Blog

In this blog post, Derek Fournier delves into the pervasive trend of contrarian cynicism in professional discourse, reflecting on the shift from meaningful debate to soundbite-driven criticism. He critiques the tendency to dismiss rather than engage, calling for a return to genuine, human-centric dialogue. Fournier encourages readers to prioritize listening over speaking and constructive conversation over confrontation, advocating for a cultural shift towards empathy and understanding in communication.

I watched my son's band at their Music Performance Assessment, marveling at the unity and power of music. Their journey from practice to performance, especially the sight-reading challenge, showcased the incredible teamwork and leadership among these young musicians. It was an inspiring testament to how individual talents blend into a harmonious collective.

Learn how to solve problems effectively with our new blog post, 'Using the A-Team Approach in Professional Problem-Solving.' Find out how the legendary 1980s TV show, The A-Team, can teach you how diverse skill sets and teamwork can foster innovation and solutions in today's business world. From matching strengths to making use of individual talents for group success, we examine how creating your own A-Team can turn challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation. Join us on a journey to discover the power of diversity and collaboration in professional settings.

Dive into our latest blog where Derek Fournier explores the delicate balance between striving for perfection and embracing 'good enough.' Learn how letting go of the unattainable can free you to achieve greater success and satisfaction.

Discover the transformative power of human-centric leadership in technology with our latest blog post. Dive into the insights of Bill Anderson, a seasoned tech leader, who shares the pivotal role of empathy, trust and fostering talent in driving innovation and success. Learn how the human element shapes the future of tech leadership.

Ever caught yourself assuming everyone else should meet deadlines, react, or work exactly how you do? Our latest blog, 'Don't Expect Yourself in Others,' tackles why that mindset can set us up for disappointment. It's a straightforward look at why people's actions and reactions differ and how acknowledging this can save us a lot of stress and misunderstandings.

Explore the future of AI and its impact on human skills and creativity. This article examines AI as a collaborative tool, the need for lifelong learning, and the unique value of human ingenuity. A thought-provoking read on the evolving dynamics between technology and humanity.

In the quiet introspection that often accompanies the holiday season, I find myself navigating through the remnants of a profound professional chapter – the rise and fall of a company I led. This isn't your typical story of business strategy or market dynamics, but rather a deeply personal reflection on the emotional landscape of leading a team through the complexities of a company's demise. It’s a tale that intertwines the professional with the personal, reminding us that behind every corporate decision and outcome, there are human stories and lessons that transcend the confines of a boardroom.

TThrough a conversation with an executive friend 'Mike', Derek explores how professional and personal interactions are crucial for keeping us vibrant and engaged. He highlights the importance of emotional experiences in the workplace, beyond financial gains, underscoring the need for constant engagement in life’s challenges and connections to stay ‘wound up’ and fulfilled.

'Elephant Hunting' is about boldly tackling the biggest issues in meetings or discussions. By directly confronting significant challenges, this strategy clears underlying tensions, encourages open dialogue, and paves the way for focused, effective problem-solving and progress.

The 'Integrity Trap' occurs when misread actions lead to perceived attacks on character. This blog explores how to avoid this trap through empathy, clear communication, and self-awareness, promoting understanding and trust in relationships.

Integrity isn't just moral posturing; it's about trust, consistency, and predictability in leadership. Authentic leaders like Brian create trust by staying true to themselves. Genuine integrity shapes company culture and morale. While vital, it's simple: value honesty and put people first. Next week, we'll explore potential pitfalls like the 'integrity trap'.