Effective Managers Focus On Outcomes More Than Process
Early in my career, I took a call from the top executive in my business. This was an unusual phone call, as he was several rungs up in the corporate
Business Lessons From Michelangelo’s David
Pictures don't do it justice. A vein is running along the young hero's neck. The strap of the sling is hidden along David's back, out of view of the warrior he
How Can I Become A Good Manager?
I use a personal experience interviewing with a bully CEO to illustrate the four main types of managers, and how you can become your best version of a leader.
A Step-By-Step Guide To Firing Someone With Dignity
I relate the mistakes I made with my first experience of firing an employee to a defined process that helps both parties win.
Hey Managers, Preach Less And Lead More
I’m listening to my team and growing increasingly irritated. One by one, they list off the reasons we can’t do better. I was still new to my sales manager role, only six
Managers Should Focus On The Goal And Not “How” Their Team Should Achieve It
I am crazy about Dan Carlin’s podcast, "Hardcore History." I am not a history buff and read minimal military history before finding Carlin’s unique show. From the first episode, I was
How To Spot A Bad Manager Before Accepting A Job Offer
I nearly accepted an executive role with a big company in Chicago several years ago. I passed through the first round of interviews and enjoyed the time I spent with everyone,
If you want to impress a new boss, impress your new peers first
“Who are the best performers in the company?” I hosted a new hire orientation for years as an executive with a Fortune 500 company. This question came from a college graduate
I learned the most important indicator of success with one of my first hires (it wasn’t grades)
“Ian, we need you to lead our intern program this summer.” “Do we have an intern program?” “Not yet. You’ll figure it out.” “Got it.” I was pumped. I was 24 years old and