Practically every executive knows that praise is a crucial management tool. Gallup research shows that when managers recognize employees’ strengths and positive characteristics, rather than focusing on their weaknesses and negative characteristics, employee engagement goes... Continue reading
In the past 10 days, three people from different organizations have complained to me about a boss or colleague who’s behaved condescendingly toward them. Not one of the three is a slouch, or a junior... Continue reading
This article originally appeared on hbr.org. We’ve all been in situations where the boss has a favorite. It’s frustrating to feel underresourced and underrecognized while someone else is getting all the attention. Ironically, though, it... Continue reading
“Oh, heavens,” I thought, “I’ve offended her!” I had wanted to be helpful and friendly, but instead I was confusing and possibly insulting -- I had given feedback as if the problem was with the... Continue reading
The other morning, I was feeling cranky, unfocused, and unproductive -- the perfect situation for coffee. Sadly, I haven’t been allowed to have caffeine for a couple of years, on doctor’s orders, and I miss... Continue reading
Do an online search for “employee engagement” and you’ll get 10.6 million hits. Search for “employee attrition” and you’ll come up with 1.38 million hits. The old line is that employees don’t leave companies, they... Continue reading
Years ago, I had a client who actually used to say, “Fire! Aim! Ready!” when he was issuing some decree or other. This business owner acknowledged he was shooting from the hip, reacting suddenly and... Continue reading
I’m very lucky to experience much less disagreement or outright conflict on the job than most people. Although my clients’ views may differ from mine in many ways, it’s implicit in our relationship that we’re... Continue reading
Why would you ever consider hiring someone whose behavior you disrespect? Eventually, the relationship will end in tears -- and if you’re not the one crying, you’ll be handing out the Kleenex. But it can... Continue reading
When I suggested 6 Books to Make You Feel New and Improved in 2017 -- to be consumed at the rate of one book every other month -- readers responded so well that I’m recommending... Continue reading
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