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New Manager. Feeling Unsure.
I opened the calendar invite for a call with a prospective client. In the space where I asked to share anything that could help me prepare for the meeting, they simply wrote: “New manager. Feeling unsure.” As I read these words, Coach Josh knew I would show up curious, ask questions to understand why they…
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By Request
When I coach leaders, we discuss a wide range of topics, such as strengthening relationships, moving from mentoring to coaching, or improving personal productivity. Of all the topics, one stands out as the most prevalent. Nearly every leader I have ever worked with has wanted to improve their ability to delegate effectively. One challenge is…
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Authenticity
When I ask people for characteristics that define a great leader, one that frequently emerges is authenticity. There is beauty and complexity in authenticity. Let’s explore the concept. Exploring Authenticity I invite you to pause for a moment and consider what authenticity means to you. Think of when you’ve shown up as your most authentic…
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Beneficial Communication
There is wisdom in Buddha’s teachings, regardless of your religious or spiritual inclinations. In her book Tea and Cake with Demons: A Buddhist Guide to Feeling Worthy, Adreanna Limbach does an excellent job presenting a modern interpretation of Buddhist teachings. Today, I want to explore one aspect of Buddha’s Eightfold Path, often called Right Speech.…
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Great Leaders Speak Last
As a leader, you regularly lead meetings. In leading, you feel compelled to open the discussion and share your thoughts. This gets the ball rolling and sets the tone for the meeting. In some cases, this technique can backfire. I have usually been good about holding back and letting others speak first. One time, however,…
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Courageous Conversations
I’ve noticed a pattern emerging with a handful of my clients. Each situation is unique, but the commonality lies in their relationship with their boss. For various reasons, the client is uncomfortable giving their boss feedback. These are challenging situations. The client’s performance or personal brand often takes a hit because of the boss’s behavior,…
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Shared Background of Obviousness
When I teach the framework for effective requests as a tool to improve delegation, one component that inevitably generates discussion is the shared background of obviousness (which I’ll abbreviate as SBO for convenience’s sake). Today, we’ll unpack this concept. Understanding the SBO can improve your empathy for others, especially when communication issues abound. What is the SBO? Considering…
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Managing Managers
Every professional transition, whether a promotion, a diagonal move, or switching to a new organization, requires a shift in perspective. Techniques that served you well in your prior role may be less relevant in the new one, and you undoubtedly need to acquire new knowledge and develop new skills. One of the most pivotal shifts…
