DO YOUR PEOPLE FEEL SAFE?

TED Talks are 20 minute long videos. They are about 'ideas worth sharing'. The format ensures that a very important point is made in a relatively short period. They are a great way to expand your thinking and challenge your leadership.

• YOU SIMPLY MUST MAKE 20 MINUTES TO WATCH THIS

Simon Sinek is an author and leadership guru. This TED Talk is called 'Why good leaders make you feel safe'. I'll share a couple of the key points he makes in the talk, but it won't compare to watching it.

• Leaders create 'circles of safety' in their organisations. They make their people feel cared for and that they belong. In return, they show a deep sense of trust and cooperation.

• He says great leaders act like good parents. We all want to give our kids an education, opportunity, discipline when appropriate, but fundamentally a chance to achieve. Great leaders do these things for their employees.

• He shares several compelling stories that illustrate that when leaders put the interests of their people first, they respond with outstanding trust and cooperation.

Thinking about your leadership, do your people feel safe? Do they feel like they belong? Would you like them to feel a deeper sense of trust in you, their leader, and in each other? Would you like them to cooperate more?

Putting them first and thinking about your 'heart count' more than 'head count' is the key (you'll have to watch the TED Talk to fully understand).