My mission: To make the world a better place, and choose a line of work that makes that happen. I do what I do for a living because when people have a better day at work, there is a positive ripple effect on the lives around them. And, when business is more productive, that’s good … Read more
I did some impromptu soul-searching recently when Drew McLellan posted this prompt on social media: “I got a note…from a 17-year-old entrepreneur from Scotland, asking me what I wish 17-year-old entrepreneur me had known. “I am certainly going to offer him my advice, but I’d like to share yours as well. “What would you want … Read more
Curtis H. sent me a question via Linked-In: “As a previous leader in my fraternal organization at University, I found staying positive and bottling complaints overwhelming at times. If leaders shouldn’t show insecurity or vent around their followers, then is there an appropriate way to relieve those feelings?” Excellent question, Curtis. There are definitely inappropriate … Read more
My sixteen-year-old daughter made an observation during a trip to Disney World that may be helpful to you. She believes the phrase “you too” is a frequent automatic response to parting words from service people. Some phrases, however, don’t work well with this automatic response and leave the customer feeling awkward. Examples of accidentally awkward … Read more
In The Effective Manager, Mark Horstman shares data on the value on one-on-ones. In their research, which has been replicated multiple times, they found that results and retention improve by about 10% when managers implement weekly one-on-ones. Another finding is that managers who are consistent with one-on-ones with their people tend to get promoted at … Read more
I was re-reading the outstanding Flawless Consulting by Peter Block and appreciated how he outlined the issues underlying phrases like: “These people” OR “Those people” (followed by) “don’t understand” OR “need to understand.” WHAT THESE PEOPLE DON’T UNDERSTAND… So, what’s wrong with this? It separates the leader from the people they lead, diminishes a leader’s … Read more
Last week, I introduced you to Chris McQueen, current Head of Community—Created Content for ServiceNow, former Google employee. This week, I want to share something else from McQueen that I think you’ll find helpful. Any time you cite a problem, turn it into a question that starts with these three words: How Might We… First … Read more
In July of 2009, my family and I sat reading in a quiet lobby in a small inn in rural Prince Edward Island. It was about 9:45 p.m. This kind of thing is often hard for me. I like to move, change activities quickly, and have my senses stimulated. Those are all reasons I love … Read more
Some people think the U.S. is headed for an economic downturn, and I know some managers who are bracing for that potential storm. Samir runs a boutique marketing firm that promises clean and consistent brand development and graphic design. Ellyn manages a production facility. She ensures that products are produced with quality consistency, just-in-time delivery, … Read more
As a political junkie, I’ve been watching political coverage on news outlets lately. There are three words/phrases I’ve heard repetatively that I worry might creep into workplace discussions. They are: Let me be clear Look Listen All three of these words/phrases are time killers, a way to hold their place “in line” before getting interrupted … Read more