Suzi McAlpine is a bestselling author, leadership coach to CEOs across New Zealand, and sought-after speaker. Her commitment to igniting better leadership, particularly as workplace burnout surges in New Zealand, makes her work vital. Suzi's bestselling book, Beyond Burnout, her leadership programme The Leader’s Map, and her award-winning blog The Leader’s Digest all tackle this pressing issue.
Why is addressing workplace burnout so crucial for Kiwi leaders?
Since publishing Beyond Burnout, burnout rates in New Zealand have soared, with over 50% of Kiwi employees at risk. We’re among the most burned-out globally. Leaders can exacerbate or alleviate this issue. We shouldn’t discuss burnout without addressing culture and leadership capability. With the right tools, we can create workplaces where both people and profits thrive.
What practical steps can leaders take to combat burnout?
Recognising early signs is crucial: watch for cynicism, exhaustion, and decreased effectiveness. Prevent burnout by fostering trust, creating social connections at work, and improving prioritisation. Involve people in the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of their work, not just the ‘what’. Enable work from strengths. For those experiencing burnout, acknowledge it and seek support. Leaders can destigmatise burnout in the workplace.
How does The Leader’s Map help emerging leaders navigate these challenges?
The Leader’s Map equips emerging and midlevel leaders with tools to succeed. This blended programme emphasises self-awareness, emotional intelligence, team building, feedback, coaching, and leading change—crucial skills for preventing burnout and creating high-performing teams.
What drives you to share your knowledge through The Leader’s Digest?
The Leader’s Digest shares practical leadership tips and global trends within a Kiwi context. It’s my way of igniting better leadership across New Zealand.
Why do you do this work?
I’ve witnessed the magic of skilled leadership in organisations. I’ve guided thousands of leaders and hundreds of teams to improve. There’s a direct link between skilled leadership and reduced burnout rates. My personal experience with burnout recovery, combined with my leadership coaching, offers a unique perspective on both burnout and leadership—and the connection between them.
Suzi’s practical tips to address and avoid burnout:
Visit suzimcalpine.com to get Beyond Burnout, subscribe to The Leader’s Digest, and learn more about The Leader’s Map and Suzi’s other leadership services.
