How to Make a Small Tweak in Communication for a Surprisingly Big Change
When I interviewed a group of highly experienced technical employees at a client company last week, one of the things I asked them was what consistently made them nuts on the job. They told me... Continue reading
Here Are the 3 Unexpected Things I Learned from Surviving a TEDx Talk
A couple of years ago, when a dear colleague emailed me to ask if I’d consider speaking at TEDxBaylorSchool, I was terrified. Not of speaking, per se, but of the combination of requirements that characterize... Continue reading
How to Stop Counterproductive Criticism and Coach Constructively
One of the most frequent concerns I encounter when I’m interviewing business people — regardless of whether they work on the frontlines or are members of boards of directors — is that they rarely hear... Continue reading
When a Good Thing Triggers a Surprisingly Bad Response
This holiday season I gave a small gift to a local supplier as a token thank you. It was clear from her immediate reaction that she’s not used to receiving client gifts. She started out... Continue reading
How to Choose an Inspiring Theme for The New Year
Do you know anyone who can’t wait for this year to end? I certainly do, and who can blame them, between family and work troubles, political turmoil and natural disasters. Some of them are looking... Continue reading
It’s Always Better to Resolve a Problem Than to Reroute It
When should an organization realize that it’s not enough to keep stepping around a problem — and that it’s time to work through it and stop the excessive cost, disruption, and generally bad customer experience?... Continue reading
How to Get the Most from Your Exit Interviews
Are you doing thoughtful exit interviews with all levels of departing employees? The exit interview is one of few concrete opportunities to learn what makes someone comfortable to work in your organization — or not... Continue reading
Have You Expressed Your Gratitude for Your Colleagues?
Most people like Thanksgiving for its relative lack of commercialism and its inclusivity. It’s all about food, friends, and family — an opportunity to be together in some semblance of comfort and caring. In many... Continue reading