How to Craft Career Pathways in a Tough Market | Insights for 2025 Grads | S2 E1

Executive Presence Decoded: What It Really Is & How to Build It (in the AI Era)

skool.com/leadwithoutblinders In this episode, Shujaat and Joselle explore the concept of executive presence, particularly in the context of the AI era. They discuss the importance of soft skills, communication, and the myths surrounding executive presence. The conversation emphasizes that executive presence is not just for senior leaders but can be developed by anyone. They provide a framework for understanding executive presence, which includes gravitas, appearance, and communication. The hosts also highlight the significance of empathy and business judgment in today's workplace, especially as AI becomes more prevalent. The episode concludes with practical tips for practicing executive presence and leveraging AI as a tool for improvement. Support our work and keep up with us online! Shujaat Ahmad's LinkedIn: / shujaatahmad Joselle Deocampo-Gautam's LinkedIn: / joselledeocampo-gautam Don't forget to subscribe to Here's The Deal monthly podcast for more insights on career growth and leadership, and our weekly AI and Future of Work mythbusting and tutorials for your career transformation with AI! / @belongandlead Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Executive Presence 01:53 Understanding Executive Presence in the AI Era 09:48 Myths Surrounding Executive Presence 14:39 Defining Executive Presence 15:06 The Three Pillars of Executive Presence 21:08 Why It Matters Even More In the AI Era 26:28 Example From A High Stakes Consulting Engagement 32:28 Practical Applications of Executive Presence 37:41 Recognizing Executive Presence 42:50 The Journey of Executive Presence 51:11 Communication as a Foundation 01:02:42 Leveraging AI for Executive Presence #executivepresence #AI #communication #leadership #careerdevelopment #softskills #negotiation #empathy #businessculture #personalbranding Listen also on YouTube, Apple Podcast, and Amazon Music.

How We Negotiated Unique Careers With Top Global Brands While Tackling Immigrant Challenges

skool.com/leadwithoutblinders In this episode, Shujaat and Joselle delve into the critical yet often overlooked skill of negotiation in leadership. They discuss the importance of negotiation as a foundational skill for professionals, especially in today's dynamic job market. The conversation explores various frameworks for effective negotiation, real-world scenarios, and the unique challenges faced by immigrant leaders. The hosts emphasize the need for a strategic approach to negotiation, highlighting the significance of understanding the stakes, co-creating value, and the cultural influences that shape negotiation styles. They also discuss how AI can be leveraged to practice negotiation skills and the importance of personal branding in the negotiation process. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Leadership Insights 01:11 The Importance of Negotiation in Leadership 06:45 Framework for Effective Negotiation 10:26 Real-World Negotiation Scenarios: Tough Job Market, Negotiating for Career Moves, and Negotiating for Flexibility 21:55 Using AI for Negotiation 24:36 Negotiating With Yourself When You Have Little Leverage 27:56 Negotiation as a Leadership Skill 30:32 Negotiation Challenges for Immigrants 39:00 Wrap Up #ai #leadership #negotiationskills #career #immigrants #personaldevelopment

Personal Branding in the AI era | S2 E3

In this conversation, Shujaat and Joselle explore the critical importance of personal branding in today's job market, especially for immigrants. They discuss how branding shapes perceptions and influences career opportunities, emphasizing the need for individuals to actively manage their personal brand. The discussion covers strategies for building a brand, the impact of AI and social media, and the significance of thought leadership. The hosts provide actionable insights and frameworks for listeners to define and enhance their personal brand, ultimately encouraging them to take control of their narrative in the professional landscape. Don't forget to subscribe to Here's The Deal monthly podcast for more insights on career growth and leadership, and our weekly AI and Future of Work mythbusting and tutorials for your career transformation with AI! https://www.youtube.com/@belongandlead Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Branding 03:20 The Importance of Personal Branding 06:25 Defining Personal Branding 08:53 Building Your Brand: Perception and Intentionality 10:10 Framework for Defining Your Brand 12:48 The Role of AI in Branding and Job Market 15:54 Social Media and Professional Branding 17:26 Using AI Tools for Personal Branding 20:22 Conclusion: The Future of Branding in the Workplace 27:19 Exploring Personal Branding and AI 30:04 The Importance of Thought Leadership 34:57 Navigating the Landscape of Branding 38:37 The Immigrant Perspective on Branding 45:09 Reframing Presence and Performance 47:55 Strategies and Tactics for Effective Branding

The Pope's Selection and How Succession Planning (really) Happens in Companies. | S2 E2

How can a centuries-old selection process for a Pope teach us about modern corporate succession? In this episode, Shujaat Ahmad and Joselle Deocampo-Gautam reveal the surprising parallels between the Vatican's conclave and the often-unspoken rules of getting ahead in business. We explore how to strategically position yourself for future opportunities, build a legacy that lasts, and navigate the emotional and operational challenges of leadership transitions. Here's The Deal is your guide to understanding the toughest challenges in leadership, culture, and the future of work. Hosted by Shujaat Ahmad and Joselle Deocampo-Gautam. #SuccessionPlanning #LeadershipDevelopment #CareerGrowth #Podcast #BusinessStrategy #HeresTheDeal Audio time stamps:  00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Succession Planning 02:51 The Importance of Succession Planning 04:49 Lessons from the Papal Conclave 06:49 Understanding Power Dynamics in Leadership 09:39 Status Quo vs. Change in Leadership 12:06 The Role of Tradition in Succession 14:01 Implications for Companies and Leaders 16:57 Navigating Succession as Immigrant Leaders 26:17 Understanding Succession Planning 33:21 The Importance of Followership 41:03 Navigating Succession as an Immigrant Leader 49:19 Frameworks for Leadership Success

How to Craft Career Pathways in a Tough Market | Insights for 2025 Grads | S2 E1

In this different take on the "commencement speech for new grads", we ( your hosts Shujaat and Joselle) provide valuable insights and advice for new graduates entering the workforce. We do a live build for a framework on career crafting in a tough market. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding and leveraging different forms of capital—financial, knowledge, and network. We debunk the myth that working for smaller or less established companies limits learning opportunities. Observing the language and culture of a company, leveraging AI tools, networking, and continuously learning are highlighted as crucial strategies for career success. Additionally, we discuss the impact of graduating during economic uncertainty and suggest maintaining a proactive attitude towards learning and skill-building. We conclude by encouraging new graduates to create a digital presence, share authentic perspectives, and embrace the opportunities and challenges of the evolving job market. 01:10 Today's Focus: Advice for New Graduates 01:59 Impact of AI on Entry-Level Jobs 02:39 Economic Uncertainty and Job Market Challenges 08:30 Advice for New Grads with Job Offers14:27 Navigating the Workplace Culture 24:01 Advice for New Grads Still Job Hunting 26:58 Opportunities in the AI-Driven Market 35:22 Navigating Career Changes 36:27 Leveraging AI and Tech in Non-Tech Industries 37:06 The Value of Diverse Early Career Experiences 39:11 Creating a Learning Map for Career Success 44:04 Become the Trend Yourself 50:01 Live Build: Framework for Career Crafting in an Uncertain Market 57:01 Strategy to Tactics: Owning your Digital Presence 01:03:48 Final Thoughts and Encouragement