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 […]
Read More →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 […]
Read More →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 […]
Read More →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: · […]
Read More →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 […]
Read More →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 […]
Read More →You can boost employee trust, loyalty and engagement through the use of one simple strategy: put emphasis on developing your people. Here are two ways to do just that. 1. Regularly provide behavior-based feedback, as evidence of your interest in supporting each person’s success. Remember the 5 to 1 ratio – offer 5 appreciative […]
Read More →Like any classic, Bernard Bass’s book, Leadership and Performance Beyond Expectations, remains relevant 30 years post-publication. He said leaders who transform their environment, and the people around them: -Demonstrates integrity and fairness. -Sets clear goals that require stretch. -Has high expectations of herself and others. -Encourages others to perform well – to […]
Read More →Are you feeling stuck, stale and unsatisfied in your job? First, examine your thinking to see if an attitude adjustment is needed. After all, a job is like any relationship. If you do the same thing, in the same way for too long, boredom sets in. Before your performance slips and people start to […]
Read More →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 […]
Read More →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 […]
Read More →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 […]
Read More →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 […]
Read More →Stumped by a business problem? Perhaps it’s complex and gnarly; it’s complications compounded by competing interests of stakeholders? Before you go at it again, take a break and get happy. No seriously; I mean it. Stop tackling the task. Instead, think about something that makes you feel really good. It may be the time when you received an […]
Read More →A certified user of Benchmarks, a 360 instrument developed by the Center for Creative Leadership, I find it an effective tool for helping leaders understand how they’re experienced and perceived along 16 competencies, rated by a range of stakeholders. Another important section of the report describes five problems that can stall your career. […]
Read More →Celebrating the holidays at work is becoming increasingly complex. Here are a few simple seasonal suggestions that may help you demonstrate respect for different cultures, avoid the appearance of favoritism and keep gift-giving appropriate for the relationship. Give cards that say “Happy Holidays” or “Happy New Year!” minus the obvious Christmas imagery. Those […]
Read More →On a recent trip to my bank, I encountered an employee who had more excuses for not helping me than solutions to my problem. She simply apologized, over and over and over again. It became clear that she wasn’t open to identifying a solution for a valued customer. She didn’t offer to call […]
Read More →Ken Blanchard says there are four key elements leaders should keep in mind when building or restoring trust. Demonstrate that you’re ABLE to get the job done and produce results while providing people with necessary resources and information. Show up as consistent, BELIEVABLE, honest, fair, equitable and transparent in your dealings with people. […]
Read More →Initially a reluctant client, Michael began our scheduled meeting in an unexpected way. He said he wanted to talk about the difference our work has made for him. Michael had become a convert. He said, “Over the last six months, you’ve been a part of every critical event, every defining moment, in my […]
Read More →For nearly all of us, there are times when the pressure inside builds to overflowing. Brimming with angst of varying natures, we feel we’ll explode with the next drop of unwanted stress. It’s at that moment you need to a constructive way to open up and let out some steam. My clients tell […]
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