By now you’re probably inundated with news about working from home. Everyone (Including us) has advice on what to do if you’re suddenly working from home, or how you can save the world by using webcams. But here is a little thing that will take some of the misery out of your circumstances. Yes, we want you to use webcams, and for years we’ve been giving you all kinds of … [Read more...]
A Third Grade Lesson for Remote Leaders
What does a third-grade science project have to do with being a successful manager? More than you think. One of the most life-changing leadership lessons I ever learned was when I was eight years old. Remember the “dinosaur project?" A team of kids spends time creating shoebox dioramas with plastic dinosaurs and palm trees. I was the hyperactive ginger kid who was more of a … [Read more...]
Preparation, Not Panic, is the Key to Remote Work During Crisis
Getting work done in a normal workweek is hard enough. But when the coronavirus causes travel restrictions, or natural disasters strike business districts, as it did this week in Nashville or during the hurricanes in Houston, everything becomes even more chaotic than normal. The key to remaining calm and productive during crises like this is to be prepared in advance. I … [Read more...]
Feedback: When They Just Don’t Get “It”
What do you do when your remote direct reports seem surprised by the feedback they get? They shouldn’t but some people seem to know exactly what and how they’re doing, while others seem oblivious. What’s a leader to do? Lately I’ve been teaching a lot of our Coaching and Feedback at a Distance sessions., and no matter who these folks are or what industry they’re in, the … [Read more...]
Trust is Easier with Evidence
For a remote team to function well, trust is one of the most important factors. We leaders need to believe that people are working when we can’t see them, that the quality of the work will be high, that people are accountable for the deadlines and outputs that others require to achieve the team’s goals. Conversely, they need to believe that their manager will support them, help … [Read more...]