Leaders today are squeezed in what I call the "business sandwich crisis." If you advise employers or hold management duties in a law firm, you know what I'm talking about. Workplace disputes have …
HAQing Workplace Disputes
Why “Nice” Bosses Experience Team Friction
When I was first promoted at United Parcel Service (UPS) in 1989, I got exceptional management training, including on how to rely less on being nice and more on being clear. I was grateful for that …
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Using AI at Work: The Dangers of the Default
To improve our work performance, business leaders can become obsessed with self-awareness. We take personality inventories, hire success coaches, and sketch out personal SWOT analyses (Strengths, …
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Conducting Fair and Impartial Workplace Investigations
When a conflict requires a formal investigation, it can feel like a heavy administrative burden. If you are part of the "business sandwich generation," you are often the bridge between rigid …
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Case Study: Why Brook Stopped Winning
Brook had done everything right. He was highly educated, successful, and respected—until his business partnership dissolved. For many in the "business sandwich generation," a loss like this isn't just …
Should New York Employers Protest Unemployment Claims for Attendance Issues?
DISCLAIMER: This post provides general information about unemployment insurance protests in NYC. It is not legal advice. If you require information or advice applied to your unique situation, please …
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Reflections from the Florida Creativity Conference
If you emailed me late last week, you know I was in Sarasota to lead a conflict resolution workshop at the Florida Creativity Conference (FLCC). I highly recommend you consider attending it next year …
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How High Achievers Avoid Derailing Their Careers with Workplace Conflicts
Dangerous misconceptions about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) have been derailing careers for years. Occasionally, overzealous professionals inequitably investigated claims and doled out …
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Communication for Conflict Resilient Workplaces
Communication breakdowns happen at work, regardless of your title or experience. Maybe it's caused by conflicting interests in a project or frustration and overwhelm during periods of change. Even the …
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Happy Holidays or Merry Christmas? What About Hanukkah and Kwanza?
Happy Holidays! Is it okay that I didn't say Merry Christmas? What is the "true meaning of Christmas"? According to whom? These are the questions that often arise at this time of year. They arise for …
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