The Open Door

The Open Door

The term “open door” is often considered a policy. But I think about it a bit differently. While leadership is often defined as a set of behaviors by which one person influences others toward the achievement of goals, it is really about providing growth,...
A Leader You Can’t Trust

A Leader You Can’t Trust

Let’s start with the obvious: if you don’t have the trust of the people you’re leading, you will fail as a leader. Without trust, people can’t put stock in your vision, won’t commit themselves to your directives, and will lose confidence in you. If people can’t trust...
Getting to Acceptance

Getting to Acceptance

Over the course of your career, you’re bound to have a few startling setbacks. In my book, A Leadership Kick in the Ass, I explain why setbacks and failures often provide valuable lessons that can actually enhance your career. The trick is learning to accept the...
The Pressure to Deliver Results

The Pressure to Deliver Results

The pressure to deliver results is as old as leadership itself. Greek mythology tells the story of Dionysius, a Sicilian king, and Damocles, his fawning courtier. Damocles had a habit of going on and on about how fortunate the king was, how magnificent he must be to...