As managers we often face long-term projects and initiatives that test our metal. Our IT department is near the end of an initiative that has evolved over a seven-year period. It has encompassed many projects, many departments and a lot of my time. Now with less than 10 weeks left until the end of this initiative the end is finally in sight. Over the next few months I plan on sharing some of … [Read more...]
How To Use Progressive Discipline for Employees
As managers we all must deal with employee issues from time to time. You should have an established process for dealing with them. Your goal is to correct the issue and improve the employee. This is not about punishment for an employee. It is about using a system to help the employee return to being an effective member of your team. In this article I will outline the steps used in progressive … [Read more...]
What Makes Employees Happy?
A happy employee is a more productive and content employee. So what makes an employee happy with their job? A good salary, with good benefits and a good work environment only go so far. Employees want job satisfaction, they want to feel like they are a part of something and that their contributions are appreciated. Recognition This is one of the biggest complaints employees have. They feel their … [Read more...]
Formulas for Success
We all want to be successful at our jobs and move up the company ladder. There are many examples out there of a “formula for success”. However no single one is going to be enough to advance your career. Simply stated hard work, self-improvement, a strong work ethic and passion for your work will get your further than any formula. But there are “formulas” you can use that will enhance … [Read more...]
Four Essential Skills For Managers to Master
All managers can agree that many skills are needed to be an effective manager. But what skills are the most important skills that a manager needs to master? To be a more effective manager you should master four skills. Communications, motivation, building trust and leadership are critical skills for every manager. These four skills are essential for a productive work environment, a cohesive and … [Read more...]
Management Skills – Professional Communications
We all want to be seen as professional. But professionalism is in the eye of the beholder so even though you may think you are coming off as professional, in reality you may not. Over the next few articles I will explain how our professionalism is judged and give some tips on how to maintain your professional reputation. We Are Judged on Our Communications Effective communicators must be able to … [Read more...]
A 5S Office System – Sustaining the 5S Office System
Standardize and Sustain are the fourth and fifth steps in a 5S Office System. These last two steps are about keeping your 5S Office System running smoothly. To do this you must set up standards and reinforce the 5S Office System. After the first three articles A 5S Office System – Part 1 Planning, A 5S Office System – Part 2 Laying The Foundation and A 5S Office System – Part 3 Your First … [Read more...]
5 Ways to Improve Your Workspace
Is your desk a mess? Cables running everywhere, papers stacked two feet high, cups, holders and bins everywhere? A clean and organized workspace will do wonders for your productivity and your state of mind. This week Lifehacker ran a series of posts on how to “Supercharge Your Workspace”. There were lots of good ideas for improving your workspace with do it yourself projects and tips. … [Read more...]