People Management

Time pressure and creativity

February 22, 2018

Even though research on the relation between time pressure and creativity remains muddled, a few things started to become clear as early as 2002, according to a 10-year study by Harvard business professor Teresa Amabile.

When the trust is gone

February 16, 2018

Q. I’ve lost trust in one of my employees. He’s acted in ways that make me think he’s unreliable and possibly a liar. But he’s technically very good at his job and I’d prefer not to lose him. Is it possible to have someone on your team who’s proficient at his work, but untrustworthy? I mean, everyone lies sometimes, right?

Step back so others step up

February 9, 2018

Employees who reach their potential need the space to thrive. If you micromanage them, they may stop making decisions, suggesting ideas and taking prudent risks.

Terminate poor performer sooner, not later

February 9, 2018

“When you lose a dear friend, it’s painful. But I felt the quicker, the better. ”

Lift newcomers to higher level

February 8, 2018

It’s not enough to hire stars. Once they’re aboard, you must create the right environment to maximize their performance.

Bridge gaps with wise questions

February 7, 2018

Conflict intensifies when groups seek to innovate or navigate organizational change. That’s why it’s critical to lead with questions—to explore rather than lecture and argue. Follow these tips.

Ensure staff applies your feedback

January 25, 2018
Make sure employees walk away from performance conversations, feeling confident and knowing exactly how to meet your expectations. Follow this advice.

Demystify the role of mentor

January 22, 2018

Mentors contribute their skills, expertise and experience as a gift. They may also wield their influence to open doors for mentees to gain career opportunities. What’s in it for the mentor?

Reclaim the lost art of conversation

January 19, 2018

With so many of us looking at our smartphones, it’s almost quaint to have a face-to-face conversation. Yet there’s no replacement for looking into someone’s eyes and establishing a bond.

De-stress a co-worker during volatile times

January 16, 2018

Q. The nature of our business is up and down. All the volatility makes it fun for me, but some members of our team aren’t very good at handling the uncertainty. They get frazzled and don’t deal well with sudden lulls and surges in activity. Are there ways to help people take volatility in stride?