In the late 1990s, researchers from the University of Maryland teamed up with the University of Würzburg in Germany to study the creative mind. What promotes human creativity? What inhibits it? How strong are those influences? These were but a few of the many questions they set out to answer. The results of their work speak volumes to our continuing and ever-increasing understanding of the importance of mindset and the…
Flu shots are big right now. An inevitable wave of symptoms is expected to hit the workplace, and your managers are understandably concerned. One well-situated sneeze and an entire work team could be calling in sick by the end of the week. One thing you DON’T want to inoculate your staff from, however, is the persistently contagious bug of good synergy. Wait, you say. Is synergy contagious? Yes, say the…
As a leadership coach I get asked often what leaders should say and do when speaking to staff in their organization. This is no surprise; even the best leaders get a bit shy at the microphone. Depending on the client, my suggestions may vary, but here are some general rules I’ve shared over the years that have yet to let anyone down. Be a Storyteller Visit any bookstore and you…
“Leave nothing unsaid” may seem an odd piece of advice for a leadership and management column. In today’s media rich world – where words can be quickly immortalized and just as quickly regretted – the fear to keep silent and reserved may be high. Sage voices of the past have often suggested discretion and wisdom over hasty expression, such as this from Benjamin Franklin: “Remember not only to say the…
Communication is key “Did I wake you?” “No, I’ve been awake for a bit,” I say. A friend is on the phone. He’s an attorney. “Good. I don’t have court until 8 a.m., but I’m already here,” he says. It’s 7 a.m. “I’m catching up on my voicemail and writing a few notes to myself.” We chat for a moment, toss a few project ideas back and forth, share an…
“It is within our power to be unconquerable.” Seneca (4 B.C. – 65 A.D.). When Roman philosopher Seneca spoke these words, he was referring neither to our bodies nor our positions in life. He was referring to the power of our minds. Stoicism was a way of life for Seneca, and he taught it to all who would listen. Stoicism is the practical everyday philosophy of virtue and self-discipline introduced by the…
What influence does an inspirational speech about company mission and vision from a CEO have on the ethical behavior of employees? According to the research, a great deal. Transformational leadership, the practice of influencing the behavior of others to implement monumental change and new direction using a synergistic style of engagement and team building, is highly touted for its positive results. Mention just a few role models of transformational leadership…