Research shows that the primary reason chief executives and senior administrators fail is not from a lack of skills or abilities, but rather from not being aware of information that could negatively impact their organization. People at the decision-making level need to hear the voice of truth from those closest to the problem who deal […]

Which would you find the easiest to do? (a) Change your mind. (b) Change your weight. (c) Change your religion. The most obvious response is (a). But, if you apply a time factor to the situation you can see how your answer might be affected. For instance, let’s say that a while ago you agreed […]

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1090612 Exposing the Source of Rejection Performance management and process improvement are two feedback tools that expose those sources of rejection that are negatively impacting productivity. Once these hidden factors are opened for discussion, those involved will better understand how best to clarify their expectations and how to open the confusion pathway to collaborative problem-solving. […]

When you set out to resolve problems that are outside your sphere of influence, there is often no clear place to start. Unless a particular situation is begging for your attention, start by making a list of outcomes where the results failed to meet expectations. Use the four-step, problem-solving guide as your template, filling in […]

Our education system teaches students to compete against each other for recognition and rewards. Having been taught collectively and tested individually throughout their formative years, graduates find the transition from learning to earning difficult because the teaching and testing processes are reversed. First-time job placements enter the workforce valuing only what they can do for […]

Whenever contact is made, communication occurs. Every time you open your mouth, roll your eyes, purse your lips, nod your head, cross your arms, or clear your throat, someone is going to assign meaning to it. Hand gestures, voice tone, and body posture can send a signal that you like or dislike someone or are […]

The Competency Checklist below should make it easier for you to identify which competencies a particular person is missing and be in a position to assist him or her to develop those skills and abilities most needed for the job. You might also find it helpful to put your introspective “hat” on and think about […]

Unlike mentoring or networking, your support system will focus on you as a person, rather than on your job or career. The primary mode of communication between yourself and the “players” in your support system should be one-on-one. At times, the level of interaction can be intense, particularly during periods of doubt and confusion. The […]

The speed of innovation is accelerating and embracing the future is the way to stay competitive, but there is more to it than simply jumping from one short-term fix to another. Followers expect a future-focused strategy to have a marked beginning and a measurable ending and when these factors are not present; they eventually lose […]

Mistrust is the result of leaders and followers who do not bother to confirm their assumptions about a given situation before either or both take action. Here is an example. A production line supervisor needed some routine information from Larry who was working nearby at his station. The supervisor walked over to Larry and said, […]