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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…
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Magical Meetings
When you think about meetings, what emotions arise? As a senior leader, I often played Tetris with my calendar, trying to squeeze someone into an already-packed schedule. According to Zippia, 24 billion hours are wasted yearly due to unproductive meetings. What if meetings could be a magical experience for you? What if you found yourself routinely…
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You’re Not The Leader You Think You Are
In 1993 I was a software developer fresh out of school. I was determined to be a “Renaissance Programmer.” Someone who could do every aspect of development, not unlike the “Full-Stack Developer” of the current era. I was sure I would have nothing to do with management and “climbing the corporate ladder.” I remember sitting…
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Desktop Detox
Last week we rolled up our sleeves and tamed the device that is the most significant source of distraction in our world –smartphones. I started there because our smartphones are typically with us 24/7. Most of us spend the majority of our day at a desk in front of a computer, so today, we will continue…
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Focus Pocus
Last week I attended the Ellucian Live conference. Seeing so many long-time friends and colleagues and the event returning to its pre-COVID attendance levels was exciting. I was also amazed how many people walked around the convention center staring at their phones. Don’t get me wrong – I love my iPhone. I get massive productivity…
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Conquering Your Calendar
While I intensely dislike the slogan “Work smarter, not harder,” the phrase resonates with me when it comes to managing your calendar. If you have ever felt like your calendar leads you around like a dog on a leash, or you’ve felt a rush of dopamine because you figured out how to squeeze another meeting…
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Building Bridges
Recently a leader gave me feedback on a coaching conversation that he found particularly impactful. “When you raised both hands and commented on the ‘Us vs. Them’ culture between the two departments, everything clicked, and I realized what I would do next time.” Today I’ll unpack the learning we unlocked together. The Scenario I’ll leave…
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A Tale of Two Paths
Today’s topic has been on my backlog for a while. Over the years, I’ve had countless mentoring conversations with managers struggling with handling an underperforming employee. Often I find they drag their heels and are hesitant to take action, as I have done with bringing this topic to my blog. While these are complex and…
