FieldNotes
Our daily Field Notes email is just the kind of jumpstart you need. A fast read. Maybe less than a minute. Because sometimes it just takes one insight to change the trajectory of the day.
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The Danger of Overreaching as a Leader
A leader who extends their authority or influence beyond acceptable limits is said to be “overreaching.” This often happens when a leader makes decisions outside of their purview, takes control over situations or people with whom they have no authority, or takes actions well beyond their expertise.
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Colleagues Who Take Everything Personally
The more consistent the leader is, the more likely the evidence will demonstrate that they are engaging and operating in good faith and without a desire to harm, harshly judge, or offend the easily slighted colleague. This requires real patience and can test even the best of leaders. Some tests a leader faces are bigger…
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The Ingredients of an Effective Performance Improvement Plan (PIP)
Sometimes, team members need a highly structured approach to perform more effectively. Leaders often require team members who are underperforming in a critical area to agree to such a personalized map for self-improvement. For those in Human Resources, such a structured plan is typically called a PIP (Performance Improvement Plan).
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The Map Is Not the Territory
The strategic plan requires in-depth analysis and a plethora of details to support its soundness. But only the most senior leaders need to know and understand the strategy at that level. Everyone else does not. What team members want is a simple explanation of the big picture, the initiatives involved in execution, and what it…
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When a Colleague Clearly Doesn’t Like You
Making the colleague feel valued and important will often turn the tide. In the words of Dale Carnegie, “applause is a receipt, not a bill.” Perhaps a little applause is all that’s needed to dissolve the dislike. If not, take the high road and engage professionally. You will never regret it.
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The Advantage of Speed
Organizations that figure out how to achieve a best-of-class speed in one or more areas of their enterprise have a big advantage over their industry peers or competitors. Most organizations and leaders underestimate the power of speed to create focus and to achieve better results. But taking advantage of this differentiator normally requires tremendous commitment…
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Deciding What to Delegate
Deciding what to delegate isn’t about dumping tasks you don’t want to do. It’s about developing your team and finding the time to focus on the issues with the biggest impact. When you do things that others could, everyone loses. Good leaders love to delegate. They are not lazy, too busy, or overly trusting, but…
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Working With a Leader Who Is Overwhelmed
A leader who is overwhelmed by tasks, problems, and expectations is more than simply distracted. Juggling too many balls can create stress, edginess, and an inability to focus. They typically don’t remember much of what they tell others or retain the information shared with them. Overwhelmed leaders often struggle to convey directions or priorities clearly,
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Why We High-Five The Winner
Building self-esteem from the victories of others is a bridge too far. It is better for you to create your own success than to live vicariously through the victories of others.
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What Leaders Can Learn From Great Parents
Parenting is the most common leadership role in the world. Raising children to become happy and productive young adults is a daunting task for even the most talented parents. Of the many lessons parents want to imprint upon their children, responsibility ranks very high.