Charles Schwab said, "The way to develop the best that is in a person is by appreciation and encouragement." Oprah Winfrey said, "Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't…
Coaching Girls Softball Taught Me Important Lessons About Leadership
One of the biggest influences in my young life was a baseball coach in junior high who spent extra time with me, not the best athlete by any measure. He helped me work on my batting technique, especially, bunting. It…
What Performance Appraisals Are Really About…
When I met with my former Italian human resources director, which often was over dinner, he would frequently tell me, “In Italia, dinner is about the relationship. Not the food.” I responded, “You have me fooled. This food and wine…
The One Step All Leaders Should Take to Drive Results!
The one step that all leaders can take to drive results is supported by mom and empirical research. It is simple and straight forward. Even a five-year-old can do it. Say “thank you.” When employees are recognized and thanked by…
Seven Mistakes New Leaders Make
I have worked with new leaders for over 25 years. Some make smooth transitions to leadership, but for many others, it is a rocky transition. Here are seven mistakes new leaders make and how to overcome them: Keep on doing…
During this Thanksgiving Season, be the role model for recognition and appreciation!
This week is the Thanksgiving Holiday in the United States. It’s a good time for leaders to step back from the hustle and bustle and reflect on how they have thanked their teams for their hard work and contributions. Thanksgiving…
Leaders today need agility—not dominance
Dominance has been the determining factor for selecting future leaders for decades[i], but that is changing. In fast-paced, digital, global businesses, dominance can create a good first impression, but it has a habit of wearing thin on people. When that…