Character

Meet the new boss, humbler than the old boss

March 14, 2019
Q. I’m taking over a company and soon I’ll have to get up before 400 people, greet them and explain my vision. But what is the very first thing I need to say up on that podium?

“I want honest feedback!”

January 10, 2019
The number of us who truly want it straight is far smaller than those of us who claim to.

Sound Bites: January ’19

January 1, 2019
How’s your welcome committee? … Ditch the shades … Time to bow out … Want your luggage handled more gently by the airline? … Did you know the “ribbon” sticking out of a Hershey’s Kiss has a name?

Just because it’s the year’s end, that doesn’t mean you have to summarize it

December 13, 2018
You may be tempted at an office holiday party to say a few words about the business end of things, mentioning what was accomplished this year—but now is not the time.

4 ways to annoy strangers fast

November 29, 2018
You don’t want to come across as annoying or rude when you meet people for the first time. So, if you are interacting with a new group, whether it is a new work team or strangers at a social event, avoid these behaviors.

Stop dishing out advice and start listening!

November 20, 2018
There are many things to be said about venting and releasing one’s angst or frustration through dialogue. In fact, the most important thing to be said is what is actually being said during this dialogue!

5 scary actions that haunt your reputation

November 8, 2018
While many professionals believe they are perceived as uber-professionals, they don’t realize how all of the mistakes they make cost them influence. Uncover the hidden mistakes you make that frighten off your ability to influence others.

What do people want from your apology?

November 8, 2018
When the inevitable screwup happens on your watch, don’t craft your apology without knowing which words will do the trick and which won’t.

1-Minute Strategies: December ’18

November 1, 2018
When  “new” and “final” have no meaning … Test-drive your new favorite font … Birds in Gilbert, Minnesota might get FUIs … Cuba’s intelligence service might want to try some new techniques … Do you have “Snapchat dysmorphia”?

The passion of the bad forklift driver

October 11, 2018
Is your pride a thing you sometimes guard too fiercely? Are you willing to risk some of it to achieve more?