In this conversation, Lars and Paulina discuss their experiences from a recent hackathon, emphasizing the importance of company culture and the role of middle management in shaping it. They explore the challenges of navigating culture change, the significance of emotional intelligence in leadership, and the influences that have shaped their views on culture. The discussion also touches on emerging trends in leadership and the responsibility that comes with influencing others in the workplace.

Culture Code Foundation https://www.culturecodefoundation.com/

Paulina on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ccf-paulina-von-mirbach-benz/

Paulina on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sceptical_paulina/

Lars on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsnielsenorg/

Lars on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/larsnielsen_cph/

Takeaways

🔥 The hackathon experience was both exhausting and rewarding.

🔥 Middle management plays a crucial role in shaping company culture.

🔥 Effective culture change requires equipping managers with the right tools.

🔥 Emotional intelligence is a skill that can be developed.

🔥 Feedback should be a regular part of team interactions.

🔥 Copying others' approaches to culture change often leads to failure.

🔥 Leaders need to be trained to manage effectively, not just promoted based on performance.

🔥 Creating clarity within teams is essential during uncertain times.

🔥 Every individual has the power to influence culture, regardless of their position.

🔥 The trend of young people shying away from leadership roles is concerning.

Chapters

00:00 Post-Hackathon Reflections

09:56 The Power of Middle Management in Company Culture

25:29 Coaching and Feedback Dynamics

28:12 Creating Micro-Clarity in Uncertain Times

30:10 Navigating Psychological Contracts

32:09 Trends in Leadership and Culture

36:28 Influences on Company Culture

42:12 Communication as a Cultural Foundation

43:47 Empowering Managers to Shape Culture

48:27 Cultural Behaviors for Team Success