The Problem with Inclusion

There’s a problem or two with diversity and inclusion efforts.

It’s just not the one(s) you probably think.

Similar to the efforts to increase employee engagement – if you can just win the hearts and minds of employees they’ll be more productive, have less turnover, and engender greater customer satisfaction  – inclusion and diversity efforts in some organizations struggle with the proper effective positioning (think marketing) and the changed culture required to be effective.

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[Life Back West] April 2012 – “Home Alone”

There is no place like home. And when you want a break, sometimes there is no place like home alone.

Even with just my spouse, our engaging 9-year old son and one spunky canine pup at home, it can be a relief to have two out of the first three leave town so you have a break for yourself. When the ask – “Do you mind if we run up to Sugar Bowl for the last weekend of skiing?”Read the rest

Hiring Season: Can I Be Asked If I’m a Gamer?

Yes. No. Maybe?

You can tell when the economy’s improved because there’s an uptick of interviews. More experienced managers revisit what they’ve done before that’s worked well when hiring and novice supervisors surface this season’s new crop of oddball, silly questions.

“Can I be asked if I’m a gamer?” will likely be one of the tamer examples.

Candidates invariably want to know what can be asked.… Read the rest

How to Say “No” – and Leave the Door Open for a Down-the-Road “Yes”

Open Doors

It happens all the time with work; the job offer, the investment opportunity, or the candidate you surfaced are great but the timing is wrong. So how do you say “no” and leave the door open to return?

Here’s one thought on how to keep the door open rather than permanently shut when you reject someone.

It starts, by the way, by having a clear bead on where you are, and what you’re looking for.  … Read the rest

Got Redemption?

Not got milk, redemption. The substance is different but the concept’s the same.

Somewhere in Oprahtown
Somewhere in Oprahtown (Photo credit: QUOI Media)

Do you have what you you need in your life to grow?

Unless you’re oblivious, a narcissist, or the uncommonly lucky, everyone has career regrets. There are jobs not offered,  “just” promotions denied, and layoffs that should have been someone else’s, not yours (or mine).… Read the rest

Your Career: Is the Boss Cheating on You?

It happens. You think you’re set in your job and somebody else catches your boss’ eye.

They’re prettier (or more handsome) and project a better executive presence, or code better, and perhaps could charm the skin off a snake and sell better.

The next thing you know someone has been hired over you in the corporate hierarchy  (“layered” is the HR term) and that secure feeling you had is gone south.… Read the rest