Client Interview: From Individual Contributor to Leader - Building Confidence, Boundaries, and Joy with Xiaosu
In episode 70, I’m sitting down with Xiaosu, one of my inspiring former clients, to talk about her leadership journey and what it really takes to transition from individual contributor to people manager—and eventually director.
Xiaosu shares her story of pivoting from a biochemistry major to a nonprofit leader, her love for managing people, and her commitment to bringing joy to her work and team. Together, we dive into the strategies she used to:
- Build confidence as a first-time manager
- Set boundaries for herself and model them for her team
- Navigate direct conversations and manage up effectively
- Lead with purpose and create a joyful workplace
Chapters
00:00 Intro to Xiaosu and Her Career Journey
06:00 Transitioning from Individual Contributor to People Manager
12:00 The Power of Setting Boundaries and Leading by Example
18:00 Why Joy Is at the Center of Leadership
24:00 Trusting Your Team and Asking the Right Questions
28:00 The Role of Coaching in Building Confidence
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