Tag Archive: Organizational Development

Bill Campbell Teaches Google Execs How to Run Meetings

“You’re like a dictator dolling out tasks.” (Bill Campbell to Jonathan Rosenberg.) I was surprised when Jonathan Rosenberg said his coach, Bill Campbell, wasn’t focused on efficiency. He focused on relationship and community.… Continue reading

Bogus Self-Esteem and the Dangers of Shallow Praise

Whatever you do, don’t criticize or correct. You might damage someone’s self-esteem. (Sarcasm intended.) Bolstering, maintaining, and protecting self-esteem is the sacred cow of modern society. It’s a grievous evil to do anything… Continue reading

How to Stop Writing so Many Policies

Fear drives excessive policy-making. But policies don’t ignite passion. Excessive policy-making hobbles employees and hinders organizations. Policies are written for protection and often explain what shouldn’t or can’t be done.  Remarkable organizations are… Continue reading

The Nickname Project

Nurse Alice Tittle said Claudia Alta Taylor was, “… as pretty as a lady bird.” At two years old, Claudia became, “Lady Bird.” (NYT) Claudia became the First Lady of the United States… Continue reading

If You Don’t Know How to Make Work Fun

I’ll never forget the day my wife said our family was more peaceful without me. The kids were still home and I was always upset about something. Tragically, life was better without me.… Continue reading

Why Performance Declines After Praise

Generally speaking, it’s better to praise someone for not smoking than warning them about lung cancer. But we typically default to warnings. When you see a friend smoking, what’s the first thing you… Continue reading