Shows
Management MasteryDo You Play Favorites?When surveyed, most managers say they give each of their team members equal attention, respect and consideration. Yet the research over many years finds that bosses have “in-groups” with whom they have warmer, more personal relationships and “out-groups” where they act more transactionally. In this episode we discuss why that can be bad for the manager and how to make an effort to change that dynamic.2025-01-0714 min
Management MasteryEncore Episode: Three Mistakes New Managers Make & How To Avoid ThemThere are a number of honest mistakes new managers often make. In this episode, we discuss three of the most common and, often some of the hardest to totally avoid making.2024-12-3113 min
Management MasteryEncore Episode: Three Concerns of New ManagersWhile a promotion can be gratifying, exciting and rewarding, it often carries with it new or increased pressures and strains on both you and your family. In this episode we talk about how to deal with some of those new burdens.2024-12-2411 min
Management MasteryOne-On-One Meetings With Your StaffThe best managers recognize that one-on-one meetings with staff members are key to building a cohesive, well-run team. By one-on-one meetings we’re talking about status update meetings where you and your staff member discuss their progress on assignments as well as any other issues they or you may have. Why? Because staff members are critical to your success, both as individuals and members of the team. They’re constantly evaluating you in terms of how much you care about them as individuals and as members of the team. Not feeling that you’re interested in them can cause them to lose i...2024-12-1714 min
Management MasteryEstablishing Ground RulesA manager cannot be explicit or clear enough regarding guidelines. One of the ways that you can provide clarity is by spelling out the way that your staff need to work together and interact with colleagues, clients and stakeholders. A simple way to think about this is to ask, “what specific behaviors will enable us to succeed?” In this episode, we’ll discuss what a set of ground rules might look like, how to put one together if you haven’t and how to ensure that every member of your team is aware of them. 2024-12-1015 min
Management MasteryImproving Customer ServiceFar too often, Managers think that “customer service” refers only to services provided to the general public or others outside of the company. As we have discussed in previous episodes, every department, in every company, serves customers. Whoever uses what your department provides is your customer and how well, or poorly, you service their needs will determine how your department – and you – are perceived and valued within your company. In this episode, we’ll discuss how to provide the best possible customer service regardless of who your customers are.2024-12-0317 min
Management MasteryEncore: Managing Introverts on Your StaffIt is estimated that 30% to 50 % of any department staff are "introverts". They can be extremely talented members of your team, but can easily fade into the background and their potential contributions lost if not identified and handled correctly. In this episode, we talk about how to fully utilize the introverted members of your staff.2024-11-2618 min
Management MasteryMarketing Your DepartmentAs manager, you’re the chief representative of your department – both inside and outside the company. In other words, you are the Chief Marketing Officer or CMO of your department. In this episode we will discuss with this means, why it’s important, and how successfully to market your department.2024-11-1915 min
Management MasteryAct As An Owner: Representing Your Company to OutsidersAs a leader in the organization, you’re the Symbol of the Organization for your department and company in everything you do with people that you meet both inside and outside your company. In this role, you may be called on to lead a team to represent the company for important external stakeholder meetings or presentations. We’ll discuss some of the challenges involved in being an effective company representative in this episode.2024-11-1214 min
Management MasteryPutting Rules in ContextHook: Every business operates within an internal and an external context. The internal context is made up of the business objectives and priorities of the organization, including how it wants to be perceived by its clients and the general public. The external context is made up of the legal, regulatory and competitive environments in which the business functions.
The purpose of policies and rules is to ensure that employees work in a way consistent with, and supportive of the business, as well as the regulatory and legal realities of the organization – that is, its context. When these ru...2024-11-0514 min
Management MasteryAct As An Owner By Showing LeadershipYou don’t have to be the owner to act like the owner. Acting like an owner means being fully accountable for production, commitments, responsibilities as well as building strong, positive relationships with staff. But most of all, you need to be seen as the leader that people want to follow. This episode will discussing Acting As An Owner by Showing Your Leadership2024-10-2914 min
Management MasteryAct As An Owner by Being a Symbol of Your OrganizationYou don’t have to be the owner of the company to act like an owner. Acting like an owner means taking responsibility of your role and function in the company as if you were the owner. In this episode, we will explore what it means to be a symbol of the company as if your name were on the door. In terms of representing your company, acting like an owner is not optional. Depending on the situation, you will be seen as representing your company. In this episode, we will discuss why that is and how you need to do it succe2024-10-2217 min
Management MasteryBuild a Cohesive Team But Don't Forget The IndividualsThe best managers must both build a cohesive team AND motivate the individuals on the team. If the manager supports people and their daily progress in meaningful ways, it improves not only the work lives of the individuals, but enhances the long-term performance of the department and company.2024-10-1514 min
Management MasteryCross Department CooperationOften, departments within the same company will have a competitive relationship with one or more other departments within that company. In the end, this can actually negatively impact a department in multiple ways. In this episode we discuss some of the benefits to a manager of encouraging cooperation with other departments in their firm.2024-10-0812 min
Management MasteryGoal Setting: Developmental GoalsSetting goals is a critical part of being a successful manager. By setting goals for both their department as well as individual staff members, the manager ensures that the department meets or exceeds its corporate objectives. There are two types of goals successful managers set for staff –Productivity goals – that is, meeting the relevant production or service objectives set for the department and personal development goals – that is, goals for improving the skills and abilities of individual team members. We’ll cover setting developmental goals in this episode.2024-10-0117 min
Management MasteryGoal Setting: Productivity GoalsSetting goals is a critical part of being a successful manager. By setting goals for both their department as well as individual staff members, the manager ensures that the department meets or exceeds its corporate objectives. There are two types of goals successful managers set for staff –Productivity goals – that is, meeting the relevant production or service objectives set for the department and Personal Development goals – that is goals for improving the skills and abilities of individual team members. We will cover setting productivity goals in this episode.2024-09-2413 min
Management MasteryInterview With Jake Kilrain on Becoming a New ManagerThis week on Management Mastery, we interview a guest: Jake Kilrain a former senior sales executive who talks with Fred and Rick about his experiences when he first became a manager. He relates his experience of going from being a member of a department to being its head, and some of the problems related to going from being a peer to being the boss.2024-09-1720 minManagement MasteryGuest: Jake Kilrain, Former Sales Executive on Becoming a ManagerIn this episode, guest and former senior sales executive Jake Kilrain is interviewed by Fred and Rick on the challenges of becoming a new manager, especially when it means you are suddenly your former co-workers' boss.2024-09-1720 min
Management MasteryDelegation ErrorsThe ability to successfully delegate is critical to the success of any manager. Nevertheless, errors in delegating can lead to results that sometimes can be worse than not delegating at all. We’ll cover some of the more common mistakes and how to avoid making them in this episode.2024-09-1013 min
Management MasteryEncore Episode 45: Dealing With Feelings of IsolationLeaders often experience feelings of isolation at greater levels than other employees. They have fewer peers, lots of scrutiny, a good deal of pressure, make decisions sometimes without much data, and have information that must be kept confidential. In addition, they have to watch for feelings of isolation among their staffs. In this episode we’ll discuss some of the challenges leaders face regarding feelings of isolation and how to address them.2024-09-0318 min
Management MasteryEncore Episode 30: Getting Feedback From Your StaffNo manager likes to hear bad news. But a good manager knows how important it is that their staff feel comfortable enough to give their manager bad news when it is important. In this episode, we’ll talk about how to develop the level of trust needed to ensure your staff will tell you what you need to hear.2024-08-2718 min
Management MasteryWhy Delegate?Asking yourself “Am I delegating the right amount?” is an important question for you as well as the members of your staff. Delegating is entrusting a task to another person. Here we’re referring to an assignment given that is beyond one’s normal job description. This might be adding additional duties or handling a unique or special project. A key aspect of delegating is granting autonomy and trust to staff members who are looking to developing skills and want an opportunity to grow in their careers.
In this episode we’ll look at the value delegating has for the ma...2024-08-2017 min
Management MasteryEffective Communication: Quantity & TimingWe have discussed in previous episodes the importance of content and presentation in being an effective communicator. In effective communication, how much you say – that is the quantity of your communication and when you say it – that is the timing of your communication – can, at times, be as, if not more important than the content of what you are trying to communicate.2024-08-1317 min
Management MasteryMistakes Managers Make When Merging Departments Pt. 2In today’s corporate environment, the merging of two or more departments or functional areas is commonplace. Such consolidations can be extremely disruptive and can negatively impact the performance of the departments involved. In this episode, we discuss ways to avoid many of the mistakes a manager can make during such a merger. 2024-08-0615 min
Management MasteryMistakes Managers Make When Merging Departments Pt 1In today’s corporate environment, the merging of two or more departments or functional areas is commonplace. Such consolidations can be extremely disruptive and can negatively impact the performance of the departments involved. In this episode, we discuss ways to avoid many of the mistakes a manager can make during such a merger. 2024-07-3017 min
Management MasteryLessons from a Great Sales PersonWho is in sales? Every one of us in every function, in every company, in every industry. Large company, or small, we all have “clients” and we are all “salespeople”. By that, we mean we all need, at least from time to time, to convince that is, “sell” someone on an idea or get them to agree to do something for us. That “something” can range from actually buying your product, to giving you a promotion, to agreeing to help you on a project, or completing an assignment you’ve given out. In this episode, we talk about how to be an outstanding sales...2024-07-2317 min
Management MasteryForging Partnerships With ClientsEvery manager has clients – whether they are inside or outside of the company, the ability of a manager to forge and maintain positive relationships with those clients is central to their success or failure as a manager. In this episode we will discuss ways to build successful relationships with your clients:2024-07-1613 min
Management MasteryEncore Episode: Getting Feedback From Your BossThe circumstances for getting feedback from your boss, whether positive or negative, can range from a chance meeting in the hallway to a formal performance review. In this week’s episode of Management Mastery, we discuss the range of ways you can get feedback from your boss and how you should respond to each.2024-07-0914 min
Management MasteryEncore Episode: Getting Feedback From Your ClientsThis week on Management Mastery we discuss getting feedback from your clients. As we have said in previous episodes, you always have at least two bosses: Your immediate supervisor and your client or clients. And everyone has clients. Being able to get honest feedback from your client is critical to your success as a manager. In this episode we discuss the benefits of getting honest feedback from clients and how to build the kind of open and trusting relationship with a client that encourages that kind of feedback. We also talk about how to have a fruitful feedback conversation with...2024-07-0214 min
Management MasteryRemote WorkLike it or not, it looks like remote working is here to stay. What is currently known about this relatively new workplace reality, how widespread is it how do workers feel about it and what should managers who have staff working remotely – whether part-time or full time – be aware of in order to maximize the positives and minimize the negatives? We’ll address some of these questions in this episode.2024-06-2515 min
Management MasteryBuilding Trust: CaringWe have defined trust to be “when the manager believes their staff can be relied on to carry out their assignments and staff, in turn, believe that the manager knows what they are doing and will do what they say they will do. Trust requires three characteristics: competence, character, and caring. In this episode we discuss why “Caring” is critical in building and maintaining trust between manager and staff.2024-06-1813 min
Management MasteryBuilding Trust: CharacterOne of the most important elements of successful management is trust: The trust of the manager in their staff as well as the trust of the staff in their manager. Along with Competence and Caring, Character is one of the three key elements needed to build and maintain trust. We discuss competence and caring in separate episodes. In this episode, we explain what we mean by “character” and how it is manifested by a trusted manager.2024-06-1112 min
Management MasteryBuilding Trust: CompetenceWe have spoken about the importance of building trust with team members in many of our episodes. Trust, in business, is when the manager believes their staff can be relied on to carry out their assignments and staff, in turn, believe that the manager knows what they are doing and will do what they say they will do. What is required to build trust are three characteristics: competence, character, and caring. We will discuss competence first because you can’t be effective without competence.-That’s the bedrock or the foundation. We will cover character and caring in future episodes.2024-06-0414 min
Management MasteryEncore Episode: InfluenceInfluence is one of the most powerful tools a manager has. In this episode we will discuss What It is, why it’s Important and how can you increase yours and use it most effectively.
Communication is how you move from merely providing information to entertaining, directing, or inspiring others and, eventually, to influencing them. And, influence is more than words, it is about building a strong emotional bond with your audience. Keep in mind, when we say “audience” in this episode, we mean everything from a single person to a room-full. Influence is all about building an emotional con...2024-05-2814 min
Management MasteryHelping Staff Develop New SkillsWhen asked why they enjoy their jobs, young professionals consistently tell us that 3 of the most important things are: “A job that is challenging, the autonomy to do my job, and being able to learn new and marketable skills.” In this episode, we discuss ways a manager can help staff get what they are looking for in their jobs. 2024-05-2117 min
Management MasteryCoaching Through QuestioningIn one way or another, every good manager is a coach. As a coach, you want to make your staff members as effective and productive as possible.
One of the most useful tools for developing staff is through the use of “Coaching Through Questioning”. In this episode we explain this management approach and discuss how it can make you a more effective manager and your staff more productive.
We show how to use questions to help clarify expectations, identify gaps and opportunities, and explore different practices and ideas.2024-05-1416 min
Management MasteryBeing A Team LeaderTruly effective managers act more like the leader of a team than the boss of a department. In this episode, we discuss what it takes for the boss of a department to become the leader of an effective team and why it is important.2024-05-0714 min
Management MasteryTackling A Complex AssignmentA real temptation for a newly assigned manager is to tackle the biggest problem facing the group to show they are up to the job of managing their new department. Like taking on too much right away, this can lead to serious problems. In this episode, we will discuss ways to successfully avoid the potential pitfalls in taking on a complicated assignment too quickly.2024-04-3015 minManagement MasteryEnsuring You Meet ExpectationsWhether you are new to your position, or have been in your position for a period of time, setting realistic expectations for yourself will always be a challenge. It is in your best interest to be actively involved in discussions of the expectations of your boss and of your staff so you can then determine the best method(s) of prioritizing them and attacking them. How you handle these challenges will go a long way toward ensuring your success.2024-04-2318 min
Management MasteryListening To The Wrong PeopleWhen a new boss arrives either through a promotion,
transfer, or from outside the company, it will change team balance. In this episode of Management Mastery, we
discuss how making the right decisions initially will go a long way toward the manager achieving success in the position.2024-04-1617 min
Management MasterySetting Priorities As The New ManagerOften when a new manager takes over, the boss, clients, staff, or stakeholders may have a number of issues that need to be addressed. Taking on the right issues can lead to success; taking on too many and doing a poor job at them can lead to failure. In this episode, we will discuss ways of successfully avoiding some of these potential pitfalls.2024-04-0915 min
Management MasteryEncore: Changes That Come With the New Role of ManagerThe minute you get promoted, you will no longer be the same person to your boss, your colleagues or your new staff. In this episode we will cover these changes and how to deal with them.2024-04-0212 min
Management MasteryThe Importance of Staff EngagementIt should be obvious to any manager, no matter how new, that the more engaged in their work an employee is, the more productive they will be – and the less likely to leave for another position.
But in this time of remote working, the “great resignation” and economic uncertainty, what should a manager be doing to ensure maximum engagement of the members of their team? In this episode of Management Mastery we address this critical
issue.2024-03-2612 min
Management MasteryWhen a New Boss Must Make Staff ChangesA transition to a new leader is pivotal for the leader, the staff, and the business. One of the most important decisions a new leader must make is whether to stick with the existing team and for how long. In this episode, we discuss some of the important issues in deciding what, if any, staff changes to make and when and how to make them.2024-03-1915 min
Management MasteryAlways Having "The Answer"Regardless of the problem facing your team, as manager, you are expected to have the answer. Right? After all, you are the manager. Well, not necessarily. Unfortunately this is a trap many managers – and not just new ones – often fall into. In this episode, we’ll explore why “always having the answer” can often backfire and how to avoid it yourself. 2024-03-1213 min
Management MasteryDealing With Feelings of IsolationLeaders often experience isolation at greater levels than
most employees. They have few peers, lots of scrutiny, a good deal of pressure, make decisions sometimes without much data, and have information that must be kept confidential. In addition, they have to watch for feelings of isolation among their staffs.
In this episode we discuss some of the challenges leaders face and how to address them.2024-03-0518 min
Management MasteryTerminating an EmployeeEvery manager, at some time, has to fire an employee. It is one of the most difficult tasks a manager has, but it must be done caringly and professionally. Layoffs are a special subset of termination. We’ll discuss the process for both2024-02-2717 min
Management MasteryThe Performance Improvement Plan (PIP)A performance improvement plan or “PIP” is a document that aims to help employees who are not meeting job performance or behavior-based goals. A PIP covers specific areas of performance deficiencies, identifies skills, training, or behavior gaps, and sets clear expectations for an associates’ future conduct.2024-02-2018 min
Management MasteryThe Performance EvaluationA critical part of any manager’s job is conducting regular employee performance evaluations or reviews. Obviously, if things are going well, these can be positive experiences for both the Manager and the employee. But, if things are not going well, they can be very stressful for both parties. In this episode, we will cover how to make the most of either situation.2024-02-1318 min
Management MasteryThe Employment AgreementWhether it is through a formal written employment contract, or a more informal “on boarding” process, every new employee must be told exactly what is expected of them if they are to succeed in their new position. Establishing such an employment agreement with a new employee requires understanding, a professional approach and following your company’s hiring system. It also provides the foundation for the equally critical process of employee performance review. In this episode, we will cover how to ensure this important process is successful for both you and the new team member.2024-02-0615 min
Management MasteryEffective Communication: PresentationSometimes how something is communicated can almost be as important as what is being communicated. In this episode, we talk about the importance of presentation – whether written or spoken – in ensuring your communications are effective in achieving their desired goals.
The second aspect of influence is presentation – how you communicate your ideas and what you want the audience to take away or do.
Importance of Presentation in Written Communications: When we think about “presentation” in terms of communication, we usually are thinking of oral communication – whether one-on-one, a small meeting, or to a large group. But presentatio...2024-01-3014 min
Management MasteryEffective Communication: ContentThe ability to communicate effectively is one of the most important skills of any manager. All communication has two aspects – What you want to communicated or the content and How you communicate it – or the presentation. In this episode, we will discuss how to make your content as effective as possible.
Regardless of the purpose or the method of your
communication, there are two components – the content, or what you’re communicating and the presentation or the how you’re communicating it. This is true whether you are communicating with one person or a hundred. This is true whether...2024-01-2316 min
Management MasteryInfluenceInfluence is one of the most powerful tools a manager has. In this episode we will discuss What It is, why it’s Important and how can you increase yours and use it most effectively.
Influence is how you move from merely providing information to entertaining, directing, or inspiring others and, eventually, to influencing ‘em. And, influence is more than words, it is about building a strong emotional bond with your audience. Keep in mind, when we say “audience” in this episode, we mean everything from a single person to a room-full. Influence is all about building an emoti...2024-01-1619 min
Management MasteryBuilding An Effective TeamA critical skill of any good manager is the ability to
build, maintain and motivate effective teams.
It is not an ability everyone naturally has but it is one that leaders can develop over time.
In fact it is not a single ability, but a collection of social
skills that take conscious effort to develop and maintain.
In this episode, we cover how a manager can become a more effective team leader.2024-01-0919 min
Management MasteryEncore: Building Work Relationships Pt 2What is one of the biggest weaknesses of poor managers? The inability to build strong relationships at work. It is one of the most important skillsets that any Manager can have. In this episode, we will talk about the most valuable steps you can take to develop this skill.2024-01-0217 min
Management MasteryEncore: Building Work Relationships Pt 1What is one of the biggest weaknesses of poor managers? The inability to build strong relationships at work. It is one of the most important skill sets that any Manager can have. In this episode, we will talk about the valuable steps you can take to develop this skill.2023-12-2615 min
Management MasteryEncore: Delivering Superior ResultsDelivering superior results doesn’t happen by chance. It happens through conscious choice, discipline, and consistency of behavior.2023-12-1916 min
Management MasteryHow Good Managers Make Decisions: Part 2Making a decision is only half the battle for a good manager. The second half is getting the decision implemented. In this episode, we cover how the good manager gets and keeps their staff on board with their decisions.2023-12-1315 min
Management MasteryHow Good Managers Make Decisions: Part 1The manager’s job is to make decisions. Effective decision-making is critical to effective management. In this episode we discuss the process of good decision-making. We cover the important steps in decision-making from identifying the problem through gathering the necessary information and deciding on the best option if more than one are available.
We also discuss the role of intuition in making a decision and the importance of involving staff at every step.2023-12-0512 minManagement MasteryEncore: Setting a Client-Centered DirectionEveryone has clients. It is critical, no matter what your function, that you clearly understand who your clients are, what your clients need from your department and how to best meet those client needs. Clients can be in the company (e.g., other departments, company employees, etc.) or outside (i.e., those who buy your company's products or services). What is important is that you have a clear idea of who they are and how your department is meant to serve their needs. It is also important that you build an on-going relationship with your client(s) so that...2023-11-2818 min
Management MasteryEncore: Creating a Department StructureOne of the first, and very important, tasks of a new manager is to begin to evaluate the staffing and structure of their department to ensure it is aligned so as to be most effective in meeting the goals and objectives of their new department. Initially, this consists largely of systematically observing and listening to clients, management, and high-performing staff to identify the department's strengths and, more importantly, weaknesses. Only then, and in discussions with their management, staff and customers, should the new manager begin to make needed changes. These changes must be made cautiously, being sensitive to the...2023-11-2119 min
Management MasteryEmpathy In ManagementUnderstanding the underlying emotional and other, often unspoken, attitudes and beliefs that may motivate staff is critical to good management.
The successful manager needs to be aware of and deal with those critical factors. This is what we mean by
“empathy”. In this episode, we discuss how the good manager can build empathy both in their staffs and in
themselves. 2023-11-1412 min
Management MasteryDealing With An Unmotivated Staff PersonThe signs of an unmotivated employee are not hard for a manager to spot and we will go into those. What is sometimes less obvious is the negative impact such employees can have on a department. While it isn’t always “contagious”, a lack of motivation can spread to others in the group.
In any case, an unmotivated employee is not contributing their full effort to the department and is thus a liability the manager must address. In this episode, we will talk about how to spot an unmotivated employee, what some of the more common causes are and the ways a...2023-11-0718 min
Management MasterySelf-Awareness & Self-ControlSelf-awareness is the ability to recognize and understand one’s own emotions, strengths, weaknesses, values and motives and how they affect one’s interactions with people in the workplace and their own job performance. Self-control is the ability to control one’s thoughts, feelings and actions. One of the things that makes lack of self-awareness a problem is that, when asked whether they are self-aware, 95% of people answered that they were. However, research done at Harvard found that only about 10-15% of people actually are. In other words, while a lack of self-awareness is relatively easy to spot in others...2023-10-3117 min
Management MasteryEffective Communication Skills of Good ManagersEffective communication is one of the most important skills a good manager must have. In this episode, we review not only what makes one a good communicator, but also things that many do that get in the way of effective communication including blaming the audience for not understanding what is being communicated, and not following up to make sure one's communication was accurately received and understood.2023-10-2416 min
Management MasteryGetting Feedback From Your StaffIt is critical that your staff feel comfortable with giving you bad news or telling you about problems when they occur. This involves establishing a level of trust with your staff where they can feel that giving you such news will not result in negative consequences for them. This episode centers on how to build that level of trust with one's staff and maintain it.2023-10-1718 min
Management MasteryGetting Feedback From Your BossIt's never pleasant to get negative feedback from one's boss. But how a manager deals with the bad news can sometimes be more important than the news itself. The same can be true for positive feedback. Responding appropriately in both types of situations is often critical to a manager's success. This episode covers how to anticipate and respond to both positive and negative feedback from one's boss.2023-10-1015 min
Management MasteryGetting Feedback from Your ClientsIt is important for a manager to be proactive in developing relationships with their clients (and every manager has them) where the client feels they can communicate openly and freely with the manager -- even when that involves communicating negative news. It is important that managers learn of issues before they become major problems and that involves having an open, trusting relationship with the client. This episode discusses how to build such a relationship.2023-10-0314 min
Management MasteryWhat Talented Staff WantIt takes patience and effort to develop and keep talented staff. In this episode we cover many of the things that keep talented staff motivated and happy -- and reduce their likelihood of being poached by a competitor or another department in your company.2023-09-2615 min
Management MasteryManaging Talented StaffYour most talented staff can be your greatest asset. But they can also need a lot of attention. It is also important that you not overlook talented staff who may be introverted and not immediately stand out. Identifying and developing these members can greatly benefit your department.
At the same time, you can't ignore the less-talented staff and how to motivate them and head off feelings of jealousy or resentment is also covered.2023-09-1913 min
Management MasteryPreparation for & Behavior In a Meeting Called by Your BossNothing can be more nerve-wracking than being told, "The Boss wants to see you." In this episode, we discuss how to prepare for such a meeting in order to maximize the potential for a positive outcome (no matter the topic) and minimize the chances of a negative one. The secret comes down to a single word: Preparation. We'll tell you how to prepare for such a meeting.2023-09-1215 min
Management MasteryEncore Episode: The Importance of Listening In Relationship BuildingListening is probably one of the most important skills a manager can have and most people feel they are good listeners. However, many are not. In this episode we discuss techniques for good listening and why they are important. 2023-09-0516 min
Management MasteryPreparation for & Behavior In a Meeting You Asked for With Your BossPreparation is critical for any meeting with your boss -- especially one you asked for. Of course, you want to be prepared on the specific reason you asked for the meeting -- but your preparation needs to go far beyond that to maximize the positive impact any meeting can potentially have on your relationship with your boss. It will also reduce the potential for a negative response from the boss.2023-08-2917 min
Management MasteryEncore Episode: Your First Meeting With a ClientThis is an encore of an episode on your first meeting with a (new) client.2023-08-2216 min
Management MasteryHandling Mistakes and SetbacksEverybody makes mistakes -- it is a part of learning and growing in any job -- especially management. What is important is how one handles the mistake -- how they get out ahead of it and what actions they take to prevent the mistake from happening again. It is important to own responsibility for the mistake -- even if it was by one of your staff and not you directly. You are responsible.2023-08-1516 minManagement MasteryEncore Episode: Building and Maintaing a NetworkThis is a repeat episode: Building and Maintaining a Network2023-08-0817 min
Management MasteryManaging Introverts on Your StaffIt is estimated that 30% to 50 % of any department staff are "introverts". They can be extremely talented members of your team, but can easily fade into the background and their potential contributions lost if not identified and handled correctly. In this episode, we talk about how to fully utilize the introverted members of your staff.2023-08-0118 min
Management MasterySuccess in Your Relationship with Your Boss is 100% Your ResponsibilityA successful relationship with your new boss is entirely your responsibility. We discuss the importance of understanding how your boss interacts with staff (are they a hands-on or hands-off manager?); makes and communicates decisions; how they like to communicate, and other key dimensions of their management style. In addition, we talk about how to deal with the different management styles.2023-07-2516 min
Management MasteryDon't Talk About How Your Previous Company Did ItWe all do it from time to time -- and are often annoyed when others do it. In a new position, we talk about "how it was done (better) where I was before". DON'T DO IT. Until you are well established and understand WHY things are done the way they are in your new position, don't talk about the way it was done in your previous position. People don't see it as helpful. At best they see it as mildly annoying. Avoid it.2023-07-1917 min
Management MasteryBuilding & Maintaining an Effective NetworkHaving an effective network only becomes increasingly important as a manager advances in their career. Knowing how to build and maintain a strong and effective network is a key management skill. It is also important to encourage one's staff to also have strong networks as such networks can also benefit the manager.2023-07-1117 min
Management MasteryEncore Episode:The Importance of a Healthy Work-Life BalanceThis is a repeat of the episode on the importance of maintaining a healthy Work-Life balance.2023-07-0412 min
Management MasteryDelivering Superior ResultsThe primary task of any manager, of course, is to ensure that their department delivers results effectively, efficiently, on time and on budget. In this episode we cover the critical steps managers should follow to maximize their success in delivering superior results.2023-06-2716 min
Management MasteryHiring the Best - Landing the Desired CandidateOnce you have identified the candidate you want to hire, there is still much to do, from checking references, making an offer, negotiating salary, if necessary, and successfully on-boarding the new hire. At any point in this process, the candidate may be susceptible to a competing offer from another organization. This episode covers all of these areas to help you be successful in your hiring of your desired candidate.2023-06-2018 min
Management MasteryHiring the Best - Interviewer BehaviorIt is important to remember that, when you seek to hire the best candidates for a job, they will be evaluating you, your department and your company just as you will be evaluating them. Your behavior in the interviewing process can be just as important as the candidate's in determining your success in landing the best candidate.
In addition, your -- and your staff's -- behaviors towards the candidate up until they start on the job can also prove to be important.
2023-06-1317 min
Management MasteryHiring the Best: Preparation and Initial Screening ConversationsThe first step in hiring the best candidate for a job is the screening process. This begins with a review of the resumes of interested candidates -- either by the HR Department and/or by the hiring manager. This process removes from consideration candidates who clearly do not meet the requirements for the position, based on their resume. This is followed by a "screening conversation" between remaining candidates and the hiring manager to further reduce the number of applicants to only those worth serious consideration.2023-06-0719 min
Management MasteryStrategy and Preparation for Hiring the BestPreparation for hiring top talent has to begin even before there is an opening to fill.2023-05-3019 min
Management MasteryCreating and Evaluating Your Department StructureOne of the first, and very important, tasks of a new manager is to begin to evaluate the staffing and structure of their department to ensure it is aligned so as to be most effective in meeting the goals and objectives of their new department. Initially, this consists largely of systematically observing and listening to clients, management, and high-performing staff to identify the department's strengths and, more importantly, weaknesses. Only then, and in discussions with their management, staff and customers, should the new manager begin to make needed changes. These changes must be made cautiously, being sensitive to the...2023-05-2319 min
Management MasteryEstablishing Your Department ClimateDepartment Climate is essentially how the staff interact and treat one another as well as how they interact with clients and others outside of the department.
A positive, respectful climate is essential to the successful functioning of your area. A negative working environment can handicap any department.
Ideally, you want to create or reinforce a climate where staff treat each other with dignity and respect, listen actively, ask productive questions, communicate constructively with candor and openness, and where staff feel support and have a strong connection to their work.2023-05-1617 min
Management MasteryThe First Meeting with Your ClientEveryone has clients -- that is who your department serves whether they are outside of your company or inside. Your first meeting with your client or clients after you move into your manager role is critical for setting the tone of your ongoing relationship with that client. In this episode we discuss the mood and tone you want to strive to set with your client. Even if you have been working with them before your promotion, as with everyone else, they will see you differently in your new role and you need to take advantage of the change to...2023-05-0916 min
Management MasteryThe First Meeting With Your New BossThe first meeting with your new boss can be one of the most important meetings you have. Even if you have worked with the person in the past, you are both in new roles vis a vis each other and this is the beginning of that new relationship. So it is important to start it off right. The first thing to remember is that it is the boss's meeting and you need to let them take the lead in terms of what is discussed and how the conversation flows. Nevertheless, you also want to be prepared by doing as...2023-05-0214 min
Management MasteryThe Importance of Listening in Relationship BuildingListening is probably one of the most important skills a manager can have and most people feel they are good listeners. However, many are not. In this episode we discuss techniques for good listening and why they are important. 2023-04-2516 min
Management MasterySetting a Client-Centered DirectionEveryone has clients. It is critical, no matter what your function, that you clearly understand who your clients are, what your clients need from your department and how to best meet those client needs. Clients can be in the company (e.g., other departments, company employees, etc.) or outside (i.e., those who buy your company's products or services). What is important is that you have a clear idea of who they are and how your department is meant to serve their needs. It is also important that you build an on-going relationship with your client(s) so that...2023-04-1818 minManagement MasteryBuilding Work Relationships Part 2We discuss how to develop connections with coworkers and team members which is the all-important first step in developing successful and mutually rewarding personal relationships at work. We discuss the challenges in building such connections and relationships with one's staff. We also discuss ways of doing a self-evaluation of your efforts at building and maintaining workplace relationships at all levels.2023-04-1116 min
Management MasteryBuilding Work Relationships Part 1This episode covers the importance of building and maintaining close, positive relationships with everyone a manager interacts with in the workplace. Good workplace relationships are key to anyone's success. 2023-04-0415 min
Management MasteryThe Importance of a Work-Life BalanceBalancing the competing demands of being a manager and having a healthy personal life requires discipline and planning. We discuss why both are critical for success in both areas of one's life.2023-03-2811 min
Management MasteryThree Concerns of New ManagersAlmost every new manager suffers from at least one -- if not all -- of these concerns: 1) A lack of self-confidence -- that they really aren't qualified for the job; 2) A fear of the unknown challenges the new position may throw at them; and, 3) A fear of making mistakes. We discuss each of these and present tips and advice on how to manage or overcome each of them.2023-03-2111 min
Management MasteryThe First Meeting With Your New StaffThe first meeting with your new staff gives you an opportunity to introduce yourself to the group and for you to get an introduction to them. You will also get a sense of how they interact as a group. At the meeting you can give an overview of your management style and your immediate objectives for the department. In addition, you want to try to get honest feedback as to the perceived strengths and weaknesses, as the staff see them, as well as what they see as their recent accomplishments.2023-03-1415 min
Management MasteryChanges That Come With the New Role of ManagerThere are a number of changes that come with the role of manager. But none can be more surprising to a new manager than the changes in how others around the manager regard him or her. We explore three of these changes and how managers need to deal with them.2023-03-0712 min
Management MasteryThree Mistakes New Managers Make -- And How to Avoid ThemFred and Rick talk about three of the most common mistakes new (and sometimes, even experienced, managers make, and how one can avoid them.2023-03-0113 min
Management MasteryPodcast IntroductionIntroduction to Management Mastery Podcasts2023-02-2400 min