While it’s true that leaders need to show positivity, remain optimistic, and give positive feedback, there is a point at which it can be “too much.” In fact, showing empathy can be more important than positivity. If someone is very down, negative, or serious, then your attempts to “pump them up” can have quite the … Read more
A while back, I wrote a post describing the idea T=r+d: Trust equals reliability (meeting expectations) plus delight (exceeding expectations). How about a story describing precisely the opposite? I actually wrote this post about a restaurant experience my family and I had in 2011. I didn’t publish it back then for two reasons: I didn’t … Read more
Feedback from leaders drives engagement and performance, yet workers report that feedback is lacking. Leaders even know this truth, but still avoid giving feedback. Last week we explored five common reasons leaders can be uncomfortable giving feedback, with reasons to do it anyway. This week – two reasons why it might be wise to delay giving feedback: … Read more
These posts, and thousands of books, explore ways to engage and lead others better. Let’s be clear; these techniques and skills work for the vast majority of folks. But not for all of them. We are plagued by “The Ten Percent.” It seems so common, that we might call it a general rule; in any … Read more
This week’s book is Be Our Guest.
A: When the relationship is strong enough, AND, according to coach John Robinson: “Never criticize until the person is convinced of your unconditional confidence in their abilities.” When I think of the people in my life that I willingly take criticism and feedback from, without taking it personally (though my wife and friends may point … Read more
In these next four posts, we’ll look at the pros and cons of each basic DiSC preference from the standpoint of the leader. It makes sense to start with the “i,” because this blog has already hinted at the issues faced by the “i” in action. Someone is possibly an “i” (influencer) if they are … Read more
Tabby and Alan discuss the “3 magic words” that help make requests pleasant and keep people engaged.
Matt and Alan talk about the danger of dwelling on things.
Sarah and Alan talk about a technique to cut down on passive-aggressive and/or sarcastic speech from the people around you. Related post: Ignore the Tone