Mark Holmes Imagine this. There’s a room full of managers at their company’s annual meeting that are excited about beginning the conference. The leader takes the microphone and after a few remarks scolds the managers as a group for poor behavior at last year’s meeting. … Read More
7 Mistakes Employees Wish Managers Wouldn’t Make
Most people recognize the importance of having effective managers in an organization. How well they manage their direct reports largely determines how effective they are at sustaining the right work environment. Managers also usually oversee the processes, procedures and systems. The majority of formal and … Read More
How to Fix 6 Sins of Customer Service
Nothing irks some people more than poor customer experience. Whether it’s having dinner out, purchasing equipment or buying professional services an unsatisfying purchase experience sticks in your craw. Delivering great service isn’t always on the minds of leaders. A manufacturer can be so product-driven; a … Read More
How To Handle Employees Who Ignore Taking Accountability
It’s serious when an employee isn’t taking ownership for results. It’s even more serious when they still won’t take ownership after being confronted by their supervisor. In recent months I’ve talked with numerous client-companies struggling with this issue. Surprisingly, it’s not only the marginal employees … Read More
7 Time Management Tips For Crazy Busy People
A common answer to, ‘How’s your day?’ in business circles is generally something along the lines of: I’m stressed, overworked or crazy busy. Due partially to technology, we end up playing while working and working while playing. What’s more, our rest and leisure and jobs … Read More
6 Steps To Resolve Workplace Conflict Successfully
There is nothing wrong with conflict when it helps people. But there is something wrong with how conflict is often handled. In my experience, if a manager does not handle employee conflict skillfully, then it’s likely that work culture, productivity, employee morale and turnover will … Read More
6 Ways To Avoid Being A Micromanager
A few years ago, a group of senior engineers gathered in a conference room to solve a serious manufacturing issue. The engineering manager was present but allowed others to lead the meeting as he listened, encouraged discussion, debated and praised good ideas. After a couple … Read More