RICHARD SKAARE ... I consider myself a head-smart, street-wise communicator. I have two Masters degrees, one in communication. Both taught me how to look, listen, think, and learn. Equally important, I have a lifetime of experience in defining and resolving diverse, difficult business issues that impact corporate profitability, organizational efficiency, and communication. I understand people, processes, and possibilities.
Build an A-team from (presumably) B-players
Exceeding the expected used to be exceptional; now it seems commonplace. Do the job well and, at some companies, the annual performance review could rate the individual as “exceeds expectations.” Perhaps expectations are too low, or do you simply not have enough A-players in your department? They are not difficult to find, but do you […]
Mistakes are Just Mistakes
Mistakes at work are not what they used to be. They once were black and white, intimidating, and your fault. Now a mistake is more oops than ouch, encouraged as leadership development, touted as a growth opportunity, and not completely your fault. Errors do not have to be painful experiences, we’re told, but rather passages […]
Afraid to Decide
When was the last time you waffled on making a decision and, by default or design, let someone else make it for you? Maybe last night? (“What restaurant do you want to go to,” she asked? “I don’t care, he replied. “Wherever you want to go.” “I don’t care either,” she responded. “You decide.”) Decisions […]
Conference Perk … Seminar Investment
Who doesn’t enjoy getting out of the office for a couple of days at the company’s expense to a previously unvisited city — usually in a warm climate — for a conference where you’re promised big-name speakers and networking opportunities? Count me in. But also count the cost – travel, lost productivity, possible loss of […]