Lee explores into the often over looked aspects of training sessions, emphasising the importance of aligning language and definitions to ensure effective learning. He challenges listeners to think differently about their approach to training, whether as participants or facilitators and highlights the necessity of creating actionable plans that integrate learning into everyday practices. Lee shares practical strategies for fostering accountability, such as assigning ownership of action items and encouraging personal commitments from participants. By focusing on these elements, he aims to help organisations maximise their investment in training and achieve meaningful, lasting change.

KEY TAKEAWAYS


Think and Do Different: To achieve different results, it's essential to not only think differently but also to take actionable steps based on that new thinking. Training should inspire participants to implement what they've learned.


Alignment of Language: Ensuring that all participants have a shared understanding of key terms and concepts is crucial. Misalignment in definitions can lead to confusion and ineffective application of knowledge.


Action Plans for Application: Capturing tangible actions during training sessions helps cement learning. Each action should have a designated owner and a timeline for accountability, ensuring that the knowledge gained is applied in the workplace.


Integration into Existing Routines: Actions derived from training should be integrated into regular meeting rhythms to maintain focus and accountability. This prevents the need for separate discussions about training outcomes and promotes ongoing application.


Personal Commitment: Encouraging participants to make personal commitments to change fosters accountability. Sharing these commitments with the group increases investment in the learning process and encourages follow-through after the training session.

BEST MOMENTS

"You have to think and do different to achieve different." 

"When you get back from holiday, the first day back it then seems like it's been months since you've had a holiday." 

"Alignment of language is key, especially in a training room." 

"We want applied learning. We want people to take the knowledge that they're getting in the training room and apply that learning in the workplace." 

"If you don’t do that, then you’re going to have to have another meeting to just talk about the output of that meeting." 

HOST BIO

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Lee explores into the often over looked aspects of training sessions, emphasising the importance of aligning language and definitions to ensure effective learning. He challenges listeners to think differently about their approach to training, whether as participants or facilitators and highlights the necessity of creating actionable plans that integrate learning into everyday practices. Lee shares practical strategies for fostering accountability, such as assigning ownership of action items and encouraging personal commitments from participants. By focusing on these elements, he aims to help organisations maximise their investment in training and achieve meaningful, lasting change.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ol>
<li>
Think and Do Different: To achieve different results, it's essential to not only think differently but also to take actionable steps based on that new thinking. Training should inspire participants to implement what they've learned.
</li>
<li>
Alignment of Language: Ensuring that all participants have a shared understanding of key terms and concepts is crucial. Misalignment in definitions can lead to confusion and ineffective application of knowledge.
</li>
<li>
Action Plans for Application: Capturing tangible actions during training sessions helps cement learning. Each action should have a designated owner and a timeline for accountability, ensuring that the knowledge gained is applied in the workplace.
</li>
<li>
Integration into Existing Routines: Actions derived from training should be integrated into regular meeting rhythms to maintain focus and accountability. This prevents the need for separate discussions about training outcomes and promotes ongoing application.
</li>
<li>
Personal Commitment: Encouraging participants to make personal commitments to change fosters accountability. Sharing these commitments with the group increases investment in the learning process and encourages follow-through after the training session.
</li>
</ol>
BEST MOMENTS
"You have to think and do different to achieve different." 
"When you get back from holiday, the first day back it then seems like it's been months since you've had a holiday." 
"Alignment of language is key, especially in a training room." 
"We want applied learning. We want people to take the knowledge that they're getting in the training room and apply that learning in the workplace." 
"If you don’t do that, then you’re going to have to have another meeting to just talk about the output of that meeting." 
HOST BIO
You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/
For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack &amp; India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business &amp; personal development material.
Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

How to Help People Take Action After a Training Course

Lee talks through the critical role of questioning in successful change management. Drawing from his extensive experience since 2006, Lee emphasises that while tools and methodologies are essential, the true key to effective change lies in understanding and asking the right questions. He argues that change practitioners should prioritise developing their questioning skills and the principles behind those questions rather than solely focusing on tools. By engaging the minds, hearts, and hands of individuals, change practitioners can facilitate meaningful transitions and foster a culture of ownership and engagement. Tune in to explore how shifting the focus from tools to thinking can lead to more sustainable and successful change initiatives.

KEY TAKEAWAYS


Prioritise Questions Over Tools: Successful change management should focus on asking the right questions and understanding the principles behind those questions, rather than solely relying on tools and frameworks.


Engagement is Crucial: The ability to engage with people is critical for successful change. Change practitioners must work to understand and connect with individuals to facilitate a positive transition.


Understanding Change Dynamics: Change is fundamentally about transitioning people from one state to another. This requires a deep understanding of the thinking, habits, and behaviours of those involved in the change process.


Create a Safe Environment for Thinking: It’s essential to foster an environment where individuals feel safe to express their thoughts and engage in meaningful discussions about change.


Focus on Meaningful Outcomes: Change practitioners should aim to create clarity around goals and desired outcomes, ensuring that these goals resonate with the people involved, making them feel real and meaningful.

BEST MOMENTS

"Our ability to work with people, our ability to engage with people is critical in the success of landing change." 

"It's not about tools, it's not about people, it's about thinking and our ability to ask the right question." 

"If you want to create new thinking, new habits, new behaviours, you need to create more thinking by asking better questions." 

"Don't ask what tools do we need to teach our change practitioners. Ask what questions need to be created in our change practitioners." 

"Success is changing the thinking of our people, engaging the heads, engaging the hearts, engaging the hands in a meaningful way."

HOST BIO

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Lee talks through the critical role of questioning in successful change management. Drawing from his extensive experience since 2006, Lee emphasises that while tools and methodologies are essential, the true key to effective change lies in understanding and asking the right questions. He argues that change practitioners should prioritise developing their questioning skills and the principles behind those questions rather than solely focusing on tools. By engaging the minds, hearts, and hands of individuals, change practitioners can facilitate meaningful transitions and foster a culture of ownership and engagement. Tune in to explore how shifting the focus from tools to thinking can lead to more sustainable and successful change initiatives.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ol>
<li>
Prioritise Questions Over Tools: Successful change management should focus on asking the right questions and understanding the principles behind those questions, rather than solely relying on tools and frameworks.
</li>
<li>
Engagement is Crucial: The ability to engage with people is critical for successful change. Change practitioners must work to understand and connect with individuals to facilitate a positive transition.
</li>
<li>
Understanding Change Dynamics: Change is fundamentally about transitioning people from one state to another. This requires a deep understanding of the thinking, habits, and behaviours of those involved in the change process.
</li>
<li>
Create a Safe Environment for Thinking: It’s essential to foster an environment where individuals feel safe to express their thoughts and engage in meaningful discussions about change.
</li>
<li>
Focus on Meaningful Outcomes: Change practitioners should aim to create clarity around goals and desired outcomes, ensuring that these goals resonate with the people involved, making them feel real and meaningful.
</li>
</ol>
BEST MOMENTS
"Our ability to work with people, our ability to engage with people is critical in the success of landing change." 
"It's not about tools, it's not about people, it's about thinking and our ability to ask the right question." 
"If you want to create new thinking, new habits, new behaviours, you need to create more thinking by asking better questions." 
"Don't ask what tools do we need to teach our change practitioners. Ask what questions need to be created in our change practitioners." 
"Success is changing the thinking of our people, engaging the heads, engaging the hearts, engaging the hands in a meaningful way."
HOST BIO
You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/
For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack &amp; India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business &amp; personal development material.
Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Chicken or Egg, Tools or People, what is the best way

Lee talks about the importance of asking the right questions as a leader and the impact it has on coaching and developing people. He emphasises that effective leadership is not just about managing tasks or providing answers, but about fostering thought and reflection in others. Horton discusses the need to balance managing, leading, and coaching, highlighting that change should be an everyday part of business rather than a one-off project. He advocates for a humann centered approach to improvement, where continuous growth and respect for individuals are paramount. By connecting on a personal level and engaging teams in meaningful conversations, leaders can inspire a highly engaged workforce dedicated to making incremental improvements every day.

KEY TAKEAWAYS


Coaching Through Questions: Asking questions is a powerful tool for coaching, but the true success lies in generating thought and reflection in the individuals being asked, rather than simply obtaining answers.


Situational Leadership: Effective leadership requires a balance of managing tasks, leading people, and coaching gaps. The approach should be tailored to the specific situation and the needs of the individuals involved.


Continuous Improvement: Change should be integrated into daily operations rather than treated as a one-off project. Engaging employees in continuous improvement fosters a culture where everyone contributes to enhancing processes and outcomes.


Respect for People: Emphasising respect for individuals and their contributions is crucial. A highly engaged organisation thrives on mutual respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improvement.


Holistic Engagement: To achieve organisational success, it is essential to engage employees' heads (through thought-provoking questions), hearts (by inspiring them towards a common goal), and hands (by involving them in meaningful work).

BEST MOMENTS

"The success of asking a question is not in receiving an answer, but in generating thoughts in the people that we've asked the question of."

"Change needs to be, or should be, an everyday business as usual part of every single role because those who do the work know most about it."

"If we truly embraced those two principles, joined them together and made them business as usual for everybody, then everybody will be working to do the right thing at the right time every single time."

"It's about improving that task at hand as well in a collaborative way."

"Change and leadership is not black and white because not every person is the same."

HOST BIO

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Lee talks about the importance of asking the right questions as a leader and the impact it has on coaching and developing people. He emphasises that effective leadership is not just about managing tasks or providing answers, but about fostering thought and reflection in others. Horton discusses the need to balance managing, leading, and coaching, highlighting that change should be an everyday part of business rather than a one-off project. He advocates for a humann centered approach to improvement, where continuous growth and respect for individuals are paramount. By connecting on a personal level and engaging teams in meaningful conversations, leaders can inspire a highly engaged workforce dedicated to making incremental improvements every day.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ol>
<li>
Coaching Through Questions: Asking questions is a powerful tool for coaching, but the true success lies in generating thought and reflection in the individuals being asked, rather than simply obtaining answers.
</li>
<li>
Situational Leadership: Effective leadership requires a balance of managing tasks, leading people, and coaching gaps. The approach should be tailored to the specific situation and the needs of the individuals involved.
</li>
<li>
Continuous Improvement: Change should be integrated into daily operations rather than treated as a one-off project. Engaging employees in continuous improvement fosters a culture where everyone contributes to enhancing processes and outcomes.
</li>
<li>
Respect for People: Emphasising respect for individuals and their contributions is crucial. A highly engaged organisation thrives on mutual respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improvement.
</li>
<li>
Holistic Engagement: To achieve organisational success, it is essential to engage employees' heads (through thought-provoking questions), hearts (by inspiring them towards a common goal), and hands (by involving them in meaningful work).
</li>
</ol>
BEST MOMENTS
"The success of asking a question is not in receiving an answer, but in generating thoughts in the people that we've asked the question of."
"Change needs to be, or should be, an everyday business as usual part of every single role because those who do the work know most about it."
"If we truly embraced those two principles, joined them together and made them business as usual for everybody, then everybody will be working to do the right thing at the right time every single time."
"It's about improving that task at hand as well in a collaborative way."
"Change and leadership is not black and white because not every person is the same."
HOST BIO
You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/
For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack &amp; India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business &amp; personal development material.
Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Questions, Right Thing Every Time and Leadership

Lee explores the critical concept of empowering the right person to do the right thing at the right time, every single time. He emphasises the importance of clarity in roles and responsibilities within an organisation, highlighting that not everyone is the right person for every task. Lee discusses how leaders can create an enabling environment through clear expectations, open communication, and trust, allowing individuals to act confidently based on their awareness and experiences. By fostering a culture where responsibility is shared and acted upon with urgency, leaders can ensure their teams thrive. Tune in to discover practical approaches to enhance operational excellence and empower your team effectively.

KEY TAKEAWAYS


Empowerment of the Right Person: It's crucial for leaders to identify and empower the right individuals within their teams to take responsibility and act at the right time, rather than assuming that everyone should handle every situation.


Clarity in Roles and Responsibilities: Clear communication of roles and responsibilities is essential to prevent confusion and ensure that team members know when they are the right person to act.


Setting Clear Expectations: Leaders must establish clear standards and expectations for what constitutes the "right thing" to do in various situations, aligning these with the organization's goals and values.


Creating an Enabling Environment: An environment that fosters trust, open communication, and support is vital for empowering team members to act confidently and appropriately when they are the right person.


Understanding Timing: Knowing when to act is as important as knowing what to do. Leaders should cultivate a sense of urgency and awareness of timing within their teams to ensure actions are taken at the appropriate moments.

BEST MOMENTS

"A successful environment is one where the right individual steps up at the right time, without confusion over roles and responsibilities." 

"The right thing really should align with expectations and standards." 

"Leaders must provide clear expectations of what the right thing looks like for various roles and situations." 

"When the right person does the right thing at the right time, it's a reflection of the environment that the leader has cultivated." 

"You want the choice to be crystal clear and you want them to act appropriately at the right time." 

HOST BIO

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Lee explores the critical concept of empowering the right person to do the right thing at the right time, every single time. He emphasises the importance of clarity in roles and responsibilities within an organisation, highlighting that not everyone is the right person for every task. Lee discusses how leaders can create an enabling environment through clear expectations, open communication, and trust, allowing individuals to act confidently based on their awareness and experiences. By fostering a culture where responsibility is shared and acted upon with urgency, leaders can ensure their teams thrive. Tune in to discover practical approaches to enhance operational excellence and empower your team effectively.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ol>
<li>
Empowerment of the Right Person: It's crucial for leaders to identify and empower the right individuals within their teams to take responsibility and act at the right time, rather than assuming that everyone should handle every situation.
</li>
<li>
Clarity in Roles and Responsibilities: Clear communication of roles and responsibilities is essential to prevent confusion and ensure that team members know when they are the right person to act.
</li>
<li>
Setting Clear Expectations: Leaders must establish clear standards and expectations for what constitutes the "right thing" to do in various situations, aligning these with the organization's goals and values.
</li>
<li>
Creating an Enabling Environment: An environment that fosters trust, open communication, and support is vital for empowering team members to act confidently and appropriately when they are the right person.
</li>
<li>
Understanding Timing: Knowing when to act is as important as knowing what to do. Leaders should cultivate a sense of urgency and awareness of timing within their teams to ensure actions are taken at the appropriate moments.
</li>
</ol>
BEST MOMENTS
"A successful environment is one where the right individual steps up at the right time, without confusion over roles and responsibilities." 
"The right thing really should align with expectations and standards." 
"Leaders must provide clear expectations of what the right thing looks like for various roles and situations." 
"When the right person does the right thing at the right time, it's a reflection of the environment that the leader has cultivated." 
"You want the choice to be crystal clear and you want them to act appropriately at the right time." 
HOST BIO
You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/
For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack &amp; India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business &amp; personal development material.
Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

World Class Basics - Helping the RIGHT person do the RIGHT thing at the RIGHT time EVERY time

Lee talks about the significance of language in the context of business improvement. He explores the use of Japanese terminology, often adopted from Toyota's principles, and the debates surrounding the choice between using familiar English words or introducing new terms. Lee emphasises that words are merely labels and that the real challenge lies in the thoughts and actions they inspire in others. He presents three approaches to introducing new concepts: challenging existing definitions, using foreign words to bypass biases, or creating entirely new terms. Ultimately, Lee underscores the importance of aligning language with the desired actions to ensure that everyone is doing the right thing at the right time, every time.

KEY TAKEAWAYS


Language as Labels: Words are merely labels for concepts or objects, and the meanings we attach to them can vary significantly among individuals. Understanding this can help in effective communication and change management.


Three Approaches to Language in Improvement: When introducing new concepts, one can either challenge existing definitions, use foreign terms to avoid biases, or create entirely new words. Each approach has its own implications for understanding and acceptance.


Importance of Thought Creation: The primary goal of using language is to create specific thoughts in others that lead to desired actions. It's essential to focus on the thoughts generated by the words used rather than the words themselves.


Emotional Connection: Words and actions should aim to evoke feelings, as emotions play a crucial role in influencing behaviour. As Maya Angelou famously said, people may forget what you said or did, but they will remember how you made them feel.


Alignment of Thinking and Action: To achieve effective outcomes, it is vital to align the thinking of individuals with the desired actions. Misalignment can lead to confusion and hinder progress, making it crucial to ensure clarity in communication.

BEST MOMENTS

"Words are just labels that we give that thing... and we may use the same word to articulate a completely different point." 

"It comes down to the thinking and the thoughts that are created with the words that we use." 

"The name of something is just a label. It's the thinking that you're creating in the people that you are wanting to do something that is important." 

"It's a thinking challenge, not a new dictionary challenge. We want to create the right thoughts in the people to do the right thing." 

"People will forget what you said, forget what you did, but never forget how you made them feel."

HOST BIO

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Lee talks about the significance of language in the context of business improvement. He explores the use of Japanese terminology, often adopted from Toyota's principles, and the debates surrounding the choice between using familiar English words or introducing new terms. Lee emphasises that words are merely labels and that the real challenge lies in the thoughts and actions they inspire in others. He presents three approaches to introducing new concepts: challenging existing definitions, using foreign words to bypass biases, or creating entirely new terms. Ultimately, Lee underscores the importance of aligning language with the desired actions to ensure that everyone is doing the right thing at the right time, every time.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ol>
<li>
Language as Labels: Words are merely labels for concepts or objects, and the meanings we attach to them can vary significantly among individuals. Understanding this can help in effective communication and change management.
</li>
<li>
Three Approaches to Language in Improvement: When introducing new concepts, one can either challenge existing definitions, use foreign terms to avoid biases, or create entirely new words. Each approach has its own implications for understanding and acceptance.
</li>
<li>
Importance of Thought Creation: The primary goal of using language is to create specific thoughts in others that lead to desired actions. It's essential to focus on the thoughts generated by the words used rather than the words themselves.
</li>
<li>
Emotional Connection: Words and actions should aim to evoke feelings, as emotions play a crucial role in influencing behaviour. As Maya Angelou famously said, people may forget what you said or did, but they will remember how you made them feel.
</li>
<li>
Alignment of Thinking and Action: To achieve effective outcomes, it is vital to align the thinking of individuals with the desired actions. Misalignment can lead to confusion and hinder progress, making it crucial to ensure clarity in communication.
</li>
</ol>
BEST MOMENTS
"Words are just labels that we give that thing... and we may use the same word to articulate a completely different point." 
"It comes down to the thinking and the thoughts that are created with the words that we use." 
"The name of something is just a label. It's the thinking that you're creating in the people that you are wanting to do something that is important." 
"It's a thinking challenge, not a new dictionary challenge. We want to create the right thoughts in the people to do the right thing." 
"People will forget what you said, forget what you did, but never forget how you made them feel."
HOST BIO
You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/
For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack &amp; India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business &amp; personal development material.
Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Should You Use Japanese Words or Not

Lee explores the intricacies of leading effective daily conversations within organisations. Building on previous discussions about tiered meeting structures, Lee outlines 12 essential skills that leaders need to master to engage their teams and maximise contributions. He emphasises the importance of creating a safe environment for open communication, interpreting information clearly, and transitioning from information-sharing to actionable steps. By addressing common pitfalls and offering practical approaches, Lee encourages leaders to reflect on their capabilities and seek support in facilitating impactful daily meetings. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS


Importance of Daily Conversations: Regular meetings, whether called stand-ups, huddles, or performance cells, are crucial for engaging teams, aligning information, and ensuring everyone is on track to meet organisational goals.


Leader Preparedness: Leaders must be equipped to facilitate effective daily conversations. This includes skills in public speaking, engaging team members, and creating a safe environment for open communication.


Structured Approach: A successful daily meeting should follow a structured approach, including setting the tone, interpreting information clearly, asking open-ended questions, and ensuring clarity on next steps and accountability.


Encouraging Participation: Leaders should foster an environment where team members feel safe to share their thoughts and feelings without judgment, promoting a culture of collaboration and collective problem-solving.


Motivation and Clarity: At the end of each meeting, it’s essential to ensure that team members leave feeling motivated and clear about their roles and responsibilities for the day, which contributes to overall productivity and morale.

BEST MOMENTS

"Done right, these can be the most powerful opportunity to engage your people and enable them to maximise their contribution." 

"Just because they lead a team does not mean that they can lead an effective daily conversation."

"You want to create as many thoughts in your people. You want to get as many ideas and suggestions from your people as possible." 

"How comfortable are you as a leader getting a single owner for activities and actions and then pinning them down to a date?" 

"You want people to feel motivated, positive and ready to go and make a positive contribution today." 

HOST BIO

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Lee explores the intricacies of leading effective daily conversations within organisations. Building on previous discussions about tiered meeting structures, Lee outlines 12 essential skills that leaders need to master to engage their teams and maximise contributions. He emphasises the importance of creating a safe environment for open communication, interpreting information clearly, and transitioning from information-sharing to actionable steps. By addressing common pitfalls and offering practical approaches, Lee encourages leaders to reflect on their capabilities and seek support in facilitating impactful daily meetings. 
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ul>
<li>
Importance of Daily Conversations: Regular meetings, whether called stand-ups, huddles, or performance cells, are crucial for engaging teams, aligning information, and ensuring everyone is on track to meet organisational goals.
</li>
<li>
Leader Preparedness: Leaders must be equipped to facilitate effective daily conversations. This includes skills in public speaking, engaging team members, and creating a safe environment for open communication.
</li>
<li>
Structured Approach: A successful daily meeting should follow a structured approach, including setting the tone, interpreting information clearly, asking open-ended questions, and ensuring clarity on next steps and accountability.
</li>
<li>
Encouraging Participation: Leaders should foster an environment where team members feel safe to share their thoughts and feelings without judgment, promoting a culture of collaboration and collective problem-solving.
</li>
<li>
Motivation and Clarity: At the end of each meeting, it’s essential to ensure that team members leave feeling motivated and clear about their roles and responsibilities for the day, which contributes to overall productivity and morale.
</li>
</ul>
BEST MOMENTS
"Done right, these can be the most powerful opportunity to engage your people and enable them to maximise their contribution." 
"Just because they lead a team does not mean that they can lead an effective daily conversation."
"You want to create as many thoughts in your people. You want to get as many ideas and suggestions from your people as possible." 
"How comfortable are you as a leader getting a single owner for activities and actions and then pinning them down to a date?" 
"You want people to feel motivated, positive and ready to go and make a positive contribution today." 
HOST BIO
You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/
For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack &amp; India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business &amp; personal development material.
Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Exposing the Key Parts of Facilitating a Successful Daily Meeting

Lee talks about the crucial concept of connection within the framework of successful change initiatives. He reflects on his frequent use of the term "connection" and emphasises its importance as the first of the Four Cs: Connection, Conversation, Collaboration, and Celebration. Lee shares insights on how to foster genuine connections with team members, highlighting the significance of understanding individuals on a personal level, communicating transparently, and adapting communication styles to suit different audiences. He also discusses the value of creating an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and the importance of celebrating small wins to maintain morale. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS


Importance of Connection: Connection is the foundation of effective communication and change management. It is essential to prioritise building relationships before introducing tools or processes.


Person-Centric Approach: To foster connection, it's crucial to view team members as individuals with unique experiences, challenges, and motivations. Taking the time to understand them enhances trust and openness.


Transparent Communication: Open and honest communication is vital for building trust. Clearly explaining the reasons behind changes and how they benefit both the organisation and the team encourages engagement.


Adaptability in Communication: Tailoring communication styles to suit different audiences is important. Understanding how individuals prefer to receive information can significantly enhance connection and engagement.


Fostering Inclusion and Celebrating Wins: Creating an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and valued strengthens connection. Additionally, recognising and celebrating small wins keeps morale high and encourages ongoing engagement.

BEST MOMENTS

"Connection is the start of the Four Cs: Connection, Conversation, Collaboration, Celebration."

"Tools don't lead people. Tools can't influence. Tools can't inspire. People do these things." 

"Open and honest communication is the cornerstone of connection." 

"Finding common ground takes time, takes your ability to ask questions, but also having a genuine interest in that person." 

"Connection is far more than a word. Connection is a feeling between two people."

HOST BIO

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Lee talks about the crucial concept of connection within the framework of successful change initiatives. He reflects on his frequent use of the term "connection" and emphasises its importance as the first of the Four Cs: Connection, Conversation, Collaboration, and Celebration. Lee shares insights on how to foster genuine connections with team members, highlighting the significance of understanding individuals on a personal level, communicating transparently, and adapting communication styles to suit different audiences. He also discusses the value of creating an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and the importance of celebrating small wins to maintain morale. 
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ol>
<li>
Importance of Connection: Connection is the foundation of effective communication and change management. It is essential to prioritise building relationships before introducing tools or processes.
</li>
<li>
Person-Centric Approach: To foster connection, it's crucial to view team members as individuals with unique experiences, challenges, and motivations. Taking the time to understand them enhances trust and openness.
</li>
<li>
Transparent Communication: Open and honest communication is vital for building trust. Clearly explaining the reasons behind changes and how they benefit both the organisation and the team encourages engagement.
</li>
<li>
Adaptability in Communication: Tailoring communication styles to suit different audiences is important. Understanding how individuals prefer to receive information can significantly enhance connection and engagement.
</li>
<li>
Fostering Inclusion and Celebrating Wins: Creating an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and valued strengthens connection. Additionally, recognising and celebrating small wins keeps morale high and encourages ongoing engagement.
</li>
</ol>
BEST MOMENTS
"Connection is the start of the Four Cs: Connection, Conversation, Collaboration, Celebration."
"Tools don't lead people. Tools can't influence. Tools can't inspire. People do these things." 
"Open and honest communication is the cornerstone of connection." 
"Finding common ground takes time, takes your ability to ask questions, but also having a genuine interest in that person." 
"Connection is far more than a word. Connection is a feeling between two people."
HOST BIO
You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/
For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack &amp; India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business &amp; personal development material.
Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

How Do We Connect?

Lee engages in a great conversation with Tommy, a video testimonial expert originally from Leeds, now residing in Malta. Tommy shares his unique journey from a challenging upbringing to discovering the power of video testimonials in business. He emphasises the importance of creating a safe space for clients to express their feelings and experiences, which ultimately leads to authentic and impactful testimonials. Throughout the discussion, Tommy provides valuable insights on how to maximise the effectiveness of video testimonials, the significance of emotional connection in storytelling, and the art of asking the right questions. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS


Importance of Emotional Connection: Building a safe space for clients to share their feelings and experiences is crucial. This emotional connection leads to more authentic and impactful video testimonials.


Value of Real Results: Effective video testimonials focus on concrete outcomes rather than abstract benefits. Testimonials should highlight specific results, such as increased leads, reduced stress, or improved relationships.


Maximizing Testimonials: To get the most out of video testimonials, ensure they are easily accessible to clients and suppliers, incorporate them into webinars, and reuse the entire interview content for additional marketing materials.


Ongoing Relationships: Maintaining strong connections with clients is essential. Regular check-ins and accountability help ensure that clients utilise the services they’ve paid for, leading to better outcomes and referrals.


Storytelling Through Questions: Asking open-ended questions that encourage clients to share their stories and feelings can reveal deeper insights. This approach not only enhances the quality of testimonials but also fosters a more engaging and relatable narrative.

BEST MOMENTS

"What I noticed was that after a short amount of time, the way he wrote sounded like the way I talked. And I liked that. The light bulb went off."

"How do you make somebody feel safe? Because in every business, we want everybody to feel safe and that they can contribute their thoughts."

"A great testimonial talks about real results, not abstract ones that are kind of all feel good, but no substance."

"I realised that the trick to getting people to hang around longer with you was to get them to open up and feel like they were the ones who had the spotlight."

"It's all about connection and relationships... It's about how you deal with people."

HOST BIO

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Lee engages in a great conversation with Tommy, a video testimonial expert originally from Leeds, now residing in Malta. Tommy shares his unique journey from a challenging upbringing to discovering the power of video testimonials in business. He emphasises the importance of creating a safe space for clients to express their feelings and experiences, which ultimately leads to authentic and impactful testimonials. Throughout the discussion, Tommy provides valuable insights on how to maximise the effectiveness of video testimonials, the significance of emotional connection in storytelling, and the art of asking the right questions. 
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ol>
<li>
Importance of Emotional Connection: Building a safe space for clients to share their feelings and experiences is crucial. This emotional connection leads to more authentic and impactful video testimonials.
</li>
<li>
Value of Real Results: Effective video testimonials focus on concrete outcomes rather than abstract benefits. Testimonials should highlight specific results, such as increased leads, reduced stress, or improved relationships.
</li>
<li>
Maximizing Testimonials: To get the most out of video testimonials, ensure they are easily accessible to clients and suppliers, incorporate them into webinars, and reuse the entire interview content for additional marketing materials.
</li>
<li>
Ongoing Relationships: Maintaining strong connections with clients is essential. Regular check-ins and accountability help ensure that clients utilise the services they’ve paid for, leading to better outcomes and referrals.
</li>
<li>
Storytelling Through Questions: Asking open-ended questions that encourage clients to share their stories and feelings can reveal deeper insights. This approach not only enhances the quality of testimonials but also fosters a more engaging and relatable narrative.
</li>
</ol>
BEST MOMENTS
"What I noticed was that after a short amount of time, the way he wrote sounded like the way I talked. And I liked that. The light bulb went off."
"How do you make somebody feel safe? Because in every business, we want everybody to feel safe and that they can contribute their thoughts."
"A great testimonial talks about real results, not abstract ones that are kind of all feel good, but no substance."
"I realised that the trick to getting people to hang around longer with you was to get them to open up and feel like they were the ones who had the spotlight."
"It's all about connection and relationships... It's about how you deal with people."
HOST BIO
You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/
For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack &amp; India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business &amp; personal development material.
Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Safe spaces, the power of feelings and Video testimonials with Tommi Murshed-Parish

Lee engages in a compelling conversation with former professional goalkeeper Lee Robinson, who has transitioned into a modern-day goalkeeping coach and entrepreneur. They discuss Robinson's journey from a challenging football career to his mission of transforming goalkeeping training through innovative methods and specialized gloves. The episode delves into the importance of character, work ethic, and decision-making in goalkeeping, contrasting traditional views that prioritise physical attributes like height. Robinson shares insights on how he aims to empower young goalkeepers by encouraging them to embrace mistakes in training to enhance their performance in games. This episode not only highlights the parallels between sports and business leadership but also emphasizes the significance of mentorship and personal growth in achieving success.

KEY TAKEAWAYS


Character Over Size: The importance of a goalkeeper's character and decision-making skills outweighs physical attributes like height. A smaller goalkeeper with a strong character can be more effective than a taller one lacking in these qualities.


Learning from Mistakes: Making mistakes in training is essential for growth. The approach encourages goalkeepers to make errors during practice to avoid repeating them in games, fostering a mindset that values learning over perfection.


Innovative Training Methods: The use of specialised training gloves that challenge goalkeepers to improve their catching skills and decision-making under pressure. This method aims to make training more realistic and beneficial for performance in actual games.


Mental Health Awareness: Acknowledging the mental challenges faced by goalkeepers, including feelings of inadequacy and pressure. The discussion highlights the need for support and guidance to help young players navigate these challenges effectively.


Changing Goalkeeping Norms: Advocating for a shift in how goalkeeping is perceived and trained, moving away from traditional methods that focus solely on physicality and technique. The goal is to inspire a new generation of goalkeepers who are confident, skilled, and capable of making smart decisions on the field.

BEST MOMENTS

 "I want to give the benefit of all my underachievements and failures and hard times and help these young goalkeepers not have to deal with what I had to go through."

 "I think you should have to earn the right to call yourself a professional instead of just leaving school and a couple weeks later having a professional contract."

 "The best goalkeepers aren't the best technically; they're the best decision makers under pressure."

"What you did in those camps absolutely engages the heads of the goalkeepers, engages the hearts of them because they love it, and fundamentally engages the hands and the footwork."

 "You have to make more mistakes in training to make less in a game."

HOST BIO

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Lee engages in a compelling conversation with former professional goalkeeper Lee Robinson, who has transitioned into a modern-day goalkeeping coach and entrepreneur. They discuss Robinson's journey from a challenging football career to his mission of transforming goalkeeping training through innovative methods and specialized gloves. The episode delves into the importance of character, work ethic, and decision-making in goalkeeping, contrasting traditional views that prioritise physical attributes like height. Robinson shares insights on how he aims to empower young goalkeepers by encouraging them to embrace mistakes in training to enhance their performance in games. This episode not only highlights the parallels between sports and business leadership but also emphasizes the significance of mentorship and personal growth in achieving success.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ol>
<li>
Character Over Size: The importance of a goalkeeper's character and decision-making skills outweighs physical attributes like height. A smaller goalkeeper with a strong character can be more effective than a taller one lacking in these qualities.
</li>
<li>
Learning from Mistakes: Making mistakes in training is essential for growth. The approach encourages goalkeepers to make errors during practice to avoid repeating them in games, fostering a mindset that values learning over perfection.
</li>
<li>
Innovative Training Methods: The use of specialised training gloves that challenge goalkeepers to improve their catching skills and decision-making under pressure. This method aims to make training more realistic and beneficial for performance in actual games.
</li>
<li>
Mental Health Awareness: Acknowledging the mental challenges faced by goalkeepers, including feelings of inadequacy and pressure. The discussion highlights the need for support and guidance to help young players navigate these challenges effectively.
</li>
<li>
Changing Goalkeeping Norms: Advocating for a shift in how goalkeeping is perceived and trained, moving away from traditional methods that focus solely on physicality and technique. The goal is to inspire a new generation of goalkeepers who are confident, skilled, and capable of making smart decisions on the field.
</li>
</ol>
BEST MOMENTS
 "I want to give the benefit of all my underachievements and failures and hard times and help these young goalkeepers not have to deal with what I had to go through."
 "I think you should have to earn the right to call yourself a professional instead of just leaving school and a couple weeks later having a professional contract."
 "The best goalkeepers aren't the best technically; they're the best decision makers under pressure."
"What you did in those camps absolutely engages the heads of the goalkeepers, engages the hearts of them because they love it, and fundamentally engages the hands and the footwork."
 "You have to make more mistakes in training to make less in a game."
HOST BIO
You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/
For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack &amp; India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business &amp; personal development material.
Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Modern Day Goalkeepers - Lee Robinson shares his story from failure to future goalkeeping stars

In this episode of "Business Problems Solved," host Lee Horton explores the concept of PIP—People, Information, and Product—and explores how these three critical elements must flow harmoniously for an organisation to achieve operational excellence. Lee discusses the importance of engaging the head, heart, and hands of the organisation, highlighting key challenges such as misalignment between teams, burnout, and information overload. He offers practical strategies to foster effective people flow, streamline information flow, and optimise product flow, emphasising the need for connection, conversation, collaboration, and celebration within teams.

KEY TAKEAWAYS


Understanding PIP Flow: PIP stands for People, Information, and Product (or Process and Services). Achieving operational excellence requires these three elements to flow harmoniously within an organization.


Challenges to People Flow: Key challenges include misalignment between teams, burnout or low morale, and siloed collaboration. Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a motivated and engaged workforce.


Importance of Information Flow: Effective information flow is essential for informed decision-making. Challenges include horizontal and vertical communication breakdowns and information overload, which can hinder timely and accurate decisions.


Optimizing Product Flow: Product flow represents the processes and actions involved in delivering goods and services. Challenges include bottlenecks, balancing speed with quality, and inflexibility in processes. Streamlining these processes is vital for efficiency.


The Four C's Framework: To orchestrate harmony in PIP flow, organizations should focus on connecting people to the vision, fostering constant conversations, collaborating across functions, and celebrating successes while reflecting on areas for improvement.

BEST MOMENTS

"Does your pip flow or does your pit squeak? PIP stands for People, Information, and Product or Process and Services."

"Achieving operational excellence means orchestrating these three flows so that they work seamlessly together."

"The heart represents the emotion, the energy, the culture, the motivation of its people, driving engagement and collaboration." 

"If the energy and motivation are stifled, information flow suffers, which is the head." 

"Success is not zero problems. Success is a culture of openness and proactivity in dealing with them." 

HOST BIO

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

In this episode of "Business Problems Solved," host Lee Horton explores the concept of PIP—People, Information, and Product—and explores how these three critical elements must flow harmoniously for an organisation to achieve operational excellence. Lee discusses the importance of engaging the head, heart, and hands of the organisation, highlighting key challenges such as misalignment between teams, burnout, and information overload. He offers practical strategies to foster effective people flow, streamline information flow, and optimise product flow, emphasising the need for connection, conversation, collaboration, and celebration within teams.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ol>
<li>
Understanding PIP Flow: PIP stands for People, Information, and Product (or Process and Services). Achieving operational excellence requires these three elements to flow harmoniously within an organization.
</li>
<li>
Challenges to People Flow: Key challenges include misalignment between teams, burnout or low morale, and siloed collaboration. Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a motivated and engaged workforce.
</li>
<li>
Importance of Information Flow: Effective information flow is essential for informed decision-making. Challenges include horizontal and vertical communication breakdowns and information overload, which can hinder timely and accurate decisions.
</li>
<li>
Optimizing Product Flow: Product flow represents the processes and actions involved in delivering goods and services. Challenges include bottlenecks, balancing speed with quality, and inflexibility in processes. Streamlining these processes is vital for efficiency.
</li>
<li>
The Four C's Framework: To orchestrate harmony in PIP flow, organizations should focus on connecting people to the vision, fostering constant conversations, collaborating across functions, and celebrating successes while reflecting on areas for improvement.
</li>
</ol>
BEST MOMENTS
"Does your pip flow or does your pit squeak? PIP stands for People, Information, and Product or Process and Services."
"Achieving operational excellence means orchestrating these three flows so that they work seamlessly together."
"The heart represents the emotion, the energy, the culture, the motivation of its people, driving engagement and collaboration." 
"If the energy and motivation are stifled, information flow suffers, which is the head." 
"Success is not zero problems. Success is a culture of openness and proactivity in dealing with them." 
HOST BIO
You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/
For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack &amp; India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business &amp; personal development material.
Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

Does you PIP squeak or does your PIP flow

WARNING - This podcast WILL challenge your thinking.

Welcome to Business Problems Solved!

In this podcast we help you solve your business problems by providing real examples and practical approaches to make today better than yesterday. 

Introducing your host, the multi-sector, self-professed ‘most improved improvement person’ and qualified Business Problem Solver

Lee Houghton (pronounced Hawton)

You can contact Lee on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter by searching for Lee Houghton THE Business Problem Solver or via visiting www.leehoughton.com for more content and to solve your business problems.

And remember – saying you know how to do it, is not doing it …

Business Problems Solved

Social links:

Follow the podcast:

312 clip(s)