In the last session of a workshop series on teamwork with an up-and-coming group of middle managers, I led the group through an exercise around an activity that we don’t do often enough, either in... Continue reading
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
I hate to be in default or in the wrong, or to create a problem for someone. So I was quite distressed when I was scolded by a client’s administrator -- not someone I usually... Continue reading
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
Where do you lead from? Is it from the front, issuing commands and carrying a flag? From the back, perhaps with just a nod and barely a whisper? Or do you lead from somewhere in... Continue reading
No executive wants to deal with “Vic the Victim” or “Negative Ned”. And no employee really wants to be the perpetual bearer of bad tidings. But the truth, although often inconvenient, is actually a crucial... Continue reading
Some business problems are so straightforward they can be solved by the right research; once the facts are available, there’s almost no discussion necessary. When a business problem is complicated and thorny, though, the way... Continue reading
A number of readers have written to ask how they can make real progress in those areas of leadership where they don’t feel strong enough, particularly if they don’t have personal access to a consultant,... Continue reading
When employees are not shut down or demotivated by fear, they’re able to absorb input and recommendations, learn and grow, and stretch to meet larger goals and aims. How can leaders create safety and trusting... Continue reading
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
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