Guest article by Janet Foutty When I began my career at Deloitte three decades ago, I didn’t have a 30-year plan. I didn’t even have a 3-year plan! As an idealistic and energetic, yet indecisive, business school graduate, I tried consulting to discover what I liked and what I was good at. After 30 years in professional services, what ultimately guided my journey within the … [Read more...]
Are You Talking Too Much?
By Kevin Eikenberry You've got questions and we've got answers. Hi, I'm Kevin Eikenberry, answering the questions that new leaders ask us. Actually, it's our goal to help all leaders be more productive, successful, and confident. Today, I am answering a question about how much leaders talk. Are you ready? Let's get started. Lots of leaders have asked me this question: … [Read more...]
When the Pull of the Past Creates Problems in the Present
By Guy Harris Many things change when you become a supervisor. Your responsibilities, daily routines, role in the organization, and relationships all change – practically overnight. In the middle of all that is changing, it is easy to miss or overlook the things that do not change – even if you would like it if they did. There are many things in your team, organization, and … [Read more...]
The 4 Leadership Styles that Separate the Best Leaders from the Rest
Guest post by Robert Jordan Your frame of reference affects your perceptions. For example, take four friends—an architect, a chef, a graphic designer, and a financial analyst—and sit them down around a table on launch day at the hottest new restaurant in town. When asked to describe their experience, chances are: The architect might note the structure of … [Read more...]
Flight Instructor and Gardener
Guest post by Mike Fransen Wings and Roots… those are two of the key ingredients my wife, Stacey, and I were instructed to help grow in our two daughters in route to launching them successfully into the world. Developed wings help us reach and dream beyond where our gifts and talents otherwise might alone take us. Deep roots ensure we always remain anchored in … [Read more...]
5 Ways to Make Your Reading More Meaningful
By Kevin Eikenberry Have you ever heard someone say (or maybe you have said or thought it yourself): “That book changed my life.” While I do believe reading is important, I believe that statement is, by definition, false. A book cannot change your life (or my life). Only you can make that change. There are many books that have had an impact on my life as a … [Read more...]
5 Easy Ways to Accidentally Make Your Employees Hate You
Guest post by Indiana Lee Being a good leader is no easy task. You’re responsible for helping your employees reach their goals, fostering a positive workplace environment, and pushing for productivity without alienating anyone. Finding a management style that works for you is important; however, your style should never come at the expense of employee happiness. You might … [Read more...]
Why Taking Time for Yourself Will Make You a Better Leader
Guest post by Dr. Dennis O'Neil and Greg Hiebert When you’re a new leader, it can be easy to let self-care fall to the bottom of the list of priorities, but actually, it needs to remain near the top. Self-care, to some, may feel indulgent—as though you are neglecting other priorities for selfish reasons. In caring for your body, mind, heart, and spirit, you actually … [Read more...]
Be Nice: It’s a Leadership Skill
By Kevin Eikenberry I have noticed a theme in my life, and this theme has a great deal to do with your ability to lead your team successfully. The theme is stated simply on a t-shirt that I have that I wore at Halloween. It said: "Just Be Nice" I love the shirt and the message because I believe that we all need to be reminded sometimes of the importance of … [Read more...]
5 Ways You Can Recharge: Mind, Spirit, and Productivity
By Kevin Eikenberry Experts say that people are truly complex bundles of energy. Therefore, it makes sense to think about how we can manage, use, and increase the amount of energy in our bodies and minds. Why? Because when we are better energy managers, we can create better results in all areas of our lives. The topic of personal energy is much larger than can be covered … [Read more...]