How to Create Change at Work Without Losing Yourself with Melody WildingHow to Create Change at Work Without Losing Yourself with Melody Wilding
The One You Feed
Explore how to create change at work with Melody Wilding's insights on navigating office politics, developing agency, and working with integrity.
1:03:17•18 Jul 2025
Empowering Change at Work with Melody Wilding
Episode Overview
- Avoid labeling colleagues; focus on behaviors instead.
- Develop agency by choosing small positive actions.
- Align with leadership for effective collaboration.
- Understand and navigate leadership dynamics.
- Use practical tools to manage up and influence change.
“Agency isn't all or nothing. You can hold out for better leaders and work to change the system, and at the very same time, find small ways to choose your next best move.”
In this insightful episode of The One You Feed, host Eric Zimmer engages with Melody Wilding, an executive coach and author of 'Managing Up: How to Get What You Need from the People in Charge'. Melody challenges the notion that employees are powerless in their workplaces, even within tough cultures, and offers practical tools to help individuals create change without losing themselves.
Melody emphasizes the importance of shifting from labeling behaviors, such as calling someone a micromanager, to understanding the actions that define these behaviors. This approach allows for more effective problem-solving and engagement. She discusses how individuals can develop agency in their careers by focusing on small, positive actions rather than waiting for systemic change. A key aspect of the conversation is the idea of alignment with leadership.
Melody explains that to move forward effectively, employees need to understand and align with their organization's direction. This doesn't mean agreeing with everything but rather contextualizing leadership decisions. By presenting rough drafts and engaging in proactive discussions, employees can better navigate competing priorities and foster effective collaboration. Melody also delves into the dynamics of office politics and how to work with integrity while not being in charge.
She advocates for becoming a trusted advisor rather than simply complying with requests, which involves negotiating and crafting perceptions. The episode serves as a motivational reminder that regardless of circumstances, there is always a positive direction to head towards. Melody's strategies help listeners regain control and empower them to be proactive drivers in their work, rather than passive passengers.
For those interested in further exploring these concepts, Melody offers a free guide to identify hidden obstacles and actionable strategies for workplace empowerment.
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