Mentoring: Why & How

May 13, 2014 | Leadership Development

I’m often asked by my clients how to start a mentoring program. When I ask them why they want a mentoring program, I'm often on the receiving end of blank stares as in: Why wouldn't we want a mentoring program? Like strategic planning, if you don't know why you want or need the program, it’s pretty hard to ensure you design and provide the right program to meet your objectives. To help you get clear on why you may (or may not) want to start a mentoring program and how to do it, take a look at...

Why I Won’t Hire You – or Even Interview You

Aug 14, 2012 | Leadership Development

That title may sound a bit rough for some of you, but if you're looking for a job - or you know someone who is - pay attention. Let me share some insights from an employer's perspective as to why you may not be able to land that job - or even the interview - for which you think you're well qualified. As a bit of background, I've been looking to hire a part-time, marketing assistant to support me and my team with brand management, social media, and general in-office admin tasks. I've also made...

Be An Expert Presenter

Nov 8, 2011 | Leadership Development

I attended a luncheon that culminated with an insurance expert explaining his services to the attendees. As soon as the speaker turned on the projector to start his presentation, the bulb blew. A quick inspection revealed there was no spare and the restaurant staff didn't even know their projector used bulbs! Instead of panicking, the insurance expert simply said, “I'll just have to cue you more carefully as you follow along with your handouts.” He then proceeded with his talk. As he...

Who is Key?

Oct 10, 2011 | Succession Planning

I had an interesting conversation the other day with a client. We were discussing her company’s strategic plan and the next step: the succession plan. I was outlining for her the basic steps to identifying the responsibilities of key positions when she asked a great question: “Just what is a ‘key’ position?” Her question honestly stunned me for a moment because of its simplicity and its importance. If we, as business owners, do not know which positions in our company are key, how can we ensure...

Encourage Good Writing Skills

Sep 26, 2011 | Leadership Development

Years ago when I worked with the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., I read a report prepared by my Bureau's Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS). I cannot remember what the report was about, but I clearly remember how impressed I was with his writing ability. I complimented him on his writing skill, and he kindly took me aside to give me some advice. He said, “Liz, to be successful in any organization, one needs to be able to write well. Always remember that your writing is a reflection...