Build Workplaces With Thriving People + Extraordinary Outcomes
The sun was shining as Katie set off for her first day at work on her dream job. Heading to the office with a brisk walk, a little smile, and the flutter of butterflies in the stomach, everything seemed bright about the day to come. As managers, we know that there are many things to … Read moreHow to help your new hire get off to a great start
A few years back, my friend Michael was a successful student here at Michigan Ross. With a winning personality, work experience at a top Internet company, and an advanced degree from a prestigious business school, Michael had his pick of post-graduation employers. He decided to join a prominent West Coast tech company, and was seemingly … Read moreBeyond Engagement: Thrive At Work
All talent professionals greet the annual Gallup Engagement figures with some interest and curiosity. Increasingly, though, I have noticed a little less engagement (pun intended) with the numbers in recent years. It seems that the issue is so big, complex, and intractable that it is easier to just be sadly aware of its existence, than … Read moreThe Allure of Intrapreneurship
Rich Sheridan and James Goebel have built a software company on the philosophy that work and workplaces can and should be joyful. And a large part of that involves getting the technology out of the way of real human interaction. Full video here! Rich Sheridan’s delightful book, Joy, Inc., can be bought here.
When you look around your office, do you see a positive organization that fosters growth, expansion, and engagement, or the opposite? Recently, I connected with Chris White, Managing Director of the University of Michigan’s Center for Positive Organizations, and Adjunct Faculty at the Ross School of Business, for his take on how we can create positive organizations … Read moreSix Essential Ways to Build a Positive Organization
How is an intrapreneur different from an entrepreneur? In a corporate setting, the ‘ventures’ they lead are not always products or services, but could be other kinds of initiatives that advance organizational objectives while having social or environmental benefits. These come in many shapes or sizes. Intrapreneurs have a wider field of vision than most … Read moreAre you an Intrapreneur? : Take our four-point test
Earlier this year, I caught up with Zingerman’s Co-founder and CEO Ari Weinzweig. In a fun and wide-ranging chat, we discussed the Natural Laws of Business, building ecosystems for healthy growth, taking the long-term perspective, rewiring for personal change, and making leadership personal. Here is the full video!
Managers sit at a juncture at which there lies great opportunity for positive contribution in the world. Our managers make a disproportionate difference in our happiness, engagement, and performance at work. As we look back on our careers so far, almost all of us can point to a teacher, mentor, or manager whose skillful commitment … Read moreThe Opportunity of Management