In my experience, I’ve seen how innovation and effective problem solving are more easily achieved when companies actively seek interdepartmental collaboration.  They break down long-standing silos and encouraging open communication.  Microsoft Workplace Insights contributors offer these tips to accomplish this challenging task. Broaden your employee’s vision.  Bring diverse teams together to work on an initiative. They’ll uncover a […]

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According to a recent article from Microsoft Workplace Insights, employees who reach outside their silos gain skills faster and make ore sales.  But many companies aren’t built to function across teams, departments or divisions.  Here are three things Microsoft recommends doing to create cross-silo collaboration. Develop and deploy cultural brokers. Look for people who already excel at interdepartmental […]

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There’s an African proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone.  If you want to go far, go together.”  Going together means delegating to or collaborating with others. But doing so successfully can be challenging.  Executive coach Helen Baxter-Southworth and team dynamics expert Russ Forrester say these five values and behaviors hold the key to working […]

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Do you understand the importance of relationships in the workplace? Are you able to get things done in a way that doesn’t ruffle feathers?  If your answer is “Yes,” very likely you’re seen as a mover and shaker.  If “No” is your response, your effectiveness and reputation are suffering. If you work with people, in […]

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At work and everywhere you go this holiday season spread good cheer. The world needs your positive energy and good feeling vibes. In fact, YOU benefit greatly, psychologically and biologically, when you’re in a positive, cheerful frame of mind. So, think good thoughts.   Wear a heart-felt smile. And, practice patience, particularly when others have lost […]

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Attending networking events is a great way to meet new people who can help you with your goals or career ambitions. But if you’re someone who finds such events difficult and uncomfortable, consider this option. Volunteer for a non-profit organization. Join a board or a committee. Or become a regular participant with a leadership role […]

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How do you feel about work?   More specifically, your particular job? A recent study found that people who are emotionally attached to their work and identify with it enjoy a greater sense of psychological wellbeing. That’s meaningful to employees and employers. You’re motivated to do a better job when you identify with your work. You […]

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I enjoy ads and commercials. The good ones stick with me. I’m impacted by their images, sounds and words. The best ones have a dramatic tagline or slogan – a succinct, repeatable core message about the product or service that conveys the essence of what the company wants you to believe and remember. They’re designed […]

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You’re about to engage in a difficult, yet crucial conversation – one where emotional tensions are high, you’re intent on proving a point, being right and prevailing.  Often times, there’s little warning.  You may suddenly find yourself in the middle of a response before you’ve properly assessed the situation. When difficult conversations don’t happen, problems […]

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