Lessons in Leadership

Conflict is a matter of perspective. It’s neither good nor bad, unless our reactions make it so! Consider these two photos below. The first represents what could be a perfect day under water. The second photo is the same scene – just shot from a different perspective.  It certainly doesn’t represent a perfect day – unless you’re the shark!                                 What can we learn from these photos? In order to truly understand the dynamics of any conflict, it’s important to step inside as many different perspectives from our own as possible. When we can see things through a different lens, we learn what others see, feel, and experience. What we then do with this information is our choice. We can ignore the information and plow ahead at our own peril. We can absorb the information and meld it into our own. We can discard our previous notions and move ahead with this new information. Po...

When implementing training programs, ensure that the programs you're considering are a fit. Consider these questions in your pre-training planning: Does the training address the  identified need?  Work with managers to determine the behavioral changes expected as a result of training. Conduct a needs analysis to determine the behavioral changes desired, the measures of success anticipated, and if/when/how expectations for these behaviors have been previously addressed with attendees. Does the training provide for skills practice  opportunities during and after the training?  Without time and opportunity for skills practice, training will create awareness only. For behavioral change, skills practice needs to occur during training with opportunities for application back on the job. Follow-up webinars, group coaching and opportunities for discussion with managers and other attendees can provide support and accountability for application of skills long after trai...