What to Say When…

… evaluating a completed project

November 1, 2015

Wrapping up a project gives leaders and employees something to celebrate. However, don’t get lost in the excitement. Shortly after you complete a project, it is ideal that you sit down with your team to talk about the challenges you faced so that you can learn from your mistakes and improve your processes. Gather team members to talk about these key factors.

… praising a staff member

October 1, 2015
You know that offering an employee constructive feedback is critical to turning around poor performance. However, providing positive feedback is just as important when it comes to motivating employees and keeping them focused on their goals. Too many managers botch the praise-giving process, so follow these tips to make sure you are doing it the right way

… employees attempt reverse delegation

August 28, 2015
Resist the urge to rescue team members when they struggle with an assignment. Build their skills—and their confidence—by refusing to allow them to return delegated tasks to you. Phrases like these will steer them back on track.

… you must decline a pay raise request

August 1, 2015
To decline a raise request without destroying an employee’s morale, follow this advice.

… you are bad at making small talk

July 1, 2015
You know you should take every opportunity to build your network by making new connections with total strangers. But what if you hate the awkwardness that comes with making small talk when meeting a person for the very first time?

… employees submit their two-week notice

June 1, 2015
If you’ve been a good boss, most employees won’t just quit and never come back. They’ll want to wrap things up and leave on a positive note. It can sting when someone quits, but follow this advice when you receive a two-week notice, to ensure a smooth transition.

… you write performance reviews

May 12, 2015
Well-written performance goals energize team members and lead them in the right direction. Adapt these comments to the members of your staff.

… you write performance goals

May 12, 2015

Well-written performance goals energize team members and lead them in the right direction. Adapt these comments to the members of your staff.

… you receive criticism

March 25, 2015

Learning to receive criticism properly—and putting it to work for you—can increase your productivity, enhance your reputation and widen your scope of influence on the job and at home. But first, you have to welcome the chance to hear feedback, rather than dread it.

… customers turn nasty

February 27, 2015
When you can’t meet customers’ needs, their frustration and anxiety may cause them to lose control. Their emotional state can limit their problem-solving skills and ability to follow instructions. Deal with difficult situations delicately by remaining calm.