We’re a little way into 2012, and what better time than now to touch on some of the emerging trends in management development this year. While a large amount hasn’t changed from last year, it’s worthwhile covering the big picture items, as the vast majority of organizations are stuck in their old management development systems. […]
Read More Business, Management, management development, Talent, TrainingWhatever business you happen to be in, it’s important that you have a thorough understanding of your competitors. If you don’t, you’re missing out on at least some profits. You’ll also find yourself in a very competitive marketplace, where it’s difficult to turn any kind of profit. A wonderful example of this came to light […]
Read More Business, Competitive intelligence, service offerings, ValueProject management is a wonderfully complex topic, but I find particular parts most interesting. For example, it’s amusing to watch how some project managers, and managers in general, work with project status. Now, what I’m going to tell you is far from a big secret, in fact it’s a little bit of common sense. Status absolutely […]
Read More Business, Project and Program Management, Project managementOkay, maybe cruel is the wrong word. But it’s definitely kind to be assertive. Through being assertive, you’ll improve your outcomes, and help others to improve their own. Too often, people let themselves be run over by others in the workplace, and managers are no exception. It might just be a colleague constantly asking you to […]
Read More Assertiveness, Business, Communication, Human Resources, Workplace ConflictAccountability is a funny word. It’s often taken to be a negative. For example, an employee might be held accountable for their failure to meet a deadline. In reality, it’s one of the most beneficial words people in businesses can use. You see, accountability isn’t about blame. It’s about establishing clear boundaries around results, and in […]
Read More Accountability, Business, Employee engagement, Management, MotivationSo, here we are at the end of another year. With a bit of luck, 2011 has been fruitful for you and your business. I’d like to send out a big thank you and wish the best of luck to all of our customers. It’s a great time to look back over the year that’s been, and […]
Read More Business, Interpersonal Skills, ManagementSometimes I think everything I need to know is contained in children’s movies. In his infinite wisdom, Cheshire Cat demonstrates one of the great aspects of any team of any size – a mission. Without one, where would we be? Consider a team of ten professionals, all high performers, more than capable in their positions. Despite […]
Read More Business, Employee engagement, Management, PlanningIn the past month or so, Coca-Cola began their “Share a Coke” campaign in Australia. Basically, they’ve changed the packaging on their flagship product to feature a different name on each bottle. When I first saw this, I thought it was perhaps the most ridiculous gimmick this year. But, look at the buzz it’s generated. […]
Read More Business, Marketing, Social mediaIn many organisations you can find people who are scared. Scared of being outdone, or perhaps even scared of being irrelevant. The truth is that there is always somebody better than you, whatever it is that you do. What’s key for managers to understand is that they need to find those people. While it might be […]
Read More Business, Management, PeopleA great deal of large companies place a huge focus on cost as a part of their purchasing policies. While that might seem like a great way to ensure you get the value that you seek, it’s a little bit backwards. The typical process involves obtaining multiple quotes, and selecting the “best offer”. A solid […]
Read More Business, Cost management, Performance, Purchasing, Small business