Blog
Why Your Team’s Best Ideas Never Surface During Crisis (And the Brain Science That Changes Everything)
The next time you are faced with a looming deadline or project setback, try one of these counterintuitive strategies to enhance team problem-solving.
Choose Your Mindset Before Addressing Employee Behavior: An Emotional Intelligence Approach
Before having a candid conversation with a difficult employee, choose your mindset to optimize the likelihood of a positive outcome.
Socks, Shoe Laces, and Leadership Fundamentals
With March Madness around the corner, I’m reminded of legendary coach John Wooden, who prioritized foundational leadership skills as the head coach of the UCLA Bruins. Known for his attention to detail, Wooden focused on basic skills that many overlook, like putting on socks properly—a simple but powerful lesson in leadership. I know this sounds…
5 Ways to Stay Calm When Addressing Abrasive Behavior
You’re a leader responsible for addressing the abrasive behavior of one of your top performers. In the midst of telling her you’ve received complaints about disrespectful treatment of employees, you remain calm. Your tone conveys that you genuinely care about helping her overcome negative perceptions about her leadership style. Moreover, you reassure her that you’re…
A Boss’s Ripple Effect on Business Culture
Cheryl and her boss Dan were in a conversation about a project that needed to be accomplished. As the conversation was about to wrap up, Cheryl made a comment with an edgy tone that didn’t directly address what she was upset about. Without skipping a beat, Dan calmly stood up, closed the door, and sat…
You Can Lead A Horse To Water…
This is a four part series of blogs addressing the question “Can Abrasive Employees Really Change?”. Part I addressed the importance of the managers working through their own anxiety before intervening with the abrasive employee. Part II outlined key elements of a proven change process. Part III discussed accountability as both helping to sustain change…