Are YOU an Inspiring Leader?
I just returned from a visit to the Pacific Northwest. Our destination was Friday Harbor in the San Juan Islands. I have a sister there who lives on a lovely boat and we had a “sister’s retreat” with a third sister and niece joining us. This was a very beautiful and inspiring time and place. … Continue reading
A New and Clever Way to Make an Emotional Connection: Don’t Pick Up Your Smartphone
One of the things we know from the studies we’ve done on inspiring leaders is that they are able to develop strong emotional connections with those they lead. We see them do that in a variety of ways. One of the most important is to show concern and consideration; it’s an effective way to let … Continue reading
10 Ways to Pull, Rather than Push, for Results
There are two very different ways to achieve results. The most common approach used by leaders to achieve results is characterized by the competency “Drive for Results.” Leaders who drive for results might be describes as follows: Does everything possible to achieve a goal or objective. Is able to achieve goals and objective on time … Continue reading
Inspiration vs. Empty Cheerleading: The One Word That Makes All the Difference
We’ve all been in situations where we’re facing a difficult task or tight deadline and a well-intentioned manager or colleague says something like the following: “You can do this.” “I’m sure you’ll be great.” “I’m confident you can do the job.” “You’ll get through this.” “Don’t worry, I know you’ll do just fine.” When we … Continue reading
4 Steps to Better Your Boss-Employee Relationship
Recently I was chatting with a colleague about strangers, acquaintances, and friends. For me, it’s incredibly easy to talk about pretty much anything with either a complete stranger or a really great friend. It’s talking with acquaintances where the conversation gets awkward or superficial. When two acquaintances meet, by chance, in the company breakroom, a … Continue reading
How to Inspire Employee Innovation without Stifling Bonuses
One of the great mixed messages of modern business is the cry for more innovation from employees, accompanied by policies and cultures that systematically squash it. Here is an example of a typical conversation I’ve experienced with managers who are concerned about their teams lack of innovation. Manager: “What can we do to help our employees be … Continue reading
Why Smithers Picked Me . . .
In his typical upside-down thinking, the popular cartoon character Homer Simpson once observed, “I think Smithers picked me because of my motivational skills. Everyone says they have to work a lot harder when I’m around.” I don’t think Homer quite gets it. He is confusing obligation with inspiration. When Homer is “on the job,” his … Continue reading
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