February 19, 2015 2:06 am
Published by Louellen Essex
No leader does everything correctly all of the time. Mistakes most typically involve misinterpretation of information leading to poor decision-making, not including the right people at the right time in important initiatives, intervening too late in a situation, demonstrating poor interpersonal behaviors that create defensiveness and a climate of disrespect, or not using resources wisely. A poorly executed recovery can…
December 11, 2014 2:13 am
Published by Louellen Essex
We’ve all had encounters with co-workers that didn’t go well, yielding lasting negative consequences. The resulting tension in the air makes communication awkward and productivity often wanes. Realistically, some relationships are easier to repair than others, since you can’t force reconciliation. Making a sincere attempt to restore a damaged relationship, however, has a good chance of success if you follow…
October 2, 2014 3:32 am
Published by Louellen Essex
Influence is critical to the success of any leader. It means garnering enough power within your organization to gain support from others and achieve the results you are working toward. Effective leaders develop a strong base of influence. They know how to use high impact influence skills, causing others to want to follow their lead, rather than being coerced. Their…
September 18, 2014 3:34 am
Published by Louellen Essex
We’ve all sat through presentations while struggling to stay awake. Maintaining the attention of busy staff members who attend countless meetings can be challenging. Facing an audience of professional colleagues at a conference where expectations are high is daunting. By avoiding the following common presentation snafus, you can capture your audience and deliver your message with impact. 1. Too Many…
September 4, 2014 3:35 am
Published by Louellen Essex
Every leader has a preferred mode of communication that works well in many situations, while missing the mark in others. Both sending and receiving messages can be inhibited if the communicator is unaware of blind spots that create interference. Use the guidelines below to identify your communication style and be attuned to the warning signs when it’s working against you.…
August 21, 2014 3:36 am
Published by Louellen Essex
Sometimes leaders have to be critical in an attempt to improve a situation created by staff, colleagues, or upper level leaders. How the message is delivered can make the difference between a productive conversation and a damaged relationship. Use this template to guide your thinking as you craft what you want to say when constructive criticism is necessary. 1. Describe…
July 9, 2014 3:39 am
Published by Louellen Essex
Conflict is inevitable when people work together in an organization. In fact, it’s a good thing because it most often means that those involved care enough about the situation to express their differences or discontent. If mismanaged, however, it can lead to undesirable outcomes. By using the right approach in the right situation, leaders can effectively deal with conflict, increasing…
June 5, 2014 3:42 am
Published by Louellen Essex
Being open to what others have to say is one of the marks of a good leader. When the message is critical feedback, how leaders respond can either create on open communication environment or shut down interaction. While it may not always be easy to listen to criticism, it is essential to hone the skill of non-defensive listening and replying.…
May 22, 2014 2:15 am
Published by Louellen Essex
Passive-aggressive people, rather than communicate openly about their negative feelings, operate subtlety in mean-spirited, maddening ways. This might include not acknowledging others, taking pot shots in meetings, or spreading rumors. The behavior can escalate to attempts to sabotage leaders or co-workers by deliberately missing deadlines, coming late to meetings, going over the boss’s head to complain, or opposing requests made…
