Solve Big Problems - Start With NO Answers
To engage your employees and make them feel valued, the number one thing you can do is listen. That doesn’t mean ask a question then have the answer in your head, but to ask a question, be present, and truly listen. Here are some practical strategies we put together after listening to Hal Gregersen, Executive Director of the MIT Leadership Center who says “The real questions are ones where it causes someone...to step back, think twice.” 1. Be Uncomfortable - As a leader, you
Managing "First-timers" Should Not Be a Headache
Does the thought of managing an employee for their first “real-job” give you anxiety? It doesn’t need to. Young employees are full of energy and creativity and are anxious to learn. First-timers will make mistakes. If you embrace the challenge, anticipate their shortcomings, and have open communication, you can positively influence them. Here are three key points to give your newbie a real shot at succeeding. Outline Expectations - Meet with your employee right way and explai
Don't Ignore These Leadership Trends
A new year brings new challenges, like continuous turnover, and pressures from top management, as well as new opportunities, like how to engage smart, talented employees and how to strengthen culture. Below are two practical articles outlining trends from Inc. and YPO as well as three of our own observations from working with our clients. More Young People Are In Charge CEOs are in their twenties and thirties and new supervisors are just out of college. While this generation
You Set Your Goals for the New Year, But How Will You Reach Them?
Whether you own the company, or your boss came to you with specific goals to reach, we’re recommending a new approach that will help you and your team reach your goals: 1. Communicate the Why - We often set goals each year not really connecting the dots to the overall mission and vision of the organization. When you define your goals, always check to make sure they get you to your “north star” and that they support your mission. Employees need to understand that their work ma
