Listen, Connect, Retain

Blue-Collar BS

What does it take to create a work culture where people actually want to stay? Today, we're diving into what makes or breaks a “stay culture” in the workplace.

Fall is well under way , and while hunting season might give some employees a reason to step away, it brings up an important question: how do you create a culture that keeps people engaged and committed? This episode digs into the idea of "stay culture"—what makes people want to stick around instead of heading for the door.

We explore how leaders can connect with their teams by listening—really listening. It's not just about nodding and waiting to talk; it’s about showing genuine interest in what’s being said, even if it’s not something you personally care about. Tactical empathy plays a big role here. It's not about carrying everyone’s baggage but understanding their perspective enough to make them feel heard. This strategy alone can turn a revolving door workplace into a loyal and productive team.

We also tackle the tough reality of employee suggestions that might not be feasible to implement. How do you acknowledge someone’s input without creating false expectations? The answer lies in setting clear follow-ups and ensuring the team feels valued—even if the idea doesn’t make it into practice. And speaking of value, leaders need to take responsibility when things go wrong, while giving credit to the team for every success. This is what it means to be a true leader.

From actionable leadership advice to relatable anecdotes, this episode is packed with insights on creating a workplace that people want to be a part of—not just a place where they collect a paycheck.

Highlights:

• The importance of listening to employees without dismissing their ideas.
• Understanding tactical empathy and how it differs from emotional empathy.
• Why leaders need to own failures and give teams credit for success.
• Strategies to make employees feel heard, even when their ideas aren’t feasible.
• Practical ways to build connections with your team and reduce turnover.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review. Share this episode with your colleagues or anyone who might benefit from improving workplace culture!

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Steve Doyle:

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Brad Herda:

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