A couple of decades back, researchers studied 84 chambermaids in 7 hotels in the US. Despite working on jobs that involved hours of physical work every day: lifting mattresses, pushing carts, bending, stretching, walking long corridors, the chambermaids believed most of them did not get enough exercise. Participants were divided into two groups. The first … Continue reading When you know the impact of your work …
Tag: #manager
Why your idea may be rejected, how to get YES next time?
Say, you are working on a project and hit a new idea that will make the work smarter and better. You are excited and share it with your manager. He listens to you attentively and says “No, may be later.” You might feel frustrated or unseen, even doubt the culture of your organization. What if … Continue reading Why your idea may be rejected, how to get YES next time?
Monday Morning Meeting
Do you like Monday morning meetings?I do as a manager! For me, it is a good way to kick-start the week: take a quick progress update and discuss priorities for the week.I shifted away from Monday morning meetings, when I got feedback from a team member few years back. She said, “Padma, let’s plan our … Continue reading Monday Morning Meeting
When everyone says YES
You share an idea in the meeting and people start nodding:“That’s a brilliant idea!”“Absolutely, let’s get started.”“This could really move the needle.”“Totally agree.”“Wow, love it!”It feels like a win! If you are the senior most person in the room, it's time to PAUSE.Ask yourself the reasons for YES. There are two possibilities here:1. Your idea … Continue reading When everyone says YES
The Manager’s Paradox
Some years back, my son — then a young boy — asked me a cheeky question. “I am your only child… so I can’t ask you who your favorite is. But you have worked with many team members over the years. Do you have a favorite?” I smiled and said, “Yes… I do have a … Continue reading The Manager’s Paradox
Longer or smarter?
Sonia regularly spends long hours at office. Whereas, Anita leaves office on time most days.🔵 Is Sonia a high performer? And Anita a work shirker?🔵 Is sitting long hours regularly a sign of productivity or a sign of ineffectiveness?🔵 Do long hours show dedication or is it a performance illusion?Truth is sitting longer is not … Continue reading Longer or smarter?
What’s your frontline feeling?
I recently visited an electronics retail chain to purchase an OTG, a relatively simple product. Despite the product's modest price, the sales rep took time to understand my specific needs and suggested a product that fit them perfectly. When I showed interest in a different option, he patiently walked me through the pros and cons … Continue reading What’s your frontline feeling?
Perspectives 