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Get Reworked


Jul 5, 2022

The word friction typically carries negative connotations, seen as an abrasive or discordant force. Yet the right kind of friction can also inspire feelings of belonging, engagement and meaning.

In this episode of Get Reworked, we talk to Soon Yu, author and international speaker, about how introducing good friction in your workplace can inspire employees to do more, give them a greater sense of purpose and inspire them to experiment.

Listen: Get Reworked Full Episode List

"Good friction in the work environment is actually asking more of your employees. And part of what you're asking more of them is to co-create the culture, to have ownership and the ability to influence what happens," said Soon. "And it's not just a top-down situation where the senior leader has a vision and states the values and everybody just follows that, you're actually asking for this idea of feedback, loop engagement and collaboration at all different levels."

Highlights of the conversation include:

  • The difference between good and bad friction.
  • Why asking employees for more effort can build a sense of ownership.
  • Why employees should identify if their workplaces support autonomy, mastery and purpose. 
  • How hybrid workforces can introduce good friction.
  • Why thriving brands introduce good friction to promote loyalty, belonging and more.

Plus, co-hosts Siobhan Fagan and Mike Prokopeak talk with Soon about boxed cake mixes, the seven virtues of good friction, and why Soon thinks working retail is harder than any white-collar job. Listen in for more.

Have a suggestion, comment or topic for a future episode? Drop us a line at editors@simplermedia.com.