Tag Archives: Leadership

How Managers Can Support Employees in Times of Tragedy

Close-up of individuals standing side by side, with a prominent focus on two people holding hands, showcasing unity and support. The background features blurred figures, also holding hands down the line.

As managers, it is important to be aware of the potential impact of tragic events on our employees, especially in the aftermath of recent shootings, natural disasters, or other tragic events. These events can flood our news feeds and can have a significant effect on the mental and emotional well-being of our team members. When

An Introverted Manager’s Roadmap to Recognizing and Celebrating Team Wins

A close-up shot of a white man's hand resting on the shoulder of another white man wearing a dark suit, with a soft focus on the background that hints at a well-lit environment.

I was working with an IT manager for a small nonprofit, and while he cared about the team members reporting to him, he wondered sometimes if they didn’t deserve a manager who could pump them up, Ted Lasso style. Fortunately we were able to find ways he could be his authentic self at work and

Accountability: use the FORD method to get traction

A diverse spread of dishes on a table including a large grilled fish, assorted meats, sliced bread, stir-fried noodles with vegetables, and a vibrant fresh salad in a bowl. Nearby are utensils and a person wearing red is partially visible in the background.

When something goes wrong, it’s easy to look for someone to blame. Accountability doesn’t always have to be reactive (see here for my thoughts on proactively managing accountability). But simply pointing fingers doesn’t solve the problem. The FORD Method helps us dig deeper to find out why things went wrong, and how to make them

How to Have Connected and Clear 1:1s With Team Members

Good managers have regular 1:1 meetings with their team members, but it isn’t always easy to crack the code on how to do these meetings well. They have to be more than just a checkbox on your weekly to-do list, and they can be your ticket to building stronger relationships and understanding your team. Remember

What Radical Candor Really Means

Leadership isn’t just about making the big calls or navigating stormy waters. It’s about being genuine, authentic, and straightforward. Let me tell you what I mean by that. Imagine you’re sitting down with a friend over coffee. You want to share something vital, not to criticize but to help them grow. Now, if you’re really

Surround Yourself With People Who Have This Important but Extraordinary Quality

Abstract illustration of several individuals performing different actions on two juxtaposed platforms. On the left platform, an elder man observes through binoculars while two men joyfully jump and celebrate. On the right platform, a woman energetically dashes with a folder in hand, while another woman stands reading a document. Beneath the platforms, a giant hand seems to offer support or guidance

Alright, let’s break this down like we’re sitting across from each other at a coffee shop, discussing the kind of people you want on your team. Picture this: You’re building your dream team, your personal Avengers, if you will. You’ve got the geniuses, the strategists, and the action takers. But there’s a secret ingredient that’s

How To Give Yourself A Golden Ticket

Busy multiethnic partners working together in a meeting room. Business people gathered to discuss some urgent matters. Group of creative businessmen and casual businesswomen discussing a new project in the office.

Let’s get real for a moment. If I asked you to paint a picture of a smart person, chances are you might dream up a character who’s a wizard at math problems or maybe someone spitting out hefty words left and right. But let’s shake that image off. True intelligence? It’s not about sounding sophisticated.

To Craft a Super Squad, Look for These Doers

Imagine you’re gathering your dream team, like building your own superhero squad. What makes your squad stand out? Well, it’s the people in it. They’ve got your back, elevate you, and basically, make you want to be the best version of yourself. Here’s a simple truth: To have an extraordinary squad, you need to be

Communicate Clear Standards with Compassion

Do you need to have THAT TALK with a member of your team? You have a team member who seems to be acting out of self-interest rather than supporting the goals of the team. There are alternatives to putting the foot down or insisting, “If you don’t start doing what you’re supposed to be doing,