"I hate conflict!" I hear it all the time. It's an all too common statement from leaders and non-leaders alike. The strong preference is to 'resolve' conflict and promote harmony. If that's you - you're missing the boat. If you don't have the skill of conflict "promotion" in your leadership toolbox, you won't be optimally effective. In fact, I'll take it even … [Read more...]
There are holes in your Leadership Potential you don’t even know about!
Most of you don't think twice when you need to stay late for work. You don't bat an eye when you sequester yourself with colleagues tirelessly working to hammer out a mission statement, set of values or long-term strategy. You are ready and willing to jump into fire-fighting mode to resolve a pressing issue even if it's 4:45 p.m. That's Leadership right? That's what you do … [Read more...]
I know you are a Leader, but do you have an Identity?
It’s easy to declare, “I’m a leader.” It’s much harder to transition from Leader-as-a-Label to Leader-as-an-Identity. Too many simply add “Leader” to their LinkedIn profile, but don’t appreciate the work is just beginning! Unfortunately, all too often efforts to refine and hone your identify as a Leader get buried. The demands of the day easily push this important, but not … [Read more...]
Are you sure you’re a “Team Player?”
"You are not a team player!" In most organizations these are fighting words. No one wants to get brushed with this reputation! Much too often we use "Team" as this broad, self-defining term. It is as if the word says it all and clearly infers a set of behaviors and expectations. It doesn't. All too often I see a Leader with a Team to manage, but he/she doesn't define the … [Read more...]
Why (and How) Leaders Must Give More Than They Receive
As a Leader - you are on a professional Journey. You deliberately separated from the pack such that others empower and trust you to lead, guide, direct and/or organize their activities. As a leader, it is your responsibility to facilitate the development of your employees. You must foster, nurture and support each employee's unique goals, dreams and aspirations. This is not … [Read more...]