Articles

Penalty flag on the office decor

January 13, 2021
Q: I’ve been a Washington Redskins fan for most of my life, and my office shows it—posters, helmet, throw-rug, etc. Now that we’re returning to the office, I’m wondering what my employees will think if I don’t remove the “Redskins” motif, now that the team dropped the offensive nickname. I’d like to keep all my memorabilia. What would you do?

Before rejecting an idea, ask 2 questions

January 13, 2021
Let’s say an employee presents an interesting idea for changing a departmental procedure, but your first impression is that it won’t work. Hold off slamming the door on the idea. Instead, take a few minutes or schedule some time later to investigate the idea with its originator—you may end up with an idea you can use.

Teach new supervisors to navigate these tricky danger zones

January 13, 2021
When you have new supervisors to train, you need to educate them on the possible legal pitfalls to avoid. To help them—and your organization—avoid a legal quagmire, guide them through these eight common danger zones.

Make sure messages are understood

January 13, 2021
Communication in the workplace is a two-way street. Both you and your employees have important responsibilities when communicating with each other, whether you’re talking one on one, exchanging emails, or leaving and responding to voicemail messages. Here’s where your duties lie.

3 tips to build an A team

January 13, 2021
Successful teamwork depends on good leadership, but it also requires the right kinds of people. When assembling a team for a special project, a task force, or a new department, keep these tips in mind.

Is your workforce drenched in fear?

January 13, 2021
Strong leaders motivate employees by inspiring and empowering them. Weak ones rule by fear. Which are you? Be on the lookout for these signs that your workplace is overwhelmed by fear.

Lift spirits during tough times

January 13, 2021
Motivation is easy when business is good and your organization is running smoothly. It’s more of a challenge when you hit a rough patch. Here’s how to keep employees motivated when things are going wrong.

Invest resources in the right goals

January 13, 2021
People may be your most important asset, but you’re responsible for managing all your resources wisely: time, money, attention, equipment, etc. You don’t want to waste resources on projects that won’t repay the investment. Here’s how to allocate your efforts wisely.

Train your eye on these indicators

January 13, 2021
If your business fails (whatever business you’re in), everybody suffers. As a leader at any level, you’ve got to concentrate on the fundamentals of success if you want your organization to thrive. Here’s what to pay attention to.

Make people feel important

January 13, 2021
You can’t give every high performer a raise or a promotion, but as a leader you want to help them feel valued in your organization. What to do?