While many feedback coaching tips expound on the benefits of empathy in providing difficult-to-hear messages, there is a limit to empathy’s effectiveness in feedback situations. Don’t misunderstand me, I do believe empathy is a critical element of all feedback sessions. However, one thing I notice...
People Skills
How Does Executive Coaching Work?
Some Truths About Executive Coaching Executive coaching is the new state-of-the-art for career development. It’s like having a professional mentor–but much more. I never cease to be amazed at the power of the coaching process to draw out the skills or talent that was previously hidden...
My Wish List for Senior Executives
What key skill should every senior executive (and anyone aspiring to be one someday) master? The art of listening. John helps us understand why this is so important. How can you improve your listening skills this week? (We all can!) - InPower Editors Several people asked me recently what the most...
Dear Dana Workplace Advice: How to Handle a Bully Who Stoops to Going Through Your Trash
Welcome to “Dear Dana”, our regular column to give you career and workplace advice/coaching. Please write in and tell me about a career challenge or frustration you’re facing at the office! – Dana Theus Dear Dana: I’m a manager at a small automotive parts factory and I need advice on how to handle...
Getting Ahead in 2018: Networking Secrets to Know Now
By Jessica Thiefels Networking can be hard, nervewracking, expensive and time-consuming. It can also afford you otherwise unavailable job opportunities and ultimately provide you with the tools you need to find success and stand out in your field. Especially as we head into the New Year, when...
The Antidote for Toxic Corporate Culture
In a recent leadership development workshop I facilitated, one woman bravely spoke her truth about the reality of the toxic corporate culture they all worked in. It was dysfunctional. Managers were petty and their pettiness was only overshadowed by the pettiness of the leaders above them. All...
Stop Serving the Feedback Sandwich
By: Michael Bungay Stangier Asking for feedback shouldn’t be seen as a negative thing, as it shows an employee is engaged and looking for constructive criticism. Unfortunately, many people struggle to really understand how to effectively give (and receive) feedback. For many years, we’ve served...
The Upside of Office Politics
Sometimes my clients start falling into a pattern, and it gives me an opportunity to look more deeply at common challenges we all face. Lately, too many of my clients have fallen into the “victim of office politics” trap. This looks different for each person, but in every case it feels like...
5 Leadership Lessons From The Worst Bosses I’ve Ever Had
I recently read a fabulous post by Steve Tobak on BNET with tons of great management advice based on his personal experience. It reminded me that after scolding Steve Jobs and other jerk bosses, I actually owe my two worst bosses some props in public. I doubt they’ll read this but you never know...
Dear Dana Workplace Advice: What do you mean I’m not a good listener?
Welcome to “Dear Dana”, our Friday column to give you workplace advice and coaching. Please write in and tell me about a frustration you’re facing at the office and I’ll publish my answer in an upcoming column. I can’t wait to hear from you! – Dana Theus Dear Dana, I always get good annual...