In episode 23, we chat with Margaret Heffernan about the critical human skills that we need to confront the unexpected in today’s world.

Margaret explains why attempts to predict the future, even in today's world of AI and Big Data technologies, are often doomed to failure. She offers alternative strategies for people and organisations facing an uncertain future — strategies based on human creativity and resilience.

Dr Margaret Heffernan is an entrepreneur, Chief Executive, broadcaster, and author. She writes, speaks and blogs about business leadership, management, innovation and creativity, and her TED talks have been seen by over 14 million people. Margaret has written six books and her third book, ‘Wilful Blindness, Why We Ignore The Obvious’ was named one of the most important business books of the decade by the Financial Times. Her most recent book ‘Uncharted: How To Map The Future’ was published in 2020 and was nominated for the Financial Times Best Business Book award.

We discuss:

• How Margaret’s dads job influenced her thinking early in life, especially that there were good companies and bad companies and good bosses and bad bosses
• The more we rely on technology to make us efficient, the fewer skills we have to confront the unexpected
• Human skills such as humility, imagination, and optimism are adaptable and flexible skills that feed people
• Ways to prevent potentially devastating “willful blindness” in your organisation
• The biggest misconception around middle managers
• Her love for the TV show “Succession” and the lessons for Boards.

This episode is packed full of wisdom and amazing insights, you will walk away feeling inspired and energised.

And in let's take this offline, Annette Sloan and I break down the three biggest takeaways.

Get in touch: Cathal@betteratwork.com.au or https://betteratwork.com.au

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About Guest

Dr. Margaret Heffernan is an entrepreneur, author, academic and Lead Faculty for the Forward Institute’s, where she mentors CEOs and senior executives of major global organisations. Her book, Uncharted: How to Map the Future explores how understanding and being prepared for uncertainty, both as individuals and leaders of organisations, helps navigate modern life. 

Website: https://www.mheffernan.com/