In the workplace, it’s easy to think we have to choose between being nice or being direct. But the truth is, the people who communicate most effectively usually do both. We show that we value the person and the relationship when we lead with warmth. When we follow with assertiveness, we show that we value […]
The Power of Warmth & Assertiveness Read More »
In my last two posts, I wrote about the unexpected power of showing up, whether by attending a professional event or volunteering within a broader community. But showing up isn’t limited to external networks or association roles. Sometimes the most impactful opportunities to grow and lead start right where we work. That was certainly true
When Volunteering at Work Isn’t “Extra,” It’s a Career Move Read More »
In my last post, I shared how volunteering in professional associations has shaped my career in unexpected ways. This week, I want to reflect on a quieter but equally meaningful lesson about the value of simply showing up. Last week, I attended the ABA Section of Dispute Resolution’s Arbitration Institute in Denver. I’m not an
Why I Showed Up: Leadership, Presence, and Supporting Our Dispute Resolution Community Read More »
It started with a committee. A small project. A “sure, I’ll help with that.” Looking back, I can see how those small yeses became something much bigger. They shaped not only my career, but also my confidence, skills, and sense of purpose. One of my earliest volunteer roles was with the ABA Law Student Division
More Than a Job: How Volunteering in Professional Associations Can Transform Your Career Read More »
As an organizational ombuds, I often encounter individuals struggling under the weight of overwhelmed leadership. The consequences are familiar: stress, distraction, inconsistency, and a creeping sense of disengagement across a team. A recent article from Admired Leadership Field Notes captures this dynamic with remarkable clarity. According to Admired Leadership, an overwhelmed leader is more than
Supporting an Overwhelmed Leader: A Quiet Kind of Leadership Read More »
During a recent facilitated discussion, an employee shared her frustration about the lack of timely and clear feedback in her workplace. She described being surprised during her annual performance review when concerns she had never heard about were brought up. “If I had known earlier,” she said, “I could have fixed the problem.” This story
Rethinking Feedback: Modern Approaches to Building a Growth-Oriented Workplace Read More »
In the workplace, creating an inclusive and respectful environment is of utmost importance. However, microaggressions, which occur daily whether we are aware of them or not, are subtle and often unintentional comments or actions conveying prejudiced attitudes, can undermine these goals. In this guide, we will explore the concept of microaggressions and provide practical tips
Understanding and Addressing Microaggressions Read More »
Generational differences in the workplace are more than just a buzzword; they are a legitimate dynamic that can impact communication, collaboration, and overall productivity. Understanding and addressing these differences can create a more inclusive and efficient work environment. In a recent mediation, this issue came up and there was confusion about what it meant. This
Bridging the Generational Gap: Strategies for a Harmonious Workplace Read More »
As an Ombuds, I often hear from managers struggling to navigate conflict within their teams. Recently, a friend confided in me about the quick tempers and communication breakdowns happening amongst his employees. While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, I offered some insights that can help anyone approach workplace conflict with a more empathetic and productive mindset.
Tame the Tension: 3 Ways Managers Can Approach Any Conflict Read More »
In today’s workplace, effective teamwork is key to success. Yet, a common hurdle stands in our way: defensiveness. This has come up in several conversations during the past week and is worth revisiting. Radical Collaboration by James Tamm and Ronald Luyet dives deep into this challenge, explaining how defensiveness hinders our ability to be open
Five Tips to Manage Defensiveness Read More »