Jack Black A Great Leader? Why Not?
by Steve Adubato, PhD
Last week, I wrote about the traits of an “exceptional leader”. One of the things I’ve learned after nearly two decades of writing, teaching and talking about the subjects of leadership and communication is that some of the best lessons can come from the most unlikely sources.
Exceptional Leaders Are...
by Steve Adubato, PhD
In Jim Collins’ book, “Good to Great”, he explores the key factors and characteristics of America’s best companies and organizations. In the past, I have explored the traits of a “great leader”, but now it’s time to step up our game and raise the bar.
Many Reasons for Employees Underperforming
by Steve Adubato, PhD
Recently, I was coaching a group of insurance professionals on providing direct and specific feedback to employees who are just not getting the job done. In many cases, it was the second, third or fourth conversation they’ve had with this employee, talking about the same performance issues. The frustration level of seminar participants was off the charts. Many kept asking the question; “Why don’t these people get it? If they keep underperforming, we are going to have to let them go.” It seems like a simple question, but for many underperformers in the workplace, there are a variety of reasons for their lack of effectiveness. Here is a short list:
Campbell Soup CEO Engages Employees
by Steve Adubato, PhD
At the beginning of this decade, the Campbell Soup Company was called a “beleaguered old brand.” Its sales were down, employees were not producing, and the company was losing some of its most talented performers.
Jim Smith's Not Alone
by Steve Adubato, PhD
I was recently coaching a top level executive in a major insurance company, whose organization was about to be merged with another insurance company. The new management was looking to make some tough decisions as to who would stay and who would go. They were stressing the importance of the professionals being “excellent communicators” who “stand out.”
Great Leaders Embrace Change
by Steve Adubato, PhD
Great leadership involves many factors, the biggest being how one deals with change. Change is a funny thing. We all know intellectually that it is inevitable, but we sometimes resist or fight it as if this were a real option. But the great leaders embrace change. They understand that while it may be scary and unnerving, change also offers opportunities to challenge oneself as well as members of your own team to be more creative, flexible and strategic.
The Leadership-Communication Connection
by Steve Adubato, PhD
People often ask what the connection is between leadership and communication. The answer is simple—You cannot be a truly great leader without being an exceptional communicator. The link between the two is undeniable and should be obvious to most, yet, it often gets missed. Sometimes people think being a great leader is about being the smartest person in the room. It isn’t. Great leadership is about connecting with others and creating a sense of confidence and camaraderie with team members. None of this happens without exceptional communication skills, which involves more than giving a great speech.