What separates a good Insight professional from a truly impactful one?
It might come down to something deceptively simple and yet surprisingly difficult: the willingness to form and express a confident opinion.
In Episode 88 of the Transforming Insight podcast, we look at the individual mindset and behaviours that define how Insight professionals show up in their organisations. Joining me to explore our topic is Jane Woolley, my colleague and senior adviser at the IMA, whose work guiding Insight teams over 20 years gives her a sharp and empathetic view of what holds professionals back.
Together we look at the barriers that can prevent Insight professionals from sharing their opinions. Is it a lack of confidence, stakeholder expectations, gaps in training, or a preference for focusing on the more technical aspects of research or analysis? Jane thinks they can all play a role, and if left unaddressed, they quietly limit the impact Insight teams can have.
But this week's episode isn't just a diagnosis, it's a call to action!
Jane shares practical frameworks, including the SCQAB and HERO processes, designed to help professionals develop well-grounded opinions rooted in evidence and business understanding. And we look at Insight leaders' critical role in setting the tone and creating an environment where forming an opinion is not just permitted but expected and celebrated.
As we work together to shape the future of Insight in our organisations, forming opinions about what our businesses should do differently will become more and more important. It's a key part of our shift from researchers to consultants, from analysts to Insight activists.
Please listen to find out more!
Topics discussed
- The shift from researchers to Insight activists (2.34)
- Stakeholder expectations and misunderstandings (6.45)
- Do we feel competent to form opinions? (10.46)
- The shift in skillset: from technical to business understanding (16.03)
- Practical frameworks that can help us all (18.12)
- Encouraging conversations and safe spaces for opinions (22.49)
James Wycherley
Host of the Transforming Insight podcast
Chief Executive, IMA