Leading from within: Benji Coetzee on authenticity, energy, and overcoming self-doubt

Benji Coetzee is the Chief Strategy Officer at KPN, a Dutch communications company. With a background in psychology and a passion for understanding human behavior, Benji brings a unique perspective to her role. She has led numerous digital transformation projects and is known for her ability to inspire and motivate teams. Benji is also the author of the book "Daddy Says No," which explores the psychology behind decision-making and offers practical advice for personal and professional growth. With her expertise in change management and commitment to creating a positive and inclusive work environment, Benji is a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the industry.

In this episode, I enjoyed speaking with Benji Coetzee, the Chief Strategy Officer at KPN. Benji is a dynamic leader with a passion for driving transformation and growth. With her extensive experience in change management and deep understanding of human behavior, Benji shares valuable insights on navigating the challenges of leading a transformation project. Her book, "Daddy Says No," delves into the psychology behind decision-making and offers practical advice for personal and professional growth. Join us as we explore the importance of understanding people, embracing change, and creating a culture of trust and collaboration.

"If you want to really grow, you really need to be open to change." ~ Benji Coetzee

This week on Innovation Talks:

• Building trust and autonomy: Benji emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for the success or failure of a project, giving people autonomy, and being willing to take the heat if something goes wrong.
  
  
• The power of in-person interactions: Benji highlights the value of being physically present with teams, as it allows for better communication, understanding, and collaboration compared to virtual interactions.
  
  
• Starting with why: Benji stresses the significance of clearly communicating the purpose and rationale behind a change or transformation project to get everyone aligned and motivated.
  
  
• Understanding people's emotions: Benji suggests taking the time to understand the fears, ambitions, and emotions of the team members involved in the project. This understanding can help in crafting a compelling story and keeping the team motivated.
  
  
• Self-reflection and vulnerability: Benji encourages leaders to reflect on their own insecurities and behaviors, acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes and has room for growth. Being vulnerable and open about one's own humanity can create a more approachable and authentic leadership style.
  
  
• Change as a catalyst for growth: Benji believes that change is necessary for growth, and that significant growth often comes from embracing uncomfortable changes and challenging oneself to adapt and improve.
  
  
• The importance of understanding biases and triggers: Benji discusses the significance of recognizing decision-making biases and emotional triggers that can influence behavior. By understanding these biases, individuals can make better decisions and achieve greater satisfaction.
  
  
• Taking the time to understand the team: Benji advises leaders to invest time in understanding the people they work with, their ambitions, fears, and motivations. This understanding can help in building a strong team and creating a supportive and collaborative environment.

 Connect with Benji Coetzee:

• "Daddy Says No" by Benji Coetzee
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

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