Coach's Corner
Regular columns on workplace issues reprinted from The Province newspaper.
Show Belief in your Employees
Q: While I received overall positive scores on my annual employee opinion survey, a couple said they wanted more coaching. As the Head of Finance, I don’t want to be the kind of manager that people leave the company because of. How can I be a more effective coach? A: Employees are most engaged and […]
Best ways to deal with work stress
Q: Our company recently acquired another business. Workload and pressure to perform have increased. My team knows it’s temporary, however if we don’t manage our stress I’m afraid we’ll implode. A: Your awareness of your team’s ability to cope is the first important step to managing this transition. When the brain is overstressed, executive functioning […]
Startup salary too small- Autonomy, stimulating work may compensate for less pay
Q: I’m working at a startup where the owners keep adding to my workload without increasing my salary. I’m starting to feel frustrated and resentful but afraid to talk to the owners because they keep telling us they aren’t drawing salaries. What else can I do but quit? A: Remember why you joined in the […]
Rewire your brain for 2016
Q: Each year I’m quite successful without a professional plan. I’d like to create one this year to see if I can improve my results. But making resolutions doesn’t work for me. What do you suggest? A: You’re not alone. One-third of all New Year’s resolutions are abandoned within the first month, and the majority […]
Apps will keep you grounded during hectic travel schedule
Q: My new role will require a lot of travel. What tools will keep me on track while I’m on the road? A: These indispensable travel apps are like having your executive assistant by your side while on the road. TripIt is a mobile travel organizer that links your email flight, car and hotel reservations […]
The right apps are invaluable organizing tools
Q: I’ve just moved from a large organization to a small startup without an executive assistant to keep me organized. What tools would you recommend? A: Productivity Apps that sync your smartphone, tablet and laptop may rival your EA because they manage details and information with people anywhere anytime. Google Drive is a must have. […]
Defeating ‘impostor syndrome’ is a must
Q: I’ve been the COO for three years, yet I still question how I got here. To avoid being discovered as a fraud I work 14 hours a day, six days a week. It is draining and I’m burning out. How do I stop this crazy cycle? A: Your fear and self doubt are both common and […]
New position overwhelms manager- Too much feedback can lead to information overload and cause poor decision-making
Q: The senior manager I just promoted is highly capable but needs direction. When I start giving her feedback in our weekly one-on-one meetings she shuts down. I use a supportive and empathetic tone when I am being constructive but I feel like I’m walking on eggshells. How can I be more effective? A: It is possible […]
Travel for work, family life clashing
Q: The travel my job requires is creating conflict with my wife, who has a demanding leadership position in addition to all the responsibility for our five- and eight-year olds when I’m away. How can I make peace at home and still be a top performer? A: You’re not alone. Roughly 70 per cent of […]
Coaching helps employees achieve their goals
Q: One of my managers is alienating his team with his harsh approach and is in jeopardy of being moved out of his role. To bring his style in line with expectations, is making coaching mandatory the best option? A: Executive coaching is an excellent method for developing valued high-potential employees and high performers — […]