I say take a page out of the “NCIS” script.

I have never seen an episode of this tv show, but I did watch an interview of one of the show’s stars, Rocky Carol. Rocky was on The View (I challenge you to withhold judgement in this moment) and he was talking about the program’s success and how much of it is due to the choices that the writers make.

Rocky said that the reason that they have such a loyal following of viewers is because the writers display the character’s humanity and vulnerability by including scenes that shine a light on their relationships with each other, their personal struggles, and unique senses of humour. Rocky went on to explain that he believes that these scenes which expose all sides of the character, enhance the viewers’ empathy for them when the #$!@ hits the fan and they are in some serious danger. The stakes go way up because they care about them as people.

Are you inspiring peeps that you work with like a writer of NCIS?

I want you to consider the powers of bringing humanity and vulnerability to your role on the team.

I sense you might be cringing when I say the word, “vulnerability”. In case you think I’m suggesting that you turn your team meetings into group therapy sessions, let me clear this one up. In the dictionary, “vulnerability” means to “let one’s guard down”, but somewhere along the way it started to be synonymous with weakness or a major flaw in one’s character – not so at all.

Again, in light of what Rocky said about NCIS viewers giving a bigger damn about the characters because they got frequent glimpses into the characters as real human beings with unique personalities and senses of humour, I want you to consider using this same strategy on your team.

If you want to foster more support and empathy between you and your team mates, create space and time to share your humanity and vulnerability with them. If you want to feel like your team mates “have your back” (Sandra Bullock would be cheering right now if she read my blog), let them get to know you as a human being and bring your personality and spirit to work.

Many teams don’t produce genuine teamwork because they simply don’t accept their humanity. Make this culture shift together and watch the dynamics and level of support improve. Why? Because we’re human and we humans are much more inspired to help and rescue each other when we know each other on a personal level.

Raise the stakes, baby.

Take a page out of the NCIS script. When it comes to increasing support on your team, embrace that you are indeed a bunch of humans which means that you are all imperfect, emotional and one of a kind.

Let your guard down and watch your ratings on the team RISE.

Big Love,

susan