Andy Storch recently had a compelling conversation with Inga Staniune, the CHRO of Avia Solutions Group, who brings a unique psychotherapeutic mindset to HR. In this episode of the Talent Development Hot Seat Podcast, Inga shared insights into fostering self-awareness in leadership and how it can drive personal and organizational growth.

Here’s a guide on how you can incorporate these principles into your own talent development strategies:

Recognize the Role of Self-Awareness in Leadership

Self-awareness is foundational for effective leadership, personal branding, and career building. To replicate this in your company, encourage leaders to regularly engage in self-reflection and assessment activities. Tools like self-reflection exercises, meditation, reading, and journaling can be instrumental in fostering self-awareness.

Implement Self-Awareness Training Programs

Integrate self-awareness as a core component of your leadership development programs. Inga introduced self-awareness models such as Ginger's Pentagram, which has been effective in helping leaders identify their strengths and areas for improvement. This holistic approach integrates physical, spiritual, relational, and rational dimensions, promoting balanced personal and professional development.

Address Cultural Differences

Operating in a global environment brings the challenge of managing cultural differences. Inga's experience highlights the importance of incorporating cultural understanding into onboarding and training programs. Foster patience, openness, and continual learning about different cultures and political contexts among your HR teams for smoother cross-regional operations.

Develop a Leadership Academy

Inga successfully developed a Leadership Academy at Avia Solutions Group that focuses on continuous personal and professional growth. The program covers seven critical areas, including soft skills, finance, public speaking, and process efficiency. Create a similar comprehensive leadership training program tailored to the unique needs of your organization.

Balance Decentralized Structure with Common Leadership

Themes Avia Solutions Group operates with a decentralized structure across 17 business lines. Despite this complexity, leadership training remains a united focus. Ensure your company maintains core common topics like leadership training across all units to foster coherence and unity among leaders.

Provide Psychotherapy-Informed Training

With a background in psychotherapy, Inga bridges organizational dynamics with individual well-being. Incorporate elements of psychotherapy into your training programs to address psychological and emotional aspects of leadership. This can include training on boundaries, safety, personal beliefs, and emotional intelligence.

Encourage Open Dialogue About Emotions

Encouraging transparent discussions about emotions can effectively address feelings of loneliness among leadership teams. Create a culture where open communication about personal struggles is normalized and supported, helping to build a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

Utilize External and Internal Training Resources

Inga’s Leadership Academy successfully combines internal development with external expertise. Leveraging both internal and external training resources can provide a balanced perspective and enhance the overall learning experience for managers and employees.

Regular Self-Assessment

Encourage regular self-assessment among your leaders and employees. Repeat exercises like the pentagram quarterly or bi-annually to keep track of personal and professional growth. This continuous evaluation helps individuals stay aligned with their goals and organizational objectives.

Promote the Importance of Balance

Inga’s holistic approach highlights the importance of maintaining a balance across different life dimensions – physical, spiritual, relational, and rational. Promote programs and policies that encourage work-life balance and holistic well-being among your employees to foster a healthier and more productive workforce.

By following these steps drawn from Inga Staniune's insights, organizations can cultivate a culture of self-awareness, continuous learning, and inclusive leadership. To dive deeper into these topics, be sure to listen to the full episode on the Talent Development Hot Seat Podcast!