Picture this situation that I’ve regularly observed over the years. A CEO is discussing an issue with some people within the organisation. It’s a novel problem with no obvious answers. They’re wrestling with it, thinking it through and trying to work out together what to…
Difficult conversations are called that for a reason. They’re painful—for you and the other person. Here’s how to make them suck a bit less: First: your goal isn’t to make the conversation painless. It’s to be honest, clear, and respectful while staying true to what…
Dreading sharing some bad news with a team member? Here’s 3 steps to approach it 👇. If you have bad news to share with someone, the kind and effective way to do it is directly and with compassion. Don’t beat around the bush or procrastinate.…
To create exceptional work, learn from the Japanese art of flower arranging, Ikebana. Ikebana exemplifies elegant simplicity. It is all about keeping things simple. Less is more. Practitioners focus on removing extra elements, understanding that what is left out is just as important as what’s…
Very polite leaders tend to be less effective. Whereas highly respectful leaders perform better. Here’s why… Imagine a situation where someone isn’t doing a good job. Now, imagine it was you. What would you want your manager to do? Be polite and say nothing, in…
What we learn at work about relationships often helps in our personal lives too. And vice versa. Leadership is fundamentally about developing strong and healthy relationships with other people. Because, organisations are social structures. At their core, they’re a collection of interpersonal relationships. Both in…
I don’t know your team, but I know they can’t read your mind. I often speak to managers who’re frustrated that their people aren’t doing what they need them to. Me: “Have you told them exactly what you need from them?” Them: “Well, I’ve spoken…
Early in my management career, there was a person in my team who dressed inappropriately for work. It was an issue, because they often met with clients and hence weren’t representing our company in a way consistent with our brand and values. It was also…
Can you trust someone who only tells you good things? I don’t think so. Here’s why and what it means for leaders. If someone is only sharing good news with you (including feedback on your performance, opportunities you’re seeking or anything else that could personally…