Surviving the economic downturn and thriving in a post-recession world will require strong and well-developed pools of talent. But most companies are still using succession management plans that are decades old, too rigid and too focused on top jobs, says a new report co-authored by the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL®), a top-ranked, global provider of executive education, and Bersin & … [Read more...]
Leadership Skills – The Top 5 Skills Needed For IT Leadership Roles
A recent survey revealed the top 5 essential skills and qualities needed for those in leadership roles. Some say leaders are born. I think leaders can be developed if they are committed to developing the skills needed to become a good leader. Leadership skills are a valuable asset for someone looking to move up in an organization. “Leadership” is often seen as the role of upper management. In … [Read more...]
Leading With Strength
Too often leaders focus on weaknesses rather than strengths. Starting at an early age whether intentional or not focus is put on weaknesses. A report card with 3 A’s, 2 B’s and a C will likely generate a response “Why did you get a C?”. The focus was put on the weakness, a C grade and not on the strength 3 A’s and 2 B’s. This type of mentality follows us into the workplace. You should not … [Read more...]
One Company, One Team – How To Deal With “It’s Not My Problem”
How many times have you approached someone for help and heard “It’s not my problem” or “It’s not my job”? I am sure you have heard this more than once since companies seem to be full of people who chant them as if they were their own personal mantra. These types of responses point to a lack of unity and shared vision. Some people and even entire teams or departments are so concerned with their … [Read more...]
Tough Times Call For Strong Leadership
The stock market is in turmoil. Rumors of layoffs may abound. Retirement plans are taking serious hits. Political and economic uncertainty adds to the stress level of our employees. These are troubling times for companies and for employees. This is the time for leaders to rise to the challenge and ensure their employees that all is well. Leadership is the special quality which enables people … [Read more...]
Leadership Skills – Leaders Drive Change
In this continuing series of articles on leadership, we are going to look at why leaders need to drive change within their organization. A leader must be the one to stand up and say this needs to change and this is how we are going to do it. They should lead the strategy, planning, development and implementation of change. Why Change Is Needed Change is vital to growth and expansion. It … [Read more...]
Leadership Skills – Communications Part 2
Great leaders are usually great communicators. No leadership skill can compensate for poor communications. Great communicators use their skills to persuade others to follow. They are able to present their vision and plan in a clear and concise manner. In the first article in this series, Leadership Skills - Communications Part 1 we looked at the role of the speaker. Now we will examine the … [Read more...]
Leadership Skills – Communications Part 1
To be a great leader you must first be a great communicator. With good communications skills you will be able to articulate your vision clearly and repeatedly. Spell out your plan of action, asking for everyone's support and showing confidence in a positive outcome. Think of all of the areas where communications skills are used. One-on-one with your employees Small groups or your … [Read more...]