Dr Burt

Og Mandino once said “Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss, contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve your performance the next time.” I think every success offers a lot of valuable lessons, too, and I know for a fact that most managers don’t spend nearly enough focus on how to derive the most from either.

First, let’s go back to to the basics. Way back, in fact, to the first management class you took if you were a business major, probably called Principles of Management or Intro to Management. If you didn’t take this class, what I’m about to share with you can save you all the trouble because this is what management is all about. The process of management involves four ongoing activities. Four verbs, in other words – Planning, organizing, implementing, and controlling.

Read the rest of this page »

Communication!

If you look at any successful relationship, chances are the key thing that makes it successful, the common denominator, is effective communication.

Communication that is candid, respectful, useful, timely, concise, relevant, interpersonal, and any other adjectives you can think of to describe it. It all comes down to communication.

Leadership is very much a relationship, so communication is a leadership skill that can’t be oversold.

If you’re already a good communicator, good for you. Just remember it’s a process, so constantly challenge yourself to  be an even better communicator.

If not, don’t despair. Being a good communicator, just like being a good leader, is something that can be learned.

Communicate in a respectful manner – don’t just tell your team members what you want, but explain to them why.” – Jeffrey Morales

Communication sometimes is not what you first hear, listen not just to the words, but listen for the reason.” – Catherine Pulsifer