Many professionals, whether in business, academics, military, government, or non-profit organizations have taken personality or personal style assessments that give them a snapshot of their general characteristics. In today’s affirming environment, some assessments focus only on our strengths, which is important because all too often we obsess about our weakness or shortcomings. Being aware of […]
Learning to Tell a Leadership Story
Although we’ve always recognized the power of stories, over the last several years, we have become aware of how storytelling with a purpose can be an important leadership tool for aligning and motivating others. While charts, graphs, statistics, and facts validate one’s credibility, thoroughness, and hard work, stories give life to the data and can […]
Recognize the Impact of the “Second” Thank You
Gift giving is essentially about establishing and maintaining relationships. We give gifts to acknowledge someone’s life (birthday), accomplishment (graduation), new beginnings (baby) and many other reasons for celebrations or sometimes even condolences. Even when we give obligatory gifts, such as a holiday present to Aunt Emily whom we rarely see but who expects a gift), […]
How Leaders Make Sure They Get the Real Story
No matter how hard you try to create a safe, egalitarian atmosphere in your workplace, you are still the boss or, at the very least, a major influencer. When people realize this fact, what they say to you becomes delivered through that lens. Surprised that you never hear bad news until it’s too late? Don’t […]
WebTalkRadio – Creating and Maintaining a Strong Personal Brand
Beverly Langford appearing on Connie Whitman’s Architect of Change. If you don’t have a clear idea about how you want others to perceive you, they will draw their own conclusions. Listen to get some suggestions about developing a strong “Brand You.” To listen and find out, you will be transferred to Connie’s web site. Once […]
WebTalkRadio – Generational Differences, Technology, and Body Language: What do they all Have in Common?
Beverly Langford appearing on Connie Whitman’s Architect of Change. These three elements play a huge role in how we communicate at work, in meetings , and in one-on-one conversations. These elements of our individual personas influence how others perceive us in our work environments. To listen and find out, you will be transferred to Connie’s web site. […]
Warning Signs that Your Boss May be Undermining Your Career Advancement
You like your job, and your performance reviews are stellar. You’ve put in the long hours, made considerable sacrifices, and now you are ready to reap the benefits of your hard work. However, when you try to talk to your boss about taking the next step, you sense that she doesn’t want to go there. […]
Guest Articles Used to Promote the Etiquette Edge: Modern Manners for Business Success
Shortly after the new book was published in August 2016, the author was interviewed about the contents by a number of national radio hosts. Additionally, Dr. Langford was invited to contribute several guest articles for several eMagazines and blogs. These articles were generally 500-700 words on a topic related to the book. Following is a […]
Getting the Most from Your Mentoring Relationship: Avoiding Three Critical Mistakes
It’s not surprising that mentoring has become a popular means of professional development. The benefits are numerous and significant, but unfortunately, many well-intentioned mentoring initiatives fizzle or fail because the mentee fails to execute the basics of a successful relationship. If you are lucky enough to have a mentor, either in a formal corporate initiative […]
Three Critical Success Factors for Starting a New Job
You made it through the interviews and got a great job offer. The salary was more than you expected. Now it’s up to you to make this transition a success. We all know how critical first impressions can be, and you can be sure that everyone is sizing up the new employee and making an […]