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 →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 […]
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 →As part of its Diversity and Inclusion program, does your organization celebrate the many social changes and achievements spurred by the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.? If so, join in! If not, here are a few ideas to consider…many of which are utilized by some of the country’s largest […]
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 →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 […]
Read More →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 […]
Read More →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 […]
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 →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, […]
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 →I enjoy this time of year. And, it’s seems many others do, as well. It’s a season of fun-filled gatherings and sharing good wishes. During this time of year, kindness, warm smiles and generosity are legitimized in all dimensions of life. Perhaps you and your co-workers are making plans for a luncheon at […]
Read More →After a recent keynote on Work-Life Balance, two attendees approached me. They said, “Our leaders say work-life balance is important. They even encourage us to use our vacation, not work weekends and holidays, and flex as we need to. But, the people they call out for recognition and special rewards are those who […]
Read More →Whether you’re going to your own company’s holiday party, your significant other’s, or something thrown by a client or colleague, remember these important survival tips: 1) Dress appropriately. The parts of you that shouldn’t be shown at work also shouldn’t be shown at the company parties, even if the party is on Saturday night. […]
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 →A recent survey said 47.2% of people in the US are unhappy. After I read that, I decided to conduct an informal survey at a gathering of over 400 successful professionals. What I learned surprised me. Turns out, at least among that group of meeting attendees, 47.2% is optimistic! Only 20% of the […]
Read More →Are you an optimist, a pessimist or a cynic? If you don’t know the answer to the question, ask anyone around you. They know the answer. The optimist sees the glass as half full. The pessimist sees the glass as half empty. The cynic? It’s hard to say, but one thing is for […]
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