Being middle-aged means compromising physical attributes (think wrinkles and saggy bits) for the benefits of wisdom and emotional well-being. It's a trade-off that I've accepted: that despite the aching joints and crinkly skin, I can look forward to a radiant glow of self-awareness and wisdom. Ommm. So it was just a bit disconcerting to learn that experience does not equate to self-awareness. In … [Read more...]
Self-awareness, leadership & tramping!
I went tramping last weekend to Lake Angelus in the Nelson Lakes National Park (for those who haven't been there, it is stunning!). Within my family, my usual role when it comes to organising a trip away is limited to packing the food and the kid's clothes. And boy, have I got those packing skills down! This time was different though. This time it was just about me - no kids! I had to think … [Read more...]
It's time to replace the 'sink or swim' strategy for our new leaders
In one of the biggest ironies on the planet, we tell people "You’re so good at your job that we’re now going to give you another role (where you don’t do the stuff you’re really good at anymore). "Instead, we're going to promote you to a role where you teach others how to do your job." But here’s the catch. "Even though you may have spent years learning your trade or profession, we’re just going … [Read more...]
Be a Better Communicator
Want to be a better communicator? It all starts with listening. Do you listen with the intent to understand or the intent to answer? It takes emotional fortitude to phone a government department. It’s a bit like a mission I choose to accept, a challenge to overcome, a game that I want to win. It all started with an application to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). I … [Read more...]
Don’t leave them guessing – tips for giving feedback
There’s a saying that ‘the culture of an organisation is shaped by the worst behaviour the leader is willing to tolerate' And let’s face it, most leaders would rather clean the bathroom than give constructive feedback. However, feedback, when delivered well, builds culture and performance within your team. People need to know how they’re doing and feedback gives people direction on the … [Read more...]
'Mood based’ working areas which eliminate a designated desk and chair, an emphasis on wellness and healthy working environments, blurred boundaries between home and work are all characteristics of the future of our working environment. Gone are the days of arriving at your office desk at 8am to start work, morning tea in the staff tea room at 10am, lunch at 12 and home at 5pm. Skype conversations … [Read more...]
Language Matters
There's a part of me that dies inside when I hear cliches. Business ideas described as a 'gap in the market' (seriously?), managers who talk about 'going forward' (it's quite difficult to go backwards), or 'blue skies thinking' (translated = I have no idea how to solve this problem). Cliches are overused expressions which lack originality of thought and clarity of intent. I'd rather spend time … [Read more...]
What makes a good team?
We're genetically wired to be part of a team - whether it's a work team, a family or a sport's team. We depend on building a team for success and happiness. So, why do we find them so difficult? The chart gives some clues. In a team of 2 people, one connection or relationship is required. For 3 people, 3 connections are required. So far, so good. But by 5 people, the connections required double … [Read more...]
E-learning – A Personal Encounter
Bob Lavigna. Jim Kouzes. Hardly household names and when pitched against names like Richie McCaw and Dan Carter they are hardly a blip on the radar. Nevertheless, unlike the English rugby team, they are my heros. Bob Lavigna led the research on employee engagement - a progression from 'job satisfaction' of the 1970's to 'commitment' (1980's) to 'engagement' (1990's) ; that guides leadership … [Read more...]
How to Actually Engage Employees
Last month we shared our whitepaper on The Benefits of Engaged Employees : a compilation of research to show that having highly engaged employees leads to greater company profits, higher customer satisfaction, better health and safety outcomes and more creative and driven employees. This week we ask a follow up question - How do we actually engage employees? Still Feeling Happy and … [Read more...]