An effective leader is able to provide details of the what, where, when and whys involved for any current or future change. In some instances, even providing the how is necessary. One way to do this is to adopt a situational leadership approach. The principle of this theory is that the most effective leaders have.. read more →

In recent years, the impact stress has on employees and those in leadership roles has gained exponential attention by researchers and practitioners. The symptoms of long-term exposure to stress are not always obvious. Headaches, insomnia, muscle aches, restlessness, and depression are just a few of the side effects of stress. The long-term health effects of.. read more →

In today’s workforce, leaders are required to oversee a broader range of generations than ever before. With different generations come different preferences in work styles, coaching styles, knowledge of technology, learning methods, and the types of skills employee’s possess. One of the greatest challenges for leaders is understanding the upcoming generation, the millennials. This generation.. read more →

It is inevitable that most of us enter the work week with an endless “to-do” list and unavoidable obligations. As if figuring out where to start is not challenging enough within itself, ensuring that you are approaching these tasks in the most productive way possible is something many struggle with. Chris O’Neill, CEO of Evernote,.. read more →

You find yourself managing a team of people who work from multiple remote locations. How do you do you supervise and lead these employees to meet your organization’s goals? These key tips will give you some tools to keep your virtual team motivated, feel like they are part of a team and focused on success!.. read more →

The culture of an organization represents the basic beliefs and assumptions shared by employees about the organization’s expectations and values. What an organization values assists in the understanding of what key elements truly matter. These values could include respect, teamwork, customer-focused, visionary leadership, etc. Organizations deliver culture through rituals (meeting structure, customer service procedures), artifacts.. read more →

360 Feedback Moves to Action

Did you know that Big River Group tailors 360 Feedback Reviews to the needs of your organization? We recently worked with the Montevideo School District Leadership team. Questions for feedback were selected by participants with guidance from the direct reports.  360 evaluations were sent out electronically for input. Then, we provided summaries and one on.. read more →

Check this out! John Hall of Mathew Hall Lumber in St. Cloud, MN, keeps these elongated business cards in his pocket. When he exchanges a card with someone, he tears off the bottom & makes a note to himself re: how & when to follow up. The card was designed by Gaslight Creative. The person.. read more →

I believe that being a school board member or city council member is a difficult job. Elected officials are often criticized for their work, for their work styles, and for products of their work. It is the responsibility of school board members and students see council members to work thoughtfully, and make the best decisions.. read more →

In a prior post, I introduced the concept of talent development, and provided a worksheet that can be used to map out the specific growth of an individual employee. Recently, I had the opportunity to help a law firm in Pennsylvania develop a strategic plan. A part of that plan included using the talent development.. read more →