Management

Boards often choose CEOs based on impressive track records—but past performance alone doesn’t predict future fit. To avoid missteps, supplement interviews and resumes with a forward-looking tool: the growth plan. Here’s how. Shift from history to future vision. Ask each candidate to write a concise, two-page plan outlining what success would look like in their […]

Return-to-office policies aren’t just logistical decisions—they reflect a deeper shift in how employees interpret fairness and trust. When leaders unilaterally impose mandates, they risk breaking the psychological contract: the unspoken understanding employees have about what they owe the company and what the company owes them. To rebuild trust, use these three questions to guide your […]

The power of celebrity endorsements in shaping public perception and increasing product sales is well known—but securing a high-profile shareholder is an oft-overlooked way to boost credibility, sway other investors, and even improve media coverage. To attract these coveted investors, use the FAMOUS framework. Foster transparency and shareholder engagement. Celebrity investors need to trust your […]

When change is constant, many leaders default to saying yes to unreasonable requests and goals, afraid that refusal will damage their credibility. But this can lead to burnout, poor execution, and declining trust on their teams. The best leaders practice strategic refusal: knowing when—and how—to say no. Here’s how. Reframe refusal as prioritization. It’s not […]

Research has shown that DEI initiatives can be helpful in improving a variety of employee and organizational outcomes, including access to new markets and innovation. But many recent DEI efforts have fallen short because their execution is outdated. To make these initiatives work better for everyone, start by rethinking your approach in three areas: Metrics. […]

Proactive work—for example, taking the initiative to improve workflows or design new resources—can energize you and create real value. But it also disrupts your routine and drains mental energy, making it harder to focus, make decisions, or stay engaged later in the day. To stay sharp while going the extra mile, take a few simple […]

AI has the power to streamline board operations. But with automation comes a hidden cost: the erosion of board chairs’ influence. As AI takes over routine tasks, it can quietly displace the strategic thinking that defines effective senior leadership. Here’s how to safeguard that power. Recognize which tasks carry influence. Power-conduit tasks—like shaping agendas, framing […]

In a world of constant disruption, the instinct to seek clarity can lead you to oversimplify complex problems. Instead of defaulting to questions that inadvertently narrow your focus, ask questions that expand your thinking and reveal wiser paths forward. Start with these four. What decision today will still make sense a year from now? This […]

Many leaders dismiss empathy as an optional, “touchy-feely” skill. But failing to demonstrate it can lead to low morale, poor retention, and a culture where people withhold ideas and concerns. If you want to drive better results, use these strategies to make empathy part of how you lead—consistently and clearly. Start with a shared definition. […]

If you’re feeling exhausted every Monday morning, the problem might not be how much free time you have on the weekend, but how you use it. Instead of defaulting to passive activities, try “leisure crafting”: a more intentional approach to your free time that improves your well-being—and even boosts your work performance. Identify activities that […]

Managing international teams demands more than simply applying Western leadership ideals. To succeed, you must expand your approach by developing cultural intelligence, which will allow you to adapt to culturally complex situations. Here’s where to start. Adjust how you motivate people. Not everyone thrives on autonomy. Many team members from collectivist cultures perform best under […]

As a senior leader, your words carry weight. So even if generative AI can mimic your communication style, that doesn’t mean you should use it for every message. Here’s how to leverage the technology wisely. Be transparent about AI use. If employees learn you’ve used AI without telling them, it can erode trust. Communicate how […]

As a leader, your emotional tone can shape how your team members perform. Research shows positivity can help drive performance during long-term projects—but timing matters. Keep these two strategies in mind to make your team members feel a greater sense of worth and respect while performing at their best. Lead with early, sincere encouragement. If […]

If your manager runs on adrenaline, frequently rushing in to save the day, you’re likely working for a “firefighter boss.” These leaders create urgency, reward crisis response, and often overlook the planning that prevents problems in the first place. Here’s how to survive—and shift—the dynamic. Celebrate the emergencies that don’t happen. Firefighter bosses crave recognition. […]

Unspecific feedback like “be more strategic” or “push for innovation” can leave you guessing about what you actually need to change. The higher you rise, the more common this becomes—but you don’t have to settle for ambiguity. Here’s how to make unclear input actionable. Ask great questions. Generic prompts like “Do you have feedback?” often […]

Disappointment at work is inevitable, but how you respond can shape your growth and future opportunities. To avoid falling into unproductive mindsets (think “I deserved this,” “I’ll never succeed,” or “How could they choose someone else?”), take control of your next move with these six steps. Manage your emotions. Acknowledge your feelings without letting them […]

Psychological safety is essential for learning, innovation, and performance—but it’s often misunderstood. Here are the common misconceptions that can stall progress and erode trust—and what to focus on instead. It means being nice. Politeness shouldn’t come at the cost of honesty. When teams avoid hard truths to stay comfortable, they miss opportunities to learn and […]

Telling your boss you disagree with them can feel risky—but when done right, it can foster trust, not tension. The key is to push back thoughtfully, with clarity and care. Here’s how to have a productive conversation, not an awkward standoff. Reframe pushback as a contribution. Silence may feel safe, but it can lead to […]

You don’t need a pricey career coach to navigate your next move. Generative AI tools can now offer fast, personalized guidance across every step of your professional journey—if you know how to use them. Here’s how to make AI your on-demand coach. Clarify your direction. Use AI to reflect on your strengths, values, and goals. […]

Not all feedback is direct. Repeated questions, increased oversight, or sudden disengagement can signal someone’s hidden concerns. When you notice these cues, it’s time to get curious. Ask yourself what might be left unsaid—and why—and use these three techniques to tactfully prod for more information. Make it safe for others to tell you the truth. […]