Posts Tagged With ‘ mentoring ’

There’s an old saying in the sales world. “The confused mind says NO.” Clearly that has big implications when trying to sell a product or service. A prospect who gets confused by your sales pitch will revert to a NO answer all the time. On the other hand, a clear, concise explanation of the thing you are trying to sell will help close the deal. The same is true of leadership responsibility. A confused mind says NO. If you confuse the people around you, the overall performance will be greatly reduced or even eliminated. An employee’s willingness to perform is centered on their ability... Continue Reading

A few years ago I wrote a piece contrasting the “cool breeze” and the “fog machine”, whimsically (at least my attempt at whimsy) to illustrate extreme possibilities in the way a leader can show up at work. I think It’s time to delve deeper into that idea (minus the whimsy part). While the “Cool Breeze” and “Fog Machine” personalities capture a fundamental aspect of workplace dynamics, the reality presents a more nuanced spectrum. Let’s dive deeper and explore the shades in between: The Gentle Breeze: Similar to the “Cool Breeze,” these individuals are positive and solution-oriented.... Continue Reading

People talk about charismatic leaders having “big” personalities. Powerful leaders are often known as “Type A” personalities. We know about introverts and extroverts. But how does personality really impact your effectiveness as a manager or owner of a business? If we take away celebrity status from high paid CEOs and public figures, what else does personality have to do with how you run a business? For starters, I will argue LOTS! Anyone choosing to start a business or get promoted into management must face the challenge of influencing the people around them. Before you open your mouth... Continue Reading

We often imagine leadership as a grand production. Spotlight moments, heroic decisions, and sweeping pronouncements come to mind. But what if the key to building a truly impactful reputation isn’t found in these blockbuster scenes? What if it lies in the quiet, seemingly insignificant interactions that fill our daily lives? The truth is, leadership isn’t a one-time performance; it’s an ongoing narrative woven from countless threads. Each conversation, each decision, each gesture contributes to the tapestry of how you’re perceived by those around you. These small moments, not the big events,... Continue Reading

In the grand theatre of leadership, there’s a delicate dance playing out on the main stage: the display of expertise. On one hand, we have the confident captains, radiating knowledge like beacons, guiding their teams through uncharted waters. On the other, lurk the know-it-alls, tripping over their own pronouncements, leaving trails of deflated egos and resentful whispers in their wake. The key, then, lies not in shunning expertise, but in mastering a crucial art form: leading with humility. Humility in leadership isn’t about shrinking your brilliance or dimming your light. It’s about harnessing... Continue Reading

In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of business, management plays a pivotal role in determining the success or failure of an organization. Management-run businesses, where a team of experienced and qualified professionals oversees operations, have emerged as a prevalent and effective model for achieving organizational goals. This article delves into the intricacies of management-run businesses, exploring their defining characteristics, advantages, and challenges. Defining Management-Run Businesses Many small businesses are run by the owner/founder. While great stories of success have come from... Continue Reading

This is a recent post by a good friend and fellow coach, Mike Lejeune. Mike is a senior HR professional who has coached and mentored hundreds of key officers across a wide variety of industries. He hosts his own blog called “Simple Leadership“. Here is his post. On most Fridays, Tommie, my wife, and I grab dinner and a movie to wind down from the hectic pace of trying to run our own businesses balanced with church and civic obligations. She has wanted to see “A Better Life” for weeks but it kept sliding to the bottom of the selection list. I’m glad it finally made it to the top because... Continue Reading

Most managers get their start because they were good workers. They get recognized as being the best performer on the team. There is nothing wrong with that, except… Being a good manager requires a level of leadership. Without the right training and development, you might find that being a manager is a struggle. “Management is about process. Leadership is about people.” To reach your leadership potential, you need to be a fearless, bold, and effective coach. But where do you start? Check out these 7 strategies that will help you become the manager your employees (and company) need you to... Continue Reading

Operating outside of your comfort zone is like stepping into uncharted territory. It requires taking risks, facing uncertainty, and pushing yourself beyond your limits. While it may seem daunting, operating out of your comfort zone can lead to personal growth, new opportunities, and a sense of achievement. We all face moments in our lives when we are looking over the edge of the known into the valley of the unknown. Think about changing jobs, moving/relocating, changing relationships, or being assigned a new role at work. It also applies to those who may be buying or selling a business. Making... Continue Reading

In every company, there are two types of organizations that operate simultaneously: formal and informal. One is officially recognized, while the other is more organic and often difficult to detect. Understanding the differences between these two organizations is crucial for managers and CEOs, as it can help them navigate complex social structures, increase communication and collaboration, and ultimately, achieve their organization’s goals. In this blog post, we will compare and contrast the formal vs. informal organization within a company so that you can better understand how to manage both... Continue Reading