In manufacturing, we often emphasize complex processes and new technologies, like artificial intelligence. But to bring true change and productivity to your organization, don’t forget about your people!

In this episode, learn all about the balance of technical skills and human connection with guest Emily Nichols! As a professional engineer with decades of experiences in manufacturing and innovation, Emily has worked with organizations like PepsiCo, Janssen, and Henkel. She now works with organizations who want to strengthen the human skills they need to thrive in an increasingly technical world. In this episode, she shares more about the important role of human skills, and offers lessons and insights for forming stronger connections, breaking down systemic barriers, and how to improve your “people score.”

2:01 – Even in fields like manufacturing, human skills play a very important role

5:43 – Current and emerging trends, like AI, make human connection even more important in retention and recruitment

8:29 – To form connections, increase your presence on the shop floor

12:36 – Visual uniformity can foster better connections and help you break down perceived barriers

19:39 – If you want more connections, you need to listen to and respect the expertise of everyone on your team

20:37 – To support women in your organization, you need to address systemic issues

23:39 – Even small changes, like using more inclusive language, can have a big impact on your culture

25:06 – We are people first, not machines

Connect with Emily Nichols

Visit her website

Connect on social media: @connectbettertoday

In the busy field of manufacturing, how do you make yourself stand out? Find out in this episode of Mindfulness Manufacturing with Mark Levy. Mark is a “differentiation expert,” who helps his clients find bold, innovative ways to showcase their big ideas and differentiate themselves from the competition. Mark has worked with dozens of corporations, brands, and thought leaders, including Simon Sinek, Amazon, Harvard Business School, and Major League Baseball, as well as leaders from government bodies like the United Nations. He was also a recent speaker for Tedx Talk, where he spoke about using the obvious to stand out in business and in life.

In this episode, Mark talks more about the importance of finding your “big sexy idea” and shares compelling stories from his own consulting experience to show how leaders can differentiate themselves and communicate their organization’s values, mission, and other unique aspects in an engaging and memorable way.

2:18 – To inspire your organization, articulate your values and missions in clear, engaging, and memorable ways

3:44 – When making a claim or sharing information, back it up with stories and facts to make it memorable and relatable

10:22 – To help your team learn your organization’s key values, keep a sheet with facts and stories that highlight your organization’s strengths, mission, values, and other key facts

12:17 – In manufacturing, we often overlook successes in favor of focusing on problem-solving

26:11 – As a leader, communicate in a way that ensures your team members feel valued and integral to your organization’s success

27:00 – Consider staring your meetings by sharing proud moments and highlighting recent successes

Connect with Mark Levy

Watch Mark’s Tedx Talk

Visit his website

In manufacturing, it’s easy to get stuck in the four walls of our organization. But when you look beyond your organization—and even beyond your industry—you can find the insights and lessons you need to transform your leadership, improve your culture, and show up for your team! In this episode, hear from outside the manufacturing industry with Dr. Renee Thompson!

Renee is the CEO & Founder of the Healthy Workforce Institute and works with healthcare organizations to cultivate a professional workforce by addressing bullying and incivility. Renee has authored several books and is one of only 30 nurses worldwide who have achieved the prestigious certified speaking professional designation. Through her work, Renee is on a mission to create a world where bullying and incivility are immediately rejected, and kindness, respect, and professionalism become the new norm. In this episode, she shares her strategic insights for cultivating a more inclusive and positive workplace.

4:14 – In the workplace, bullying and negative relationships can occur between coworkers, as well as between bosses and employees

5:34 – As a leader, it’s important to equip yourself with the skills needed to address bullying and incivility

7:57 – There are many psychological barriers that can lead to challenges or inaction when faced with problematic workplace behavior

9:30 – Scripting is a way to effectively handle difficult conversations

12:27 – Learn the difference between overt bullying and subtle, more convert bullying, and find the strategies for dealing with both types of behavior

16:40 – Even though all industries are different, strategies for addressing bullying and incivility can still be applied across different industries

Connect with Dr. Renee Thompson

Learn more about Healthy Workforce Institute

Find her on LinkedIn

Connect on Facebook and Instagram