Here are the 5 practices to integrate into the way you think and behave, when you want to enhance the level of trust on your team, feel more connected to the people you work with, day-to-day, convey expectations with clarity, confidence and compassion and be seen as a competent leader: First, recognize your […]

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Do you labor under the Illusion that IQ drives effectiveness? For most roles, IQ and technical skills are important threshold capabilities – entry-level requirements. Once you rise to the levels of managing and leading, Emotional Intelligence is what sets you apart. No doubt, IQ may predict whether you’re capable of handling the cognitive challenges associated […]

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  Differentiate yourself from the masses – that large group of average performers – and stand out like a star. First step: strengthen your emotional intelligence – a set of personal skills identified as key drivers of outstanding performance. Research says, at all job levels, Emotional Intelligence is twice as important as your technical and […]

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  Ever find yourself complaining about what’s wrong in your organization; saying to yourself and anyone who’ll listen, “Can’t they see this is a problem?  Why don’t they do something about it?”  Whether you know it or not, you’re disempowering yourself.  You’re sounding and acting helpless. Instead, adopt the point of view that says, “I’m […]

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  During a recent workshop, a participant confessed his lack of empathy, a core dimension of emotional intelligence.  He said, “I don’t have any and I don’t know how to even begin to think about feeling the way others do.”  Given the laughter and head nodding, he was not alone. To his surprise, I told […]

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  Designated as Black History month, February is the time when we spotlight the rich and diverse history of Americans of African descent. You, your company, and other organizations you’re involved in, can learn about and honor contributions African Americans have made to our country, and the world.  Here are several ideas to consider: · […]

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Recently, I heard a Vietnamese proverb that says, “When eating a fruit, think of the person who planted the tree.”  The saying called my attention to the times and ways I don’t “think of the person who planted the tree.” It reminded me that everything I accomplish, and all the conveniences and freedoms I enjoy, […]

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Being a middle manager has its challenges.  You have to work effectively with those above you and those below you.  And, when you’re at your best you know you serve yourself and the organizations well when you come together with your peers to share information, learn from one another and solve problems. If you’re a […]

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  At one point or another, you’ve probably heard the phrase, “Be here now.”  More and more, it’s becoming a popular expression in business circles. While sharing his 2015 goals with me, a coaching client mentioned that “Be here now,” was one of his 2015 commitments.  He explained that he had already begun doing a […]

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    If you’re a current member of the workforce, whether you’re the CEO, a middle manager, administrative assistant, or the security guard, continual learning and growth are key to your success. Today, all workers and and their jobs are impacted by rapid changes in technology, as well as market forces that are often unpredictable […]

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  Daniel Goleman, author of Emotional Intelligence, identified six leadership styles. Each style can be effective if it’s used in the appropriate situation. Four of them are especially effective in enabling teams to work well together and make the best use of the diversity of styles and skills present. They include the visionary style which […]

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  Here’s an activity that can get your next staff meeting off to a positive start. Ask participants to share one thing that’s working well, and aligns with your 2015 strategic focus. Allow them the latitude to mention something they’ve done, personally; share an accomplishment by the team or a specific team member; talk about […]

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    Does other people’s resistance to new ideas or important process changes frustrate you? Don’t dig your heels in and debate. Instead of resisting their resistance, consider their “NO,” whether stated or demonstrated through their behavior, as a call for conversation – an opportunity to more fully understand all aspects of their perspective. Ask […]

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    Leaders often face dilemmas – situations wherein there is no clear solution, no definitive right or wrong answer. It becomes easy to bounce between what can be defined as opposing alternatives. For example, do we set team or individual goals? Do we want stability or change? Do we give priority to task and […]

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    Many times, a simple shift, consistently implemented, can make a world of difference. So, instead of feeling overwhelmed or intimidated by the thought of resolutions and goals, this year, choose one simple change you care about and are willing to make. Search yourself and opt for something that’s important to you…maybe it’s to […]

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  Want to make 2015 your best year yet? Practice seeing the people and situations in your life with fresh eyes…eyes that view others as allies supporting your growth…eyes that see situations as opportunities to evolve and expand. Each obstacle, high hurdle, hurtful relationship, impossible situation, and daunting task calls you to let go of […]

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    I bet you still have parties, dinners, drinks and drop-bys on your holiday social calendar.  Whether it’s a company-sponsored event, a colleague-hosted gathering, or a party with family and friends, put your best foot forward.  Steer clear of “too many” and “too much:”…too many bad jokes, too much heated political debate, too many […]

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    From Thanksgiving until the New Year, appreciation, acknowledgement, gratitude, rededication, celebration, joy, peace and hope are prevalent in the awareness of many people. The meaning and energy of these kinds of words stimulate good feelings. Good feelings cause us to think more positive thoughts, and smile more. They even help us behave in […]

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    Do you sometimes find yourself in a high stakes situation, and every thought that comes to mind is about exactly the outcome you DO NOT want?  For example, preparing for an important presentation, you begin imaging the audience asking questions you can’t answer.  Or you’re planning to ask for a raise you know you deserve, […]

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    Speaking about his boss, the new company President, my client said, “This guy is amazing.  Very quickly, he’s changed the way we operate.  We now accomplish more in weeks and months than we used to in a year!” “How did he make that happen,” I asked? He thought for a moment, then, leaning forward and […]

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