Early in my career, I worked in the plastics industry as a process and product development engineer. At the time, I had a degree in chemical engineering, and I had just completed service as a nuclear engineering officer in the U.S. Navy. I had a pretty good technical background, and I knew almost nothing about polymers. This lack of knowledge created a bit of a problem for … [Read more...]
Beyond The Bickering: 5 Steps to Resolving Conflict In Teams
This is a guest post by Jono Bacon, founder of Jono Bacon Consulting. You can run the most efficient, well-run company in the world, packed with eager team members clad in your branded hoodies, but at some point, conflict is going to rear its ugly head. I have worked with team members who clashed over their contributions to a shared project, with team leads who have battled … [Read more...]
What if the Know-It-All Doesn’t Know?
Do you have a "know-it-all" on your team? Chances are you do. What should you do when it becomes apparent he/she doesn't actually know it all? https://youtu.be/r99DRHOIvW8?rel=0&showinfo=0 Tweet it out: When the know-it-all doesn't know all, be careful with their ego as you clarify the facts. You are trying to get the information, not win a game. @KevinEikenberry … [Read more...]
Don’t Forget This Resolution for 2020
2020 is almost here, and we have another opportunity to build new skills and improve weaknesses. So what should you focus on this year? According to Andrew Sobel, creator of the masterclass Building Relationships That Matter, 2020 should be all about developing strong relationships. Why? Because when you can't make real connections with others in the workplace, you struggle … [Read more...]
Last-Minute Shopping List for New Leaders
When I look back on the Christmases of my childhood, I have lots of fond memories. I remember when I got my Hot Wheels track, all shiny and orange (the loop-to-loop was amazing). I remember when I got my rock tumbler that I wanted so badly (but barely used). I remember my electric football game (with the Joe Namath action figure). I remember my slot hockey table (and how … [Read more...]