Blog: Leadership

From the desk of the blog's editor, Keri, comes an unfiltered dive into the mindset of young professionals navigating the workplace. This piece unravels the complexities, expectations, and desires of 20-somethings in entry-level positions. Managers will find actionable insights on how to foster genuine relationships, the importance of consistent communication, the power of recognition, the need for context in tasks, and the inherent nature of young professionals to question authority. By understanding and adapting to these insights, managers can create a positive working environment that both retains and nurtures the young talent in their teams.

Discover the nuanced difference between passion and recklessness in this thought-provoking post. Dive into the author's personal journey of fitness and the pivotal moment when pushing too hard led to unwanted consequences. Through his experience, the writer delves into the broader implications of ignoring warning signs in any endeavor, be it in the gym or the corporate world. He champions the importance of listening to feedback, staying adaptive, and understanding when to change course. Immerse yourself in this narrative that underscores the essence of balanced passion and the perils of letting zeal take the reins.

Delve into the profound influence of familial ties, especially the role of fathers, in shaping one's leadership style. Drawing from personal experiences, this post is a moving tribute to the author's father, detailing the life lessons that transcend beyond the realms of personal relationships and find applicability in professional contexts. From understanding the importance of basics and perseverance to lessons learned from the world of sales, the writer takes readers on a journey, urging them to reflect on their mentors and become ones themselves. Recognizing the significance of family and other role models, the article ends on a note of gratitude and encouragement for investing in the next generation.

Dive deep into the world of bartering as a business strategy. While the art of trading services has long been used, this post brings to light the taxation intricacies associated with it. Beyond the implications with the IRS, the writer touches upon the multiple benefits it offers – from improved cash flow for small businesses to potent networking opportunities. By leveraging personal networks for bartering, not only can one get tasks accomplished but also create a robust foundation for business referrals and growth. Treading with caution and intelligence, one can harness the potential of this age-old practice in today's dynamic business environment.

While sharing their journey from passion-filled enthusiasm to missing self-imposed deadlines, the writer uncovers the intricate web of factors affecting our drive. This post delves into the real-world implications of missed commitments, as exemplified by the writer's relationship with their editor, Keri. By reflecting on the value of 'Mental Health Days' and the restrictive nature of tight schedules, the writer provides a balanced perspective on managing one's motivation and mental well-being. Whether you're feeling the weight of a creative block or simply curious about the ebb and flow of passion, this piece offers a blend of personal anecdotes, practical insights, and a touch of humor to enlighten and engage.

Challenge the popular management mantra 'Don’t bring me problems, bring me solutions!' with this insightful blog post that pushes for more proactive and constructive managerial behavior. The author unpacks why this phrase, while well-intentioned, often hampers genuine feedback and team growth. Emphasizing the value of problem identification, the writer urges managers to guide and mentor their teams towards solution-building. Introducing the novel idea of White Flags – challenges recognized but yet unsolved – the post outlines different types of problems and the necessary managerial responses. Drawing from personal experiences and a deep understanding of team dynamics, this article is a must-read for any leader or manager seeking to foster a proactive, solution-oriented team environment.

Drawing upon personal experiences at Microsoft and broader observations, the writer breaks down why waiting for failure can be catastrophic, hinting at deeper organizational flaws like broken communication and a lack of trust. Dive into a real-world example of how ignoring collective team concerns can lead to significant setbacks, job losses, and missed opportunities. Beyond just pointing out problems, this post provides actionable insights for leaders. Emphasizing the importance of trust, open dialogue, and proactive problem-solving, the writer encourages a decisive, action-first leadership approach. This is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their leadership skills and foster a thriving, proactive team environment.

Navigate the treacherous waters of work overwhelm with this insightful blog post that dives deep into the art of delegation and the perils of trying to do it all. Through a personal narrative, the author provides a fresh perspective on the value of seeking assistance, even when resources seem scarce. The post emphasizes the mutual benefits of collaboration, showcasing how both parties can gain immensely from working together. Interspersed with witty editor's notes, this post blends humor, personal experiences, and actionable advice, offering readers a comprehensive guide to breaking free from self-imposed constraints and embracing the power of delegation. Discover the untapped resources around you and learn the art of bartering in the business world with this enlightening read.

Venture into the debated world of stretch goals with this insightful blog post that challenges Daniel Markovitz's critiques. By drawing parallels between golf and business, the author highlights the importance of addressing foundational aspects before blaming the tools or strategies in use. While acknowledging the potential pitfalls of stretch goals, the post emphasizes that these arise more from poor management than from the concept of stretch goals itself. This piece serves as a call to focus on the basics, ensure ethical standards, and create a supportive environment where growth and progress can thrive. It's a must-read for managers and leaders striving to set effective goals.

Dive into this relatable and humorous critique of inefficient customer service systems with a blog post that echoes the frustrations of many. The author recounts a personal experience with an automated phone system, only to face repetitive questions from human representatives, highlighting the inefficiencies that often plague customer support lines. The primary message is a plea for businesses to respect their customers' time and ensure that automated systems genuinely enhance the user experience. With a personal connection to Microsoft and a passion for better customer service, the writer's insights are both poignant and practical, offering a clear message: Don't waste your customer's time!

Discover the intricacies of leadership in the modern era with this insightful blog post. Delve into the debate between formal and informal leadership styles, with a nod to contemporary thought leaders and the impactful Situational Leadership theory by Ken Blanchard. While the casual approach of today's leaders is celebrated, the importance of adaptability, structure, and setting clear expectations is emphasized. Recognizing that there's no one-size-fits-all strategy, the writer encourages leaders to discern when to stick to traditional tracks and when to venture off.

Using a quirky anecdote about the dangers of accidentally poisoning a cat, the author humorously underscores the significance of confronting issues head-on. By listing common business problems and emphasizing the benefits of timely communication, the post provides readers with a straightforward and crucial lesson: bad news is always better than stale bad news. With its engaging style and important message, this post is a must-read for professionals at all levels. Engage with the author and community by sharing your own experiences in the comments.