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Too often we assume complex problems require complex solutions. However, the best solutions for big and complicated problems are often small and simple. Unfortunately, small and simple answers are frequently rejected. One reason is because of a sophistication bias many of us hold. We believe something simple and easy could never solve something complicated and big. When we refuse a simple solution, we make a big mistake.  Creating clarity by communicating more frequently, showing compassion toward those you lead, or celebrating more often are some simple solutions that can solve complex cultural and personnel problems in the workplace. [...]

Which of the two are more important to your success as a leader and organization: Competition or Compassion?  On the one hand, without a strong desire to compete to be the best, results are often never what they ought to be or could be. This ultimately limits the impact the organization has in the marketplace and on the world. On the other hand, without compassion, bridges can be burned and relationships damaged which can lead to regret and even a lack of long-term consistent performance. Both competition and compassion seem important in business, but how do you choose [...]

In organizations, team members can be placed into three groups. The first is the naysayers or those who are skeptical and cynical about everything in the organization. No matter what is done, they will always be unhappy.     The second group is the undecideds. These are people who are not sure which of the other two groups they should join.  The final group is the supporters or those who believe in what the organization and the leadership team is trying to do. Though they may ask questions, challenge ideas, and offer differing opinions, this group will jump onboard when [...]

How often are you sharing your mission, vision and values?  Once or twice a year? Perhaps quarterly? Maybe once a month?  When asked, most leaders respond that those who work for them know exactly what the mission, vision, and values of their organization are. However when put to the test, most don’t know them.  Why the discrepancy?  Many leaders share something once or twice and then assume everyone has got it when they don’t.  For this reason, repetition is a hallmark of successful leaders. Become comfortable with repeating yourself again and again and again and again.      Leaders who [...]

Inclusion is an important topic that has been on the minds of most leaders and organizations. One question I’ve been asked on multiple occasions is, how do I promote a culture of inclusion? This is a great question. Though there are many ways to promote it in an organization, below are a few ideas that can help. #1 Make Purpose Your Number One When leaders ensure the purpose of the company is clear and everyone on the team is committed to that purpose above all else, inclusion increases. With a strong organizational purpose, leaders in an organization are [...]

Few would argue that we are living in turbulent times. If there is anything I’ve been reminded of over the last 3 months, it is the importance of relationship-based leadership. Relationship-based leadership is characterized by a proactive approach to building relationships of trust with those you lead. It involves taking a genuine interest as well as involvement in the development and well-being of team members.   When things are crazy, this type of leadership trumps others because levels of hope and trust remain high while common distractions such as worry, fear, and stress are minimized. This leads to tasks [...]

When things slow down around the office, sometimes interesting conversations start-up. One recent discussion revolved around leadership traits. The question posed was, if leaders could only have two attributes, what would they need to be in order to have the most success. While there are a lot of admirable traits that could make the list, here are the two I’d want every time.  #1 Humility Being humble is a hallmark of some of the best leaders in history. Self-effacing leaders who appreciate  and recognize those around them build strong teams. When a leader is humble, it leads to [...]

Based on all that has transpired in our country over the last week, here are a few simple thoughts on how each of us can help heal our world and become better leaders and better people.   #1 Admit When We Are Wrong We all make mistakes, however learning to admit when we do is not always easy. When we are willing to say we messed up, it gives others permission to do the same. When we admit we are wrong it also opens the door to unity, understanding, forgiveness, and redemption. Admitting our mistakes can mend broken relationships.         [...]

How do you get those you lead to support a decision that has been made? Explain 'the why' behind it. Leaders make many decisions each day and their ability to get buy-in on those decisions is critical. When people understand 'the why', it gives them knowledge and helps them feel included. Additionally, most of us do not like to work in the dark. Instead we want to be well-informed. Finally, when 'the why' behind a decision is not clear, it is easy to make incorrect assumptions. This can lead to rumors and unnecessary workplace drama. If you’re struggling [...]

“I love it where I work!” How many of your team members would say this about your organization? The answer to this question is becoming more important than many realize. The coronavirus pandemic has done a lot to change our views on work and the world. One that is gaining traction is fewer and fewer people seem to be willing to work for a company that doesn’t value and appreciate their people. Unlike in days past, good talent is examining closely the culture of an organization before deciding to join. They want to know how they will be [...]