Tag Archive: organizational success

When to Give a Second Chance and When to Draw the Line

I give second chances reluctantly. I don’t want you on my team if you don’t work hard and bring your best. Drifters, excuse-makers, and blamers freak me out. They don’t deserve second chances.… Continue reading

Strategies for Dealing with Defensive Employees

Feedback is wasted on Mr. Defensive. He closes his mind to anything that feels threatening.  The chronically defensive can’t benefit from helpful suggestions or constructive feedback. Strategies of Mr. Defensive: The moment you… Continue reading

Portrait of a Squeaky Wheel

Squeaky wheels suck the life out of leaders, teams, and organizations while they claim the high ground for themselves. Squeaky wheels have aspiration for others and exemption for themselves. Portrait of a squeaky… Continue reading

How to Gain Power when you Feel Powerless

Many emails I receive concern frustration caused by feeling powerless. Something’s wrong and change seems unlikely. Abuse gives power a bad name, but you need power to get things done. How to gain… Continue reading

6 Reasons Employees Don’t Talk to Their Managers

Employees talk more and managers talk less in successful one-on-ones. 6 reasons employees don’t talk to their managers: Cold professional culture. Caring happens outside work. Talkative managers. Curiosity about people is rare. Intimidating… Continue reading

Dear Dan: An Employee Yelled at Me

Dear Dan, I read your blog everyday and need some advice! I believe I am leading a narcissist. She lost it today and called me a name when I provided feedback on a… Continue reading