THE BIG IDEA: Today’s article asks executive leaders to take a step back and evaluate their business with some big questions that underlie the foundation of their enterprise. __________________ If you were asked by someone to define your business, how would you answer? Would you explain what services...

THE BIG IDEA: Supporting behavioral change in employees and customers becomes possible when you understand what motivates human beings to change and why change usually doesn’t happen. __________________ Tom is a highly talented employee with an impressive CV. He had the precise skills and past experiences you...

THE BIG IDEA: Inspiring others doesn’t require charisma; it asks us to relate to our fellow human beings. To become more effective at moving people, improve your ability to take another person’s perspective. __________________ Robert was appointed CEO of a regional chain of banks three years ago. As...

THE BIG IDEA: The study of Cult Brands reveals a wealth of information about human behavior and the mechanisms behind effective social marketing. Today’s article is a launchpad for chief executives interested in expanding their understanding of this discipline. __________________ Do you sell products or experiences? Do you...

THE BIG IDEA: Cohesive organizations and customer communities are created by the same mechanism. If you know what’s at the heart of both, you can build a thriving organization that fosters passionate customers. __________________ Like a hand full of marbles pouring into a bowl, when you put...

  THE BIG IDEA: Cohesive organizations and customer communities are created by the same mechanism. If you know what’s at the heart of both, you can build a thriving organization that fosters passionate customers. __________________ Like a hand full of marbles pouring into a bowl, when you put...

THE BIG IDEA: Goals, strategies, objectives, and tactics are four powerful tools for providing organizational direction and achieving results when chief executives can clearly differentiate between each of them and know how each one relates to the whole. __________________ On the third move of a chess game, nine million positions...

THE BIG IDEA: Mentoring is a cornerstone skill of any chief executive committed to fostering a learning organization with a culture of continuous growth. This article highlights five things leaders can keep in mind to improve this vital skill. __________________ Before departing for the Trojan War, Odysseus leaves his...

THE BIG IDEA: Giving feedback is an important skill for anyone managing people. This article highlights seven principles for providing feedback that gets results and explores ways of overcoming resistance employees have to receiving feedback. __________________ A sports coach stands on the sidelines, peering over all of his players...

THE BIG IDEA: Leaders throughout history have used symbols and metaphors to move people to action. This article explores the significance of symbolic imagery and how it can be applied in business for effective communication. __________________ With wings spanning over six feet long, the eagle soars over...