Adapting Leadership Development for a Rapidly Changing Workplace with Kristi Owens of Southwest Airlines
Kristi Owens, Vice President of Talent and Leadership Development at Southwest Airlines, joins us in this episode. Kristi shares how Southwest is developing an internal talent marketplace by identifying skills the company will need in the future and offering upskilling programs to its employees. Kristi emphasizes the evolving role of leadership and the skills leaders must develop to support and guide their teams through challenges and change.
Key Takeaways:
(01:38) Kristi’s journey from technology to talent and leadership development at Southwest.
(04:27) The shift to virtual training has enabled Southwest to reach over 100 locations more efficiently.
(05:00) Today’s workforce is increasingly motivated by growth and development opportunities rather than financial incentives alone.
(06:38) Investing in an internal talent marketplace by developing skills the company will need in the future.
(07:32) AI in content development could streamline training production, enabling faster responses to learner needs.
(10:02) Leaders must be resilient and agile to guide their teams through challenges and changes.
(10:52) Mental well-being is crucial, with leaders encouraged to create psychological safety for their teams.
(13:37) Leadership motivations: responsibility versus reward.
Resources Mentioned:
“The Motive” by Patrick Lencioni
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