An effective leader must efficiently prioritize the myriad tasks, decisions and activities that occur in the daily life of an organization, and manage time effectively. Prioritization is both an art and a science; being able to determine what is urgent versus important. How artful you are and how much science you employ is usually an unconscious [...]
This course examines the managerial aspects of leadership and the significance of efficiency, preparedness, and effectiveness in managing the work environment. Leaders must be managers, and managers must be leaders. Both functions involve influencing others, working with groups, and goal accomplishment. Knowing when and why to play each role is a key to your success. While [...]
Contingency theory is based on the premise that there is no template or blueprint for building a successful business operation, or corporate structure. The optimal course of action depends on the unique internal and external variable of the enterprise. The contingency approach to managing a business, or division, relies on the ability of the manager to [...]
Effective workplace teams go through an evolutionary process as they move toward collaboration and productivity. Facilitating higher functioning and higher efficiency means breaking down barriers such as isolation among staff, and increasing commitment to the organization's mission and vision. Teamwork combines a variety of objectives that require component tasks in completing the team goal. Members play [...]
Performance standards set the bar for team and individual achievement, and form the basis for appraising employee and unit performance. Collaboration is an often overlooked element in setting expectations. Some business leaders believe that employee involvement will lead to diffuse or lesser expectations, but research has shown that employees are often the experts when it comes [...]
This course provides insights into the true power relationships in the workplace. While traditional power structures are designed to provide a chain of command in achieving the goals of the organization, referent or expert power is often the most influential factor in determining staff compliance, motivation and achievement. Referent power is the power of a leader, [...]
People want to work for and do business with organizations that demonstrate respect as part of their culture. Whether it is with co-workers, customers, suppliers, or anyone you encounter, respectful conduct has no downside, and is desired and expected in every interaction. Respect isn’t just about words. Research worldwide shows no other behavior by leaders in [...]
Successful work units encourage independent thinking and creative problem solving, motivate and inspire staff, and reduce and eliminate negative influences and activities that hinder productivity and harmony. Employee relations in a large workplace is typically directed by a Human Resources department, but even in large organizations and unionized environments, unit managers must understand and be able [...]
Staff capacity affects the maximum achievement an organization can attain at any given point in time. Key elements include the intellectual ability, knowledge, and skills of teams and individuals, the quality and quantity of resources available to achieve outcomes, and the impact of social organization and environmental factors in the workplace. The key word in this [...]
The skilled communicator enhances employer-employee relationships, commitment to organizational purpose and goals, employee satisfaction and motivation, and a positive workplace culture. Effective communication skills also support self-development in helping to clarify your thoughts, understand the meaning of others not only from their words but also their nonverbal cues, and effectively convey information, feelings, and opinions. Interpersonal [...]
