Organizationally Speaking, That Is I heard an interesting interview last night with Ned Breslin, CEO of the nonprofit Water for People on American Public Media’s Marketplace radio program. Water for People’s mission is to provide safe drinking water all over the world. The interview explored the level of transparency that was created when the organization…
Business Management
The Urban Legend of Command and Control Management
An email arrived the other day; it was a request for assistance from a person who is gathering research for his Master’s study program. His thesis will explore, in part, a study of the demise of the command-and-control management style. I was happy to supply the information he sought. After sending the email, I found…
Time Management and the Great DANE
During this time of year, people typically have more on their “To Do” lists because of holiday activities. According to Mental Health America, 34% of people surveyed listed “having too much to do” as a major holiday stressor. When overwhelmed, I use a time management tool that I learned from the late Jennifer White of…
Black Friday and Employee Burnout
Early in my career I was a Human Resources Generalist for Marshall Field’s department stores. Autumn was a busy time for the HR department as we ramped up the hiring and training for the seasonal staff. Black Friday was the official start to our industry’s busiest time of year—a fiscal “make it or break it”…
Change Management According to Granny
Dissatisfaction is Part of the Deal for Change Agents While working out at the gym the other day, I indulged in bit of TV nostalgia and watched the Beverly Hillbillies. This particular episode had Jed and Granny discussing how to deliver some disappointing news to Jethro. “Now, don’t worry Granny,” Jed said reassuringly, “I’ll go easy…