When a highly charged, intense exchange occurs, many recoil and try to avoid conflict. Some get their hackles up. Still others go along to get along. Research identifies three mechanisms that are frequently deployed in conflict: flight, fight or give in. Isn’t there a better way to deal with conflict and polarization when it arises? […]
How many times have you encountered a situation that feels like “whack a mole” or the movie “Groundhog Day?” Recurring problems might not be what they seem. Managing what Barry Johnson describes as “polarities” could offer not only insights, but also strategies to better deal with challenges that arise. Johnson starts with a question: Is […]
Hiring a leader for any business or organization presents risks. Will the executive work out and operative effectively in a new culture? Will staff get behind needed organizational changes? And what about the relationships between new execs and owners or boards? The cost of making a hiring mistake at the top level can be enormous. […]