On a recent business trip to Germany and Austria, I was reminded of how difficult it can be to communicate when you don’t speak the same language. Even the otherwise simple tasks of ordering a meal, asking for directions, and shopping can be complicated. This experience prompted me to think about how difficult it can be to communicate in business
Asking questions demonstrates curiosity, shows interest, solicits answers, engages others, prompts shifts in thoughts and actions, fosters reflection, helps to reframe a situation, helps generate ideas and solutions, and builds rapport.
Recently an executive coaching client asked me how to break the ice with people who have achieved great things in life and who might be considered intimidating. Here are 20 questions to help get a conversation started and build a relationship (with just about anyone): How did you get into the work you are doing? What do you like most about the work you do?
Imagine the complexity of a highway…all of the roads that feed into it, as well as the roads that the single highway feeds. That same complexity is true for bus systems, subways, and air traffic systems. Beyond transportation, there are countless other examples of these complex systems — healthcare, food, water, electricity, information (the internet) and even diseases. Not only does each part play an important role, it is also related in one
The ability to think and act strategically has long been recognized as a key differentiator between average and exceptional leaders (Management Research Group). But what is strategic thinking and acting? Simply put, it is the practice of thinking broadly about current and future issues, in a manner that considers the implications of actions. As a critical leadership skill, this enables
One of my favorite science fiction movies is The Matrix (1999). The movie imagines humanity that is unknowingly trapped inside a simulated reality (aka The Matrix) created by intelligent machines to distract humans while using their bodies as an energy source. A computer programmer (aka Neo, played by Keanu Reeves) uncovers the truth as he is drawn into a rebellion against the
I am often asked about my experiences coaching all levels of leaders. One of those questions is “what makes a good coaching client?” There are five distinct factors that indicate a person is likely to benefit from coaching—whether from a professional coach, manager-coach, or peer. 1. Embrace a Growth Mindset A desire to learn, grow and shift their mindsets and behaviors.
We’re proud to be a part of the ninth annual Human Resources (HR) Leadership Summit for professionals seeking to effectively lead business change in the face of today’s complex challenges. The summit will focus on key trends found in the 2019 Deloitte Global Human Capital Trends report that identifies critical human capital trends. Date: October 24, 2019Location: Queens University of
Learn, and be certified to use, the WorkPlace Big Five Profile™ personal inventory Friday, 11/1 to Sunday, 11/3 in Charlotte. innovative and strategic organizations, consultants and executive coaches are using the WorkPlace Big Five Profile™ for the in-depth information it brings to all aspects of human resource optimization and workforce development. The results speak for themselves— low-to-minimal turnover, maximized engagement,