- Improving Career and Soft Skills During COVID-19: Insights from Chevron’s CHRO
- How Chevron is Leading the Way Forward in Career development and Soft Skills
- The Importance of Human Energy
- Creative Problem Solvers Wanted!
- Personal Growth with BrainApps
- Inspiring Leadership with Vulnerability
- Offering Unexpected Roses
- Leading People to Thrive in the Workplace
Improving Career and Soft Skills During COVID-19: Insights from Chevron’s CHRO
The COVID-19 pandemic has not only transformed the way we live but also reshaped the landscape of our professional environments. For Rhonda Morris, Chevron’s Chief Human Resources Officer, the crisis brought with it a wave of personal and professional challenges that tested her resolve. Managing the well-being and safety of over 45,000 employees spread across the globe weighed heavily on her, especially with the added concern for her elderly mother and her teenage daughter. In such turbulent times, it became clear to Rhonda that her workforce needed more than just operational guidance; they needed support and a sense of connection.
In her quest to foster psychological safety within the organization, Rhonda chose to share her own vulnerabilities. By openly discussing the anxieties, conflicts, and caregiving responsibilities that plagued her during the pandemic, she created a ripple effect of empathy among employees. This transparency not only built trust but also encouraged others within the organization to express their own challenges and fears. One employee might have shared their struggle with remote schooling for their children, while another could have discussed the isolation of working from home. Rhonda’s willingness to be vulnerable ignited a much-needed dialogue, demonstrating that human interaction and empathetic Leadership are vital opportunities for connection during times of crisis.
Recognizing the critical need for collective understanding, Rhonda collaborated with other leaders at Chevron to actively engage with employees. They posed questions to uncover what was most concerning for their teams, establishing a real-time feedback loop that allowed for immediate responses to pressing issues. This initiative highlighted the importance of leadership being attuned to employees’ concerns, creating an atmosphere where everyone felt heard and valued. It became evident that managers at all levels played a pivotal role in guiding teams through the unpredictable landscape of COVID-19.
In order to equip managers with the necessary tools to thrive in this new reality, Chevron partnered with BRAINAPPS, an innovative company focused on delivering structured support. They rolled out specialized training for 7,000 supervisors worldwide, focusing on essential skills such as feedback mechanisms and resilience. Through online courses and Coaching Circles™, managers were not only encouraged to reflect on their experiences but also to practice new behaviors in a supportive environment. These coaching sessions allowed managers to strengthen their skills, learn from one another, and foster a sense of community that spanned the globe. For example, one session might have revolved around navigating difficult conversations with team members, while another could focus on maintaining team morale remotely.
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In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has ushered in a host of unprecedented challenges for organizations across the world. However, the response from leaders like Rhonda Morris at Chevron illustrates how providing support, empathy, and open lines of communication can enhance the career and soft skills of employees. In these trying times, organizations that prioritize psychological safety and connection not only nurture resilience and adaptability but also pave the way for innovation and growth in a post-pandemic world.
How Chevron is Leading the Way Forward in Career development and Soft Skills
The Importance of Human Energy
Chevron transcends the conventional role of an energy company; it invigorates with the essence of human energy. At Chevron, the belief is firm that success is intrinsically tied to the quality, commitment, and ingenuity of its workforce. The company’s ethos revolves around not just extracting energy sources from the earth but also nurturing the potential within its people. To achieve this, Chevron invests heavily in the personal and professional development of its employees, ensuring they are equipped to excel and innovate continually.
Creative Problem Solvers Wanted!
In an era marked by constant change and unforeseen challenges, Chevron actively seeks individuals who can navigate these complexities with creativity and resilience. The company recognizes the need for thinkers who can tackle today’s societal challenges with innovative solutions. As part of its commitment to fostering such talent, Chevron offers a myriad of opportunities designed to hone the skills of its workforce—whether through specialized training programs, cross-functional projects, or global assignments, the firm ensures that employees are continually challenging their limits and expanding their capabilities.
Personal Growth with BrainApps
One of the cornerstones of Chevron’s development strategy is its partnership with BrainApps, a leading developer of self-growth tools. BrainApps offers personalized applications geared towards enhancing both personal and professional development in a structured manner. Leveraging their extensive expertise, BrainApps provides resources that enable employees to cultivate essential soft skills, such as emotional intelligence, leadership, and effective communication—skills that are not only crucial for individual career advancement but also for fostering a cohesive, productive workplace.
Inspiring Leadership with Vulnerability
The leadership story of Rhonda at Chevron is a testament to the power of leading with vulnerability. Rhonda’s journey resonates deeply within the Chevron community, illustrating that true leadership involves embracing one’s own vulnerabilities and imperfections. By doing so, she has paved the way for a culture where employees feel empowered to bring their authentic selves to the workplace. This approach not only enhances individual growth but also builds a more connected and supportive work environment.
Offering Unexpected Roses
Rhonda challenges us all with a poignant question: What unexpected roses can you offer your teams and peers? This metaphorical query prompts leaders to think beyond traditional recognition and to offer genuine, thoughtful gestures that acknowledge and value their colleagues’ contributions. By fostering a culture of appreciation and empathy, Chevron ensures that every team member feels seen and valued, thereby promoting an environment ripe for personal development and career progression.
Leading People to Thrive in the Workplace
For deeper insights into leading with vulnerability and encouraging personal growth, watch a riveting discussion featuring Adam Grant and BrainApps CEO Alexi Robichaux alongside Rhonda. This engaging video delves into innovative strategies for cultivating a thriving workplace through empathetic leadership and the development of soft skills. Their conversation provides valuable perspectives on how creating an environment that values personal and professional growth contributes to both individual and organizational success.
