Hey Friends,

Amid so many layoffs, there is still momentum in people quitting their job to be unemployed intentionally. This is such a powerful statement that they would rather live with more meager means than show up at work one more day rings across nearly all industries.

We also see those leaving for more money or elevated work that their employer presumably can't or won't offer.

Some research

CNBC cited research saying 4.2 million workers quit their jobs in June. Many quit with no job offer, choosing unemployment over working for their current organization.

Forbes cited research finding that during the second year of the pandemic, the average worker who changed jobs saw a pay increase of 9.7%, while those who stayed at the same job lost 1.7%, accounting for inflation.

These data points add considerable complication as we try to understand how to reduce attrition and increase engagement.

Most people leaders have very little influence over making significant changes in pay outside of annual or merit increases. Even then, the bell curve tends to outweigh any opinion a leader has of appropriate wages.

The journey of proving leadership is about striving for what is exceptional. Comparing our work to that which is better, learning from those who have mastered skills before us, and expecting more from ourselves regardless of the acceptable minimum standard.

Let's get to work

Quick, actionable reads

3 Ways to Grow Your Team Without Weaponizing Promotions

If you haven't done this to someone, it has certainly been done to you. A promotion is hanging over your head if you work a little harder to fill in the blank.

Be honest. You have little control over who gets the job unless you are the hiring manager. If you represent otherwise, you are likely lying to them, yourself, or both.

When helping someone on a development path, stick to these three guideposts to create a better experience:

Leading an Intergenerational Workforce in 2022

Intergenerational workforces are not a problem. They are an opportunity.

Intergenerational workforces are not new. Although recent research validates that the workforce is diverse and identifies the dominant age groups, the leadership principles we need to apply will sound familiar.

5 Actions to Support an Intergenerational Culture

More articles and videos to go further

Bullet Point Book Review: 12 Rules for Life by Jordan Peterson Canadian writer and psychologist Jordan Peterson is the equivalent of a gut-check for leaders who want to stay balanced in their worldview. You will not likely agree with everything here, but you will go on a journey of understanding why you agree, why you don't, and your rules. Read it here.

5 Apps that Give You Time Back ‌‌Busy leaders (is there another kind?), this is for you! I know – another app review – but this isn't about apps. This is about the rare resource of your time. You can not be a proven leader if you don't have the time to learn and invest! Read more here.

3 Happiness Killers and What To Do About ThemHappiness, satisfaction, and engagement in the workplace are all at an all-time low, according to – well – everyone.

Read more here.

The Secrets to Happiness at Work | Zack Friedman | TEDxRochester

Want to truly succeed? Lift others up while you climb | Amber Hikes

Leadership has transcended the title and position and is now evidence-based. Those who trust us enough to call us their leader only do so when we respect and value them through what we do, not just what we say.

Through this writing, I propose a new standard of leadership worthy of a workforce that demands more: a proven leader. Go subscribe on our page and let’s get better together!