Tag: responsibility
We Can Make Big Problems When We Don’t Talk Enough About Accountability
What do executives mean when they demand accountability? And what do employees mean when they complain that no one in the company has any? Usually, they mean that someone should have decided, acted, or otherwise... Continue reading
Who Defines Your Service Rules?
According to an old Swahili proverb: “When the elephants fight, it’s the grass that suffers.” That’s certainly true in organizations where executives have ongoing disagreements. Whether the situation involves explicit, pitched battles, or covert, passive-aggressive... Continue reading
Want to Give Good Service? You Need to Stay a Step Ahead
On Sunday morning, Daughter and I went to a local diner where the food is always good, but the service is often iffy. Our waitress had been somewhat unhelpful in the past, so I studied... Continue reading
What You Need to Know If You Work with Overly Urgent Employees
It’s aggravating and distracting to work with a passive-aggressive colleague, but it can be just as frustrating to work with someone who’s too active, too intense, and yet has too little to show for it.... Continue reading
Do You Need to Work with Someone Who Rolls Over and Plays Dead?
Has this happened to you? You may think you have a clear agreement with a colleague about concepts, details or both, but then nothing happens. They seem fully on board in meetings and public settings,... Continue reading
How to Progress While the Rules Are Changing
I was speaking with a high-potential middle manager who’s struggling with a raft of organizational changes including modifications of sales policies, comp plans, and various other crucial aspects of work life. He expressed tremendous frustration... Continue reading
It’s Risky If Your Managers are Trying to Be Heroes
From time to time, every organization has to face tough challenges. They can be market-imposed, like a new regulation that changes the way you need to operate; self-imposed, like a fixed ship date for a... Continue reading
How Your Lack of Feedback Can Damage Your Team
Many managers avoid giving critical feedback to subordinates or peers, and steer clear of criticizing their own managers. Despite the tremendous business relevance of candid feedback and the frequent requirement to provide it, any kind... Continue reading