Leaders: When Being Nice Isn’t Nice at All

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LeadersLong gone are the days of the cold blooded business executive sitting behind his expansive mahogany desk, twirling his moustache as he dreams up new ways to torture and terrify his underlings.

Ok, that might be the Hollywood version of the mean CEO, but business today has definitely changed.

Most leaders are encouraged to be human – to engage with staffers at every level, walk through their corporate offices mingling, even participate in staff parties or other events.

That type of ‘level playing field’ atmosphere certainly makes for a pleasurable work environment, and probably places your organization on the list of “top spots to work”.

Can Leaders be Too Nice?

But can you be too human? Too nice? And could you be setting yourself up for trouble by playing the jocular nice guy with your teams? Read more

Ethics: Seven Signs You’re Not as Ethical as You Think

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ethicsBusiness leaders often pride themselves on their ethics, but it’s common for people to evaluate their own ethical standards a bit more leniently compared to others.

In a recent Inc.com post, Mandy Zetlin interviews Mark Pastin, CEO of the Council of Ethical Organizations, for his insights on ethics in business.

Pastin notes that most people are too forgiving when considering their own ethics. “It’s one of the home fields for self-deception.” This can be particularly problematic for small business owners, who are often judged by the value of their character to a greater amount than larger organizations.

To help leaders evaluate their commitment to business ethics, Pastin poses seven questions. Read more

Four Things Highly Persuasive People Do

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persuasive peopleAs a business leader, mastering the art of persuasion is a valuable skill. Whether in the boardroom, a sales presentation, or a company-wide staff meeting, winning over an audience is a feeling of accomplishment.

In a recent Inc.com post, Sims Wyeth, author of The Essentials of Persuasive Public Speaking, identifies four principles employed by persuasive people to win over their audiences. Read more

Six Habits of Remarkably Likable People

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habitsThe beginning of the year always provides business leaders with an opportunity to think about setting goals, and also change bad habits, and rededicate themselves towards professional development.

For some, that means increasing their likeability factor: Being liked and respected in their organizations, and among their peers and colleagues.

In a recent Inc.com post, contributor Jeff Haden examines six habits of likable people, and how they succeed in setting everyone else at ease.

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Five Simple Steps to Boost Your Confidence as a Leader

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confidenceAs a business leader, having the confidence to make difficult decisions and have conflict-riddled conversations is a necessary component of sustained success.

Thomas Edward, the founder of executive coaching firm Confidence Unchained and an Entrepreneur contributor, outlines five steps for establishing and increasing your confidence:

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