Play Ball! Those are two very fun words that confirm it is summertime. Pools are open, Little League is in full swing, and it is time that you remember you have an inner child. Let him/her come out to play! Yes - even at "work." When I think of being “childlike,” I think of words such as . . . Wonder Enthusiasm Kindness … [Read more...] about Let Your Inner Child Play
teamwork
How Your Team Can Build Trust
Trust is a key element in both leadership effectiveness and high performing teamwork. Here is how your team can build trust and continue to improve your performance, based on a recent article in Harvard Business Review: 1. Don’t Leave Collaboration to Chance. Once you have a project identified, take time to consider what needs to be done and the talents required by the … [Read more...] about How Your Team Can Build Trust
“Not Your Style?”
People love to talk about their leadership style. “I’m a visionary.” “I’m hands on.” “I like to empower people and get out their way.” None of these are necessarily bad ideas. However, when it comes to leading a team . . . It’s not about you. It’s about what your team needs. This is where the classic, though not used enough, Situational Leadership approach … [Read more...] about “Not Your Style?”
Improve Your Active Listening
Staying quiet and nodding your head is not enough! In order to be an effective, active listener we need to listen purely for comprehension – without an agenda! Wow – that is not easy. But it is important. Research shows that people who engage in active listening are considered to be more trustworthy, competent, and likable. Here are some excellent thoughts from Amy … [Read more...] about Improve Your Active Listening
Get the Best Ideas from Your Team
You have an amazing, brilliant team! How do nurture the best ideas from them? First, create a safe environment and a trusting culture for your team. Role model this by being honest and respectful. Once you have a trusting team, then you can set the norm of “constructive conflict” in which people are expected to respectfully debate ideas. These are bedrock actions … [Read more...] about Get the Best Ideas from Your Team