How Great Leaders Build Trust and Engagement with Hannah MacDonald-Dannecker

Join Hannah and me as we discuss the importance of building systematic approaches to her leadership style. Hannah MacDonald-Dannecker is the managing partner of Better Together Group. One of my favorite parts of this interview was her system for coaching people. I’m going to use this in my business. Highlights from the interview: 1. Importance of Empathy and Curiosity in Leadership Hannah shares a story about driving 4 hours to fill in for a staffing role, demonstrating her commitment to the team and the business. She emphasizes the importance of leaders being fully engaged and showing up for their team, no matter the personal cost. This sets the tone for the discussion on Hannah's leadership approach. 2. Systematic Approach to One-on-One Meetings Hannah describes her weekly 15-30 minute one-on-one meetings with each of her 15 direct reports. The structured format includes: 1) Asking how they are doing, 2) Understanding their current priorities and what's not getting done, 3) Discussing how they plan to address gaps, and 4) Offering to take anything off their plate. This consistent process builds trust and uncovers important insights about her team. 3. Overcoming Judgment and Assumptions Hannah shares a personal story about being demoted from a leadership role early in her career due to being perceived as judgmental. This experience taught her the importance of leading with curiosity, listening to understand, and avoiding assumptions. She emphasizes the need for leaders to create a safe space for open feedback and vulnerability. 4. Mentors and Lessons Learned  Hannah reflects on two key mentors who have shaped her leadership approach - her 8th grade teacher who modeled grace and inclusion, and her father who challenged her with high expectations but unwavering support. These stories highlight the value of learning from others and being willing to step outside one's comfort zone. Learn more about Hannah MacDonald-Dannecker over at Better Together Group. You can also connect with her on Linkedin.  As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks! You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems. Related podcasts and articles: Scaling Success with Vulnerability with Justin Moore How Leaders Can Build Efficient Teams