Posted: April 28, 2015 | Categories: Leadership, Management

When we think of great leaders, we marvel at their ability to enlist commitment from their team members.  When we are committed, we are in with our heart and soul.  Commitment is great!…but sometimes, even on the best teams, we have to settle for less.Read More…

Posted: March 26, 2015 | Categories: Leadership, Team Building

Championship teams know this secret, but I am going to snitch:  If you want to be the best, learn how to create structural tension in your team. Read More…

Posted: March 3, 2015 | Categories: Leadership, Team Building

Have you ever had a bad day at work?  If you have, there is a good chance that your frustration was sparked by your boss or a co-worker.  It could have been something they said, or didn’t say, or did or didn’t do.  Whatever the irritation, you let it affect your day.

In my coaching and team building, I frequently come across team members who challenge each other’s patience.  Would you like to know a secret?  Attitudes leak!Read More…

Posted: December 29, 2014 | Categories: Leadership, Management, Team Building

I am going to pretend I have ESP, and I will describe exactly what it is like to work for your company or the company you work for:  As each day begins, every individual on the team comes in positive, smiling, and excited to get to work.  They have their day planned and they know exactly what they should be doing.  They are always working on the most important task, and are not distracted by the internet, sports news, or gossip.  Not only does their company meet their goals, they CRUSH them!  When obstacles occur, you and your team quickly overcome them.  There is no finger-pointing or blame.  When you and your team are finished with your work, you are proud of what you have accomplished.  Most important, when each member of your team comes home after work, they feel good about what they have accomplished and their loved ones know how much they love their job.

For some of you, this sketch may accurately describe the experience people have working for your company.  For others…maybe not quite.  I have the privilege of working with companies that operate just as this model describes.  The good news is we can all be that special company.  Here is what all great companies do:Read More…

Posted: December 11, 2014 | Categories: Leadership, Self-Improvement

“An insincere grin?  No. That doesn’t fool anybody.  We know it is mechanical and we resent it.  I am talking about a real smile, a heartwarming smile, a smile that comes from within” – Dale Carnegie

A few days ago I attended a seminar hosted by a trade association.  For most events that I attend I know some people.  For this particular event I was a stranger in the crowd.  That changed quickly. Read More…