“What time management tips do you have?” I am asked this more and more often by consulting clients and our Smith School Executive MBAs. The pace of work seems to get crazier all the time and email is totally out of control. The issue is broader than “managing time” at work. As I talk with people, what they are really interested in is how to have higher levels of … [Read more...] about Save Time, Increase Energy, Focus Purpose
performance
SMART v. 2.0, Aggressive Goals
This blog looks at another “A-word” to fill out the SMART recipe in which the other letters are Specific, Measurable, Relevant, Time-Bound. Last time we looked at “Attainable" goals as an “A” option. While there are some good reasons to use “Attainable” goals, I pointed out that one important finding from the goal research is: The more difficult the goal, the higher the … [Read more...] about SMART v. 2.0, Aggressive Goals
Panic Sooner!
It is an easy trap to fall into. We are all very busy and tend to focus on the issues that seem to require the most immediate attention today. And sometimes we don’t look out far enough – even six, nine, twelve months – to notice trends of importance. And then all of a sudden – panic strikes!!! And last minute panic is usually not very effective. One of the great tips … [Read more...] about Panic Sooner!
Great Tools for Setting Outcomes
I have been giving the same speech for about fifteen years on the importance of nonprofits setting outcome measures – both for programs and at the organizational level. When a Board asks itself “How do we know we are making a difference?” there needs to be some kind of reliable measure that provides the answer. Inevitably, though, when I give this “speech” someone says “But … [Read more...] about Great Tools for Setting Outcomes
Improve Your “Tribe’s” Performance
Interestingly enough, focusing your organization’s “tribe” on your values can actually lead to higher levels of performance. It makes sense when you think about it. Imagine that an organization has clearly answered the questions “Why are we here? & What do we stand for?” – and that this is widely understood among the staff and key volunteers; your “tribe.” Establishing … [Read more...] about Improve Your “Tribe’s” Performance