Change Success – Initiate more conversations

When there is an organizational change, a systems upgrade or change in policy/procedures or leadership, a common mis-belief is that if we give people the facts, they can handle the change.  Facts are important to answer the “why” question.  But it doesn’t get to a personal level – and that’s where the change must beContinue reading “Change Success – Initiate more conversations”

WIIFM? First, Listen

People are so overwhelmed by things changing in their lives and their work that we can count on them begin distracted while we are trying to communicate. Whether you are leading a training session or a meeting, over half the people are preoccupied with other thoughts.  Some are already gearing up to argue with you.Continue reading “WIIFM? First, Listen”

Abundance in the job search?

Now that sounds like I’m in my own la-la land.  But Jason Alba started me thinking with his blog: http://www.jibberjobber.com/blog/2011/03/31/rethinking-abundance-mentality-job-search-version/ The concept of abundance has been around in many forms throughout many civilizations. Some may know it as ‘living with intention’ or ‘positive thinking.’ When it comes to job search, our emotional strength is criticalContinue reading “Abundance in the job search?”

Change is tough – Stop being miserable.

One of my favorite bloggers has offered us this lovely gift of not only his wisdom but also his poetic talent. In this Seussical tale Kerry Patterson draws from his own experience (and all of us have similar ones!) to stop  perpetuating much of our own misery. You can download this story for yourself orContinue reading “Change is tough – Stop being miserable.”

Most Critical Career Skill – Trend Spotting

“In this era of accelerating change, knowledge alone is no longer the key to a prosperous life. Trend Spotting, or Foresight is the critical skill. Knowledge quickly goes out of date, but foresight enables you to navigate change, make good decisions, and take action now to create a better future.” From the World Future Society’sContinue reading “Most Critical Career Skill – Trend Spotting”

Rethinking Retirement – Boomers and GenX

Where do you fit into the workforce? Today’s organizations are facing challenges like never before with our current demographics. Check out this article for some interesting thoughts for both managing staff as well as your own career.

Are You a Bad Boss?

Most of us don’t think we are a bad boss. The really bad bosses aren’t reading this because they don’t care. Here are 4 clues  of a bad boss.  What would be especially useful would be your ideas on how to help someone be a better boss. (hint: This isn’t always just what the bossContinue reading “Are You a Bad Boss?”

Does it Matter? Is It Interesting? Do I like doing it?

Daniel Pink’s 18 min video on TED.com is a great example of how extrinsic motivators (such as financial incentives) have a narrow band of effectiveness and often work in reverse.  By tapping into the intrinsic motivations of autonomy, mastery and purpose we can change not only how we do business, but how we work towardContinue reading “Does it Matter? Is It Interesting? Do I like doing it?”

New Manager Meeting

A colleague received an unusual e-mail from a new manager of his division: One of the most important responsibilities I have as the [title] is to ensure I help people in achieving their career goals.  I’d like to take some time to meet you and to get to know you, your goals, and how IContinue reading “New Manager Meeting”