Aspiring for “excellence” can lead to an inspiring environment of achievement. But if you miss the target, you might only create a neurotic atmosphere of fear. I once was talking with a new team member as part of his on-boarding process, when I mentioned to him that “excellence” was one of our core values. “Oh…
The Hidden Message Behind “I Hate Meetings” — And Why Great Leaders Never Say It
When you say, “I hate meetings!”, your team could be receiving a message that might be damaging your culture more than you ever realized. In recent years a virtual movement concerning trend has sprung up in leadership circles where it has become increasingly fashionable to announce, “I hate meetings!” When You Say ‘I Hate Meetings’…
Leadership Beyond Data: Unlocking the Power of Nuanced Insight
Effective leaders know that while certain metrics require counting, there are also vital indicators that require weighing. Let’s face it. Leaders measure. It’s part of what we do. It’s in our “DNA”. We want to know how many, how much, how often, how far and how fast. But as seasoned leaders will tell you, while counting tells you some important…
Leading with Clarity: How to Keep Your Team Focused on What Matters Most
As a leader, you likely spend a great deal of time and effort addressing issues of under-performance on your team. But in most cases, the issue that should really be dealt with is that of lack of clarity, not under-performance. Lack of clarity is the all-too common problem that sees members of a team deliver…
Lead With Impact, Not Ego: Ditching ‘Watch Me Swim’ Leadership
Have you ever encountered a “watch me swim” leader? This is the person who insists on letting you know about every accomplishment they’ve achieved, no matter how small or insignificant. The attitude is very similar to the child splashing around the swimming pool, desperate for the grown-ups to notice their aquatic abilities. For children in…
