I was driving, listening to the radio (nothing new there), and a man was introduced as “Professor of English Literature, and a poet” – and it got me wondering . . . The English Literature professor bit I got. But what about the “poet” reference? What I really wanted to know about was his particular… Read More Who are you?
Thinking of sending a flame email, of having a word, or answering back? Temptations we might all have succumbed to at least once in our career in response to a manager we just can’t seem to get on with. But Manfred F R Kets de Vries has an idea . . . “Remember, most bad… Read More Good people . . .
Where might you find that good friend today, leaving aside the obvious choice of your BFF or family connections? A coach, a leader, a team member, a mentor, a peer, a manager, a network, a counsellor, an advisor, a guru, a guide, a role model, a sponsor, a teacher, even a stranger in the right place at… Read More Looking for the right one . . .
A wonderful colleague described how, in a difficult time at work, they had once “trod the path of least resistance” when being managed by a bad manager. A manager who didn’t believe in staff development, who argued openly with colleagues, and who led a dysfunctional team (because they couldn’t manage). And the result? You can… Read More Excuse me . . .
When working with first-line managers, most of whom were new to the world of management, I regularly came across a recurring theme: once you become a manager, your life is never the same again. Let me explain. Once you’re a manager, gone are the days when you can come into the office, hang up your coat, and… Read More What might you do?
I saw this on a recent journey on public transport. Thankfully no one on my trip had a need to press the red button. This communication left me in no doubt about its purpose: quick, easy access, to someone who will listen, and can give us the information we seek. But what does “communication” mean… Read More Mixed messages . . .
Do you often feel that you’re getting it wrong? I ask that question of you, because I coach so many lovely people – especially managers – who are constantly telling me that they are. And while I will always have empathy with your plight, I wish you’d have a little self-compassion . . .… Read More Getting better . . .
No. 10, the last, in my Note to self series. Print if off, cut it out, keep it close.
I was reminded today how hard it can be when you first become a manager. My own experience (yes, many years ago) was of being left to get on with it, managing a small team of bright young things. Lucky for me that they were all more than willing and able –… Read More Bringing it in to land . . .
ChristineWilkinsonCoaching 