People Management

How to fight ‘defensive thinking’

February 2, 2017
If others are making claims designed to keep you from testing their validity, you’ll know that defensive thinking is going on.

2 questions a leader should ask

January 28, 2017
The appeal of Robert F. Kennedy to laborers like coal miners and farm workers wasn’t based solely on ideas and speeches.

Inject life into your message

January 23, 2017
For Julie Sweet, talking works better than writing—at least when she’s trying to connect with employees.

Stage confrontations that pay off

January 16, 2017
Before you confront a rude person, devise a sound strategy.

What’s your period/question mark ratio?

January 13, 2017

As an executive coach, I was working with Phil, director of finance for his company. He shared frustrations he was having with one of his staff accountants, Melinda. “She gets defensive so easily,” he said. “I have trouble speaking with her about performance issues.” I suggested we do a role play…

2 vital ways to build trust

January 9, 2017
The best leaders engender trust and come across as straight shooters who seem comfortable in their own skin.

Have job candidates try out

January 9, 2017
Hiring tips from the book Work Rules! by former Google HR chief Laszlo Bock.

Want unity? Plug the generational gap

January 7, 2017
In a diverse workplace, you may make repeated attempts to get four generations of employees to work together seamlessly. Good luck with that.

What to do with a chronic latecomer

December 22, 2016
Q: I’ve got a perfectly good employee with one annoying habit: He’s chronically late for meetings. I’ve repeatedly asked him why. I get excuses, not answers. I’ve started to disinvite him to meetings, but then he complains that he’s left out. Help!

Reframe stressful talks in fun terms

December 20, 2016
Don’t let problem-solving discussions dissolve into gripe sessions.