February 17, 2012
By admin in Articles, Communications, Execution
Often I listen as executives work through leadership challenges associated with communications and meetings. Issues like needing to communicate more; having the right number and type of meetings; motivating people to arrive on time; involving people in meetings when they’re on the road or away from the office; keeping meetings moving and on task; etc.
Recently I read an article by Rachel Emma Silverman that appeared in the WSJ. I thought it might trigger some meeting ideas that may work for you. One caution … whatever change you may want to make, self-assess your commitment to sustaining the change and making it a habit rather than a one-time event. And, consider whether your decision to change “meeting behaviors” supports or interfere with your culture.
No More Angling for the Best Seat; More Meetings Are Stand-Up Jobs: Companies Ban Sitting to Speed Things Up; Ralph the Chicken Decides Next Speaker
By: Rachel Emma Silverman
Atomic Object, a Grand Rapids, Mich., software-development firm, holds company meetings first thing in the morning. Employees follow strict rules: Attendance is mandatory, nonwork chitchat is kept to a minimum and, above all, … (read more)
– Terrence “TJ” Kelly
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February 3, 2012
By admin in Execution, Executive Coaching, Leadership, Self-Management
High performing executives and leaders sometimes look like problem solving magnets.
As recognized problem solvers, they seem to attract problems from all directions.
The most skilled problem solvers understand the importance of taking time to clearly define the problem and put it in writing before they begin with solutions. This practice creates context for understanding the problem; [...]
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January 20, 2012
By admin in Communications, Executive Coaching, Personal Leadership, Self-Management
Why do some conversations seem so much tougher than others?
It’s not always the content itself. It’s something else.
Sure, the content of the problem you’re discussing has a bearing. So does the urgency around reaching agreement. But there is another factor, less tangible, that adds weight to the conversations.
So, what is it?
Perhaps it’s the emotional content, or [...]
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January 6, 2012
By admin in Executive Coaching, Leadership, Strategy
The dictionary definition may be harsh. And, the term accountability may carry a negative connotation, one of being in trouble; scolding; or punishment. Today, however, accountability seems to be what gets things done in organizations and in business. It’s the nature of delivering promises in the marketplace; satisfying customer commitments; and, meeting partner agreements. It’s [...]
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December 16, 2011
By admin in Goals, Leadership, Teams
Patricia, Vice President of a high-profile property management company, was expressing frustration with the performance of her Business Development Team. “They just don’t work well together.” She explained. “I think we may need some intervention from an outside expert.” There was a thoughtful pause. Then she went on. “We need some team-building exercises so they [...]
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December 2, 2011
By admin in Executive Coaching, Personal Leadership, Self-Management
Having a list of learning questions helps stimulate curiosity and build the leadership habit of continuous learning.
Learning questions are useful for checking oneself and interrupting judgmental reactiveness. They open space for curiosity and natural intelligence. With curiosity comes the search for knowledge and understanding. This ultimately leads to better grounded and more conscious decision making.
Consider [...]
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November 18, 2011
By admin in Executive Coaching, Personal Leadership, Self-Management
Remaining curious broadens perspective; deepens the pool of knowledge; invites better understanding; and, leads to better decision making.
A simple model for self assessing your level of curiosity is to mentally and emotionally replay how you worked through a recent challenge or interaction associated with problem solving or decision-making.
Curiosity: A Model For Self-Assessment
I. Reflect, as [...]
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November 4, 2011
By admin in Executive Coaching, Personal Leadership, Self-Management
One of the benefits of being a leadership coach is having the privilege of working with executives who are committed to making a difference. One trait these talented people often share is their commitment to continuous learning. A trait that seems closely connected with becoming a better leader.
A key to continuous learning is being curious. [...]
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October 21, 2011
By admin in Execution, Self-Management
Imagine being faced with a challenge and having little time to grasp the issues.
Imagine the pressure building and feeling your creative thought processes shut down.
Imagine having no support group in place to broaden your perspective, deepen your understanding, and validate your decision making.
What tools do you turn to?
What practices do you rely on to [...]
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October 7, 2011
By admin in Personal Leadership, Self-Management
Change may depend on how we recognize ourselves as we create and approach opportunities for change.
Standing at the threshold of opportunity allows one to appreciate the possibilities for new experiences and change, but go no further. The onlooker remains trapped by the likes of old habits, fears, beliefs or opinions of others. They look for [...]
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