The first time I became aware of challenges specific to different generations working together in a client organization, was over a decade ago. Social media was not yet a major part of our culture. But already, the mix of generations at work was causing its share of covert challenges.  I mention “covert” because the challenges were rarely discussed openly at that time. Young professionals were coming in with valid ideas for new and more efficient ways to utilize technology. They were often stifled by unavailable budgets for change or seasoned managers who were dealing with their own anxie ..read more

In addition to day-to-day demands, an executive leader has several long-term or organization-wide initiatives that demand strategic thinking and planning. The more day-to-day demands build up, the less time we have to be strategic. The more we’re distracted from our strategic demands, the more we begin feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and exhausted. And how much do we accomplish when we’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed and exhausted? Not nearly as much as we need or want to. This type of slump can happen to the best of us, and however short-lived it may be, it’s not a happy place. If you can re ..read more

If you’re leading a team you undoubtedly have a percentage of high-performers on the team—People you enjoy leading, working with, and mentoring. People who shine. They take initiative or they take your lead, get better at their jobs, and highly contribute to the organization. You may also have people who are mediocre or under-performers. They may lack strategic thinking. They may fail to contribute beyond the minimum. Or, they might be trying their hardest yet they’re still falling short of reaching their goals. Having to roll up your sleeves for the hard work of leading someone who is tough ..read more

Consider approaching a high-performing individual on your team, or an awesome colleague, today. Let them know how highly you think of them. Offer one or two specific examples that highlight ways in which their efforts, skills, or approaches have made a difference to a project, your team, or your organization. As we struggle to find the time to respond to daily demands, and work towards longer-term goals at work, it’s sometimes easy to take our highest performers for granted. They deserve one-on-one attention and coaching. They may appreciate discussing their successes in more detail, giving t ..read more

I’ve shared these thoughts before at this point in the holiday season. I think I’m going to make it a tradition because I’m reminded of it each year, either through my own experience, or what I imagine others may be experiencing. – – – – – – – – This is a time of year when we may experience an interesting contrast of emotions. We might find ourselves thinking about all that we have to be grateful for—family, friends, our health, or just being alive. At the same time, our memories or expectations of holiday cheer may heighten our feelings of sadness or concern over the loss of loved ones, strug ..read more

Many of you will relate to this next sentence. One of the most significant causes of workplace frustration is unresolved conflict between two people. Two leaders don’t see eye-to-eye, and as time goes on, their teams begin feeling the impact of the lack of alignment at the helm. Two co-workers who find each other’s work styles frustrating fail to talk through it, and while unspoken frustrations increase, productivity decreases. Passive-aggressive behavior between two people on a team, begins impacting open dialogue among the larger group during team meetings. There are numerous resources, tool ..read more

I’m guessing many of you can relate to the title of this post. It may be about a salesperson who is bringing in a ton of revenue, yet fails to treat support staff with respect. Or, it may be someone with exceptional technical skills who is alienating their peers with poor or gruff communications. In some cases, your ability to enforce certain standards may be—or may feel—limited. We know how important it is to set consistent performance standards across our teams and organizations. We know how crucial it is for professionals to build internal relationships. Yet, it’s not unusual for specialize ..read more

Just to clarify, I’m referring to my ability and motivation to produce creative art. Actually, I’m talking more about my desire to produce art, and my lack of motivation to get started. For those of you who read my blog, you know that 99% of the time, my posts are focused on workplace topics, tools and strategies. But today, I feel compelled to share one of my personal journeys. And I’m asking you directly for any thoughts or guidance you might be willing to offer. I enjoy playing with clay. I love to write. I’ve thought seriously about starting a video blog on aging gracefully. “Aging Grace ..read more

I was inspired to write this brief post after a business associate expressed that she’d like to learn how to be empathetic when frustrations are high. I thought that was a brilliant goal. And a hard one to reach. It got me thinking and this is what I came up with……… People who are striving to be more empathetic at work can generally find small ways to practice. They can ask more questions at the beginning of a conversation to better understand where someone is coming from. They understand when someone who is grieving is not at their best. They may reach out and offer support to someone who is ..read more

In the spirit of Summer and life/work balance, I thought I’d share the following article I wrote some time ago. I updated the number of years now spent in our neighborhoods, but the enjoyment of walking in the city remains the same for us. – – – – – – – – – – – I grew up in Rochester, on the east side of the city, and I’ve continued to live in the city for most of my life. The sounds of the city, including passing traffic, lull me to sleep at night. I find myself missing the traffic buzz when I’m traveling and staying in a suburb or country setting. I understand that a small city like Rocheste ..read more