One of the more technique sensitive challenges in business is how to effectively bridge departmental silos. There are many barriers, including these eight: Politics and personal political agendas Business maturity The need to respect others' … [Read more...]
Going, Going, and Nearly Gone: Products Going Bye-Bye
Fewer things are more fun to sell than hot commodities. Far harder to move are dying ones. Thanks to Betsy Towner, here is a list of old friends we won't be seeing much longer: Business cards. Throughout my career, every time I get a new business … [Read more...]
Why the Years of 0-13 Are So Vital (part 2 of 2: Business)
Part 2 of 2 The Impact of Years 0-13 Later in Business "Lead, follow, or get out of the way." Those three options were engraved into the faceplate of a small sign that pointed at guest chairs facing desk of the late George M. … [Read more...]
Why the Years from 0-13 Are So Vital (Part 1 of 2: Sports Dad)
Part 1 of 2 "The Sports Dad" I have been inordinately busy the last several weeks, eyeballs deep navigation through a pair of fascinating scenarios. Polar opposites in challenge and charter, both initiatives share a common denominator: the dramatic … [Read more...]
Why the Triple Crown is So Hard to Win: People
The majesty of horse racing at its highest level is electrifying, albeit for an inexplicably short period -- like an eclipse -- when the public interest and an extraordinary athlete slide toward an overlap that lasts barely two minutes. Great horses … [Read more...]
Why Great Bosses Are Different
I came across an interesting article by Geoffrey James that struck a chord. He wrote a brief column titled "8 Core Beliefs of Extraordinary Bosses." In it James summarizes key traits gleaned from interviews with well respected CEOs. This topic -- … [Read more...]
Why Email is Decreasing in Effectiveness
Back in the salad days of my youth, when German Shepherds and cocker spaniels outnumbered shih-tzus and chihuahuas, the magic of the day often arrived in an envelope, rescued from the mailbox and adorned with a hand-cancelled postage stamp. Real … [Read more...]
Why Office Etiquette Helps You Get Ahead (part 3 of 3)
Office Etiquette, part 3 of 3 Proper Behavior When You Are the Boss The hardest job in any company is usually front-line manager. Depending on the organization and its promotion strategies, the people selected to man that front line of management … [Read more...]
Why Office Etiquette Helps You Get Ahead (part 2 of 3)
Office Etiquette, part 2 of 3 Interacting with Your Boss "Manage your manager" through consistently smart interactions. This demonstrates business maturity and helps with smart career positioning for those motivated to someday lead. Part 2 of this … [Read more...]
Why Office Etiquette Helps You Get Ahead (part 1 of 3)
Office Etiquette, part 1 of 3 Dealing with Peers Smooth business etiquette showcases style and maturity. A lack of etiquette exposes shortfalls in maturity, manners, and education. All of us with career aspirations should respect the importance of … [Read more...]