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Empowerment Over "Face-Time" - How To Showcase Your People Naturally

Episode Description:
In this episode of Northbound, Chris dives into the misguided workplace concept of "FaceTime"—the idea that employees need to spend artificial time with higher-ups to get noticed. Chris shares personal experiences from his career where forced visibility felt awkward, transactional, and unproductive. Instead, he highlights how effective leadership empowers employees, creates natural opportunities to showcase abilities, and focuses on results rather than optics. Through stories and lessons, Chris shows leaders how to support their people while avoiding the pitfalls of superficial "FaceTime."

Talking Points:

• The myth of "FaceTime" – Why leaders often emphasize it and what it really means.

• The problem with forced visibility – How artificial "FaceTime" can feel awkward, transactional, or unproductive.

• Showcasing abilities naturally – Encouraging leaders to create opportunities for employees to demonstrate skill and value through meaningful work, projects, or outcomes.

• Trust over optics – Why leadership should focus on results and competence rather than constant physical presence or attention-seeking.

• Empowerment vs. permission – How giving autonomy and real responsibility allows people to shine without "FaceTime."

• Personal anecdotes / examples – Sharing moments where natural exposure worked better than forced face-to-face meetings.

• Actionable advice for leaders:

  • Delegate high-impact projects.

  • Recognize contributions in front of peers or leadership naturally.

  • Encourage proactive reporting rather than micromanagement.

Key Takeaways:

• Effective leadership is about creating meaningful visibility, not forcing "FaceTime."

• Employees shine best when given autonomy and real responsibility.

• Communication up the chain should focus on results and measurable impact.

• Recognition should feel organic, highlighting genuine contributions.

• Leaders who avoid superficial practices build trust, engagement, and a stronger team.