

The KTLM Team

Unlock Your Leadership Potential

If you're facing challenges in your leadership journey or seeking guidance on fostering a more resilient and effective work culture, we invite you to schedule a free consultation with our team. Together, let's unlock your leadership potential and navigate the complexities of today's workplace with confidence.

Join us in creating a workplace where everyone can thrive. Contact us today to learn more.

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Lastly, please send us your podcast guest recommendations. If you know a leader, an emerging leader or someone who can inspire us, please email [email protected].

I want to thank all of you for following The Gargano Leadership Group!

Chris Gargano

Founder of The Gargano Leadership Group