The Leadership Caffeine Blog

Explore by Category:

Lock in 2019 Professional Development with Challenging Conversations

Lock in 2019 Professional Development with Challenging Conversations

I’ve long been convinced we work our way to professional success one challenging conversation and one challenging situation at a time. (Think about it.) Of course, learning to succeed in those moments is the critical part. That’s why we put together our online/on-demand program, Crushing It with Challenging Conversations.

read more
For Challenging Conversations, Respect Melts Resistance

For Challenging Conversations, Respect Melts Resistance

The absence of respect breeds toxicity among individuals and across the workplace. Instead of being blinded by your brilliance it pays to take the time to look, listen, learn, and value the person across the table from you. You’ll be pleased with results, including the respect you’ll receive in return.

read more
Challenging Conversations—How to Tell an Employee It’s Over

Challenging Conversations—How to Tell an Employee It’s Over

Challenging conversations are inherent in a manager’s job, yet this knowledge doesn’t make it any easier when you have to sit down and let a good person know they’re not cutting it and it’s time for them to go. While you own doing everything in your power to coach, train, and support them, in some instances, the individual’s abilities don’t match up with your firm’s and the job’s needs. Here’s guidance on handling this tough situation with clarity and empathy.

read more
Challenging Conversations—Navigating the Blockers at Work

Challenging Conversations—Navigating the Blockers at Work

It’s inevitable to find individuals standing in the way of your well-intended new programs or proposed changes. Instead of expecting logic to win the day or, resorting to aggressive tactics, it pays to use finesse. Here are some well-practiced approaches to navigating the workplace blockers in your life.

read more
Leadership Power-Up—Make Time to Think Deeply

Leadership Power-Up—Make Time to Think Deeply

There’s ample science to conclude that we’re lousy at multi-tasking and alternatively, that taking time to reflect improves our self-efficacy and ability to learn. Unfortunately, most of us work in and contribute to a perpetual tornado of activities in our daily lives. It’s imperative for your well-being and effectiveness to find opportunities to simply pause and think deeply.

read more
podcast: Jennifer K. Crittenden: What’s A Guy to Do? How to Work With Women (#25)

podcast: Jennifer K. Crittenden: What’s A Guy to Do? How to Work With Women (#25)

I recently had a chance to interview former executive and now author and coach, Jennifer K. Crittenden, about her latest book: What’s a Guy to Do? Working With Women, as well as her other excellent books. In this engaging 40-minute interview, Jennifer shares a wealth of great guidance for all of us. Enjoy this latest episode for the Leadership Caffeine podcast.

read more
Leadership Caffeine™—It Comes from Inside

Leadership Caffeine™—It Comes from Inside

Some individuals are thrust on to a big stage and summon the strength to lead others through perilous times. For the rest of us, we are faced with almost daily opportunities to step-up and lead on the small stage. Some look the other way and others summon the strength from somewhere inside themselves to do the right thing.

read more
Leadership Caffeine™—A Simple Hack to Resuscitate Your Positive Attitude

Leadership Caffeine™—A Simple Hack to Resuscitate Your Positive Attitude

When your usual positive attitude takes a holiday and leaves you alone with your grumpier more cynical self, it’s time for action. And while the idea of turning in your resignation after telling off the higher-ups is a nice fantasy, it’s placing the blame squarely where it doesn’t belong. Instead, try this simple but powerful hack to bring your positive attitude back to life:

read more