You honestly appreciate your team and you probably think that they know it. You are probably wrong. According to research reported in Harvard Business Review*, many leaders incorrectly assume that the team they work with know how they feel about them. They call this an “illusion of transparency.” In other words, no – people cannot read your mind; or your heart. Here … [Read more...] about Build a Culture of Appreciation
Inspiration
Audacious Visions
Your organization may be going through some very challenging times right now. In the midst of uncertainty and challenge, a Vision for the future is ever more important. The most powerful Visions are developed by asking stakeholders about their dreams and aspirations, and then crafting a Vision that reflects that and inspires them. Visions look beyond the current … [Read more...] about Audacious Visions
Prahalad’s Leadership Lessons
C. K. Prahalad (1941-2010) was a brilliant professor, consultant, and business leader. The other day I came across an old article he wrote in Harvard Business Review – these ideas are timeless: *Understand the importance of nonconformity. Leadership is about change, hope, and the future. *Display a commitment to learning and developing yourself. Leaders must invest in … [Read more...] about Prahalad’s Leadership Lessons
True Joy for the Holidays
It’s a time of the year meant for joy and celebration. But what do we really mean when we ask, “Are you ready for the holidays?” When visiting family, frantic shopping and financial pressures extend our to-do lists during the holiday season, it seems that more people spend time bracing for impact, rather than kicking back and enjoying. The anticipation of holidays is now … [Read more...] about True Joy for the Holidays
Your Purpose Promise
Two young twenty-somethings were talking with me about their jobs not so long ago. They were each working for good firms and felt they were well compensated. However, neither felt very inspired by the “purpose” of the company. I have heard the same thing from people of a wide variety of ages. How can organizations establish and communicate “purpose” effectively? Many … [Read more...] about Your Purpose Promise