Read what some of
our clients have to say
about RCC.
Read more about
our company and
how we came to be.
Your Email Coach,
free from RCC.
Sign up here.
Featured Product:
Building Emotional
Intelligence
Review past articles to
continue a discussion or
find an article of interest.
Read more about Liz Reyer, President of RCC.
Do you have a question
or an idea for a future
discussion? We love to
hear from our readers!
our clients have to say
about RCC.
Read more about
our company and
how we came to be.
Your Email Coach,
free from RCC.
Sign up here.
Featured Product:
Building Emotional
Intelligence
Review past articles to
continue a discussion or
find an article of interest.
Read more about Liz Reyer, President of RCC.
Do you have a question
or an idea for a future
discussion? We love to
hear from our readers!
Coach's Corner--September 1, 2008
Success is fine, but how do I achieve a more fulfilling life?Q. I’m a well-educated, professional woman who has achieved a certain amount of success and financial security, but I find myself looking for more out of my life. I’d like to get new perspectives on what’s working in my life, what isn’t and how to move forward. Can you help?
A. When you’re on a search for more meaning, there’s no substitute for going deep and then acting on those insights.
The inner game
Start with... Read More >>
| Posted August 31, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--August 25, 2008
You got the job--now how do you keep up your networking?Q. I find networking hard to do, but I actively did it while I was looking for a job. Now that I’m back at work, I’m facing the challenge of staying in touch with my network. Any suggestions?
A. Building relationships while you maintain your own energy will help you sustain a strong network.
The inner game
First, think about why you find it difficult to network. Some people see networking as manipulative, while others are reserved and find it hard to... Read More >>
| Posted August 24, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--August 18, 2008
Readers talk backIt’s time again to hear from readers. I’ll share your tips on managing e-mail, along with comments on several earlier columns.
Managing e-mail (July 14): Many readers have useful strategies for managing e-mail. One cleans out her inbox completely once a day, forwarding some e-mails to online to-do lists for future attention. “The idea is that you manage what you can manage quickly (two minutes or less) when you first open e-mail, then you forward other e-mails... Read More >>
| Posted August 17, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--August 11, 2008
Development plans don't have to overwhelm a managerQ. I’ve been told to create a development plan for myself. I’m also supposed to help my staff with their annual development planning. There aren’t a lot of guidelines, and I don’t know where to start. Can you help?
A. The essence of development planning is determining where you want to grow, brainstorming ideas to achieve the growth, and finding the resources to help you.
The inner game
Before you start, let go of feeling overwhelmed... Read More >>
| Posted August 10, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--August 4, 2008
Getting the go-ahead to go ahead from a reluctant bossQ. My boss seems to agree with my approach to rolling out a major project in our company. However, he’s been reluctant to give me approval to proceed because of peer pressure. How do I overcome this?
A. Clarify the source of the issues, gain insight into your boss’ situation and show commitment to his success in order to accomplish your goal.
The inner game
Before going into your boss’ shoes, check your attitude. Delays, backtracking, or mixed... Read More >>
| Posted August 4, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--July 28, 2008
Returning to workplace post-illness takes timing, finesseQ. I’m planning to re-enter the workforce after an 18-month absence for treatment of leukemia. What’s the best way for me to reflect this gap in employment on my résumé without hurting my chances of being viewed as a good candidate? I have no problem being forthcoming about my illness, but I would rather discuss it during an interview.
A. Your situation calls for sharing the right information at the right time and developing a résumé... Read More >>
| Posted July 27, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--July 21, 2008
To understand what the boss wants, understand the bossQ. My boss isn’t very clear in his expectations for me, so I often feel like I’m falling short and not doing what I should be doing. How can I make this better?
A. Understanding and communication are the keys to improving your situation, and it’s up to you to take the lead.
The inner game
Start by reminding yourself that both you and your boss want you to be successful at your job. (If this isn’t true for your boss, then you have a... Read More >>
| Posted July 20, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--July 14, 2008
Get the big picture, then master your tasksQ. I have so many tasks on my plate that I often don’t know what to do first. The e-mail flow is so heavy that I don’t know how to organize it so I can determine my next actions, let alone find time to do them. How can I get out of these trees so I can see the forest?
A. Once you know what your forest looks like, you’ll be able to see which trees fit. You’ll then be able get organized and take action.
The inner game
Step away from the... Read More >>
| Posted July 14, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--July 7, 2008
Envision your next role while growing in today's jobQ. I work as a counselor and enjoy connecting with and inspiring my clients. What keeps me even more motivated is thinking of ways to improve our business. I like being the visionary, but I work in an environment where change can take a while. Should I keep trying, or redirect my visioning to my life, another company or my own business?
A. As you move through your career, it's natural to see new interests emerge. The challenge is to grow while you're still working in your... Read More >>
| Posted July 7, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's corner--June 30, 2008
Be direct in tackling communication problem with peerQ. I haven't been able to successfully partner with a peer. He's friendly in meetings, but he doesn't answer e-mails, return phone calls or attend scheduled one-on-ones. It's important for us to have a strong working relationship and it doesn't feel right to go over his head. How do I overcome this?
A. Being direct is your best bet in this situation. But the tactics you use will depend on the underlying causes of the situation.
The inner game
Start... Read More >>
| Posted June 29, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--June 23, 2008
To motivate your team, loosen your grip on the controlsQ. I lead a talented team of professionals. Recently they told me that I run on ahead and don’t let them catch up. As a result, they feel left out of decisions and are losing their motivation. I just like to get things done. How do I handle this?
A. In addition to making decisions and getting work done through your own efforts, leading a team depends on inspiring and motivating your team members. Stepping away from your overused strengths to develop new ones will help... Read More >>
| Posted June 22, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--June 16, 2008
Use empathy, clarity to get employee to accept feedbackQ. What do I do about an employee who can’t accept any even slightly negative feedback? For example, I’ve been accused of “harassing” him for requiring that all documents be edited for grammar and spelling errors before being sent to an outside recipient. How can I turn this around so that someone who is otherwise talented can be retained rather than fired?
A. When you encounter this type of wall, try to understand and overcome the resistance to... Read More >>
| Posted June 16, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--June 9, 2008
Self-awareness can help bullying boss change behaviorQ. I’ve read the bullying boss columns (April 28 and May 26), and I’m concerned that they describe me. How can I recognize this and change my management style?
A. It takes courage to confront an uncomfortable possibility; this willingness to take a risk will help you move forward into a more constructive leadership style.
The inner game
First, focus on the person you know you are on the inside — your gifts, your hopes, and your vision for your... Read More >>
| Posted June 9, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--June 2, 2008
You can share work, add skills without lowering standardsQ. I find it hard to delegate tasks to others. As a result, I don’t spend enough time on the strategy-related aspects of my job. A co-worker told me I have “control issues.” My boss says I need to stop being a perfectionist. But I feel that I need to do it all myself to be sure it’s done correctly. I’m pretty conflicted here. Help!
A. Perfectionism and control create a powerful, performance-limiting trap. Changing your approach to sharing... Read More >>
| Posted June 2, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--May 26, 2008
When the occupational thrill is gone, it's time to move onQ. I wrote to you last month [April 28] about my problems with my boss — and I’ve decided that it’s time for a change. I realized that I have no passion for my job, and I want a job where I go into work excited and leave feeling like I’ve accomplished something. I’m good at my job, but I feel like there is something more out there for me. Is there anything that you could recommend for me?
A. Change can renew your passion, and choosing your... Read More >>
| Posted May 26, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--May 19, 2008
There's a method to getting useful, constructive feedbackQ. Any ideas on how to solicit constructive feedback from co-workers? I usually get the extremes: thoughtless compliments or aggressive criticism. When I ask for feedback, I’m seeking neither affirmations nor a fight, just suggestions for improvement or additional perspectives that I might not have considered.
A. Candid feedback helps you grow, but it can be hard to obtain. The way you make your request and the attitude you convey can make it easier for people to give... Read More >>
| Posted May 19, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--May 12, 2008
Improve life and work by taming the multitask demonQ. Lately people are telling me that I multitask too much. Even my kids are complaining! I don’t know any other way to get everything done, and I’m afraid I’ll miss something important. Any suggestions?
A. If you try to do three things at once, you’re really only doing one, and probably not as well as if you focused. Learning to prioritize, delegate, and set boundaries can help you be more productive with less stress.
The inner game
To cut... Read More >>
| Posted May 11, 2008 – Comments 1 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--May 5, 2008
To review, here's what we've learnedIt's time to catch up on comments from Coach's Corner readers. Responses have been forthcoming for many columns, but none as much as last week's column about bully bosses. More on that later.
First, a quick roundup of comments about other columns:
Minimizing distractions: One cube-dwelling reader noted that when he really needs to focus, he books a conference room for a meeting with himself. "I temporarily promote myself to someone who has an office by booking an unused meeting... Read More >>
| Posted May 5, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--April 28, 2008
The boss is a bully? Changing jobs may not be necessaryQ. My supervisor yells at me — a lot. When mistakes are made, she blows up at me, whether they were my mistakes or not. I’ve gone to human resources. They said they’d let her boss know about the situation. Nothing has changed. I hate being treated this way, and it’s affecting my personal life big time. Maybe I should just quit, but the job market is tight and it might be the same someplace else. Do you have any ideas for me?
A. Bullies at work,... Read More >>
| Posted April 28, 2008 – Comments 2 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--April 21, 2008
What to do when colleague seems to take too much creditQ. A colleague and I co-lead many activities in our team, and generally we work together OK. However, he tends to take more credit for our accomplishments than I think is fair. How should I handle this?
A. Feeling shorted on recognition? In most situations, there’s enough to go around, so build your skills in attracting recognition from others.
The inner game
Start with inner steps to clarify your working relationship with your colleague and lay the... Read More >>
| Posted April 21, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--April 14, 2008
Caught between her boss and her client, and not sure whyQ. My company asked me to soothe an important but difficult client who had been neglected for some time. After an officially approved and successful meeting during which I listened to the client’s concerns and promised to bring them to higher-level managers (without making any specific promises), my managers have adamantly ordered me to not contact him again. Moreover, they refuse to discuss the situation. The client is very unhappy, and my reputation is tarnished. What... Read More >>
| Posted April 14, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--April 7, 2008
Constant carping can be turned into positive interactionQ. One of my team members often comes into my office with complaints about other team members, the way we do things, just about anything. His opinions don’t seem broadly held, but he does bring down morale. How can I turn him into a source of solutions?
A. Constant complaints eat a lot of energy, for both complainer and listener. They also create a negative environment that can affect everyone. However, with planning, most people can be turned around to become constructive... Read More >>
| Posted April 7, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Rebuilding Trust Can Take Time And A Firm Commitment
Coach's Corner--March 31, 2008Q. Yikes! I’ve really damaged a relationship that is important to my career success. I’ve apologized and made a commitment to improve the relationship (in person) — can you suggest additional ideas for rebuilding trust going forward?
A. Rather than an on-off switch, authentic trust is a dynamic relationship between people that can be restored through communication and effort. Moreover, a trusting relationship recognizes the risk that it can be broken... Read More >>
| Posted March 31, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--March 24, 2008
Q. I’m a micromanager and am having trouble letting go. What should I do?
A. If you know (or suspect) that you’re a micromanager and want to change, you need to understand why you’re micromanaging and develop skills to allow your team to produce while you focus on leading.
The inner game
Whether you’re a star performer who was promoted to management or you’re managing in a new area where you haven’t done the work yourself,... Read More >>
| Posted March 24, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--March 17, 2008
Introverts Can Thrive Building One Relationship At A TimeQ. I’m an introvert who has taken a job in a new, extroverted company. I’ve been successful in past positions, but now I’m getting feedback that my style isn’t effective and that I’m not fitting in with the team. I’d like to make this position work. What steps should I take?
A. Introverts are a minority in the United States, and their workplace style is often undervalued. In an organization where extroverts are dominant, it can be challenging... Read More >>
| Posted March 17, 2008 – Comments 1 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--March 10, 2008
How does a manager move a team forward after layoffs?Q. Our organization has undergone significant changes, including layoffs, in the past several months. The changes took their toll on staff morale and productivity. How can I help people adjust to the new realities to get things back on track?
A. It’s a cliché that the only thing worse than being laid off is being one of the survivors. Yet, the impact on everyone left in the organization is substantial, and when the emotional side is neglected,... Read More >>
| Posted March 10, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner: March 3, 2008
Take steps to overcome uneasiness around executivesQ. I am in a new role that requires significant interaction with executives, and I’m not very comfortable with rubbing shoulders with CEOs and other C-level executives at this point. Besides the usual acknowledgement that we all put our pants (or pantyhose) on one leg at a time, how can I become less intimidated and more at ease?
A. Many of us have felt as if we’re looking up at people at the executive level — not a comfortable position. One way to... Read More >>
| Posted March 3, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--February 25, 2008
Overcoming conflict to build teamwork starts with communicationQ. I have responsibility for a large new project. Several departments that don’t usually work well together will have to collaborate for the project to succeed. What should I do in the kickoff meeting to get this project off to a good start?
A. Problems in organizations often arise when workers don’t get along. Your key is to bring the team together in a way that allows them to leave past conflicts behind. This is simple, but not easy. First, get yourself... Read More >>
| Posted February 25, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--February 18, 2008
New position will require new skill set to ensure successQ. I will be moving to a new position in my department that will provide more leadership opportunities and accountability for a broader portfolio of work. What should I be keeping in mind as I change jobs within the same environment so that I set myself up for success?
A. As your question shows, you know that the same skills that helped you succeed in your current role are likely not the same ones you’ll need in your new position.
What is a leader?
The first... Read More >>
| Posted February 18, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Coach's Corner--February 11, 2008
Driven to distraction at work? Some tips on how to take a new routeQ: I really like my job and the kind of work I do, but I'm undisciplined when it comes to creating structure and following routine. (It doesn't help that I work in a cube farm and am a sitting duck for interruptions and distractions.) As a result, I often lose track of things I'm supposed to do and find myself scrambling at the last minute. Any ideas about how to build more disciplined work habits?
A: It sounds as if you're caught in the habit of letting your agenda be set by whatever... Read More >>
| Posted February 11, 2008 – Comments 1 | Additional Resources |
Your Email Coach
Always LearningEvery day brings surprises. We expect one outcome and get another. Decisions that are supposed to have one result have a whole set of unintended consequences. When this occurs, how often do you resist what has happened, and protest (in your mind or out loud) that it wasn't supposed to go that way?
What if you look at it differently? What if you consider that what happened is exactly what was supposed to happen? Then every event becomes an equal opportunity... Read More >>
| Posted January 7, 2008 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Your Email Coach
What's New?Creativity is one of the most highly valued characteristics around, bringing a sense of playfulness and fun, helping solve tough problems, opening possibilities that hadn't been previously seen, and generating ways to involve people in their lives and work in new ways. It can also seem to be an elusive attribute, the domain of artists and others for whom creativity seems to come naturally. However, everyone has the germ of creativity, and you can create the conditions needed for your... Read More >>
| Posted December 17, 2007 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Your Email Coach
In Praise Of Single-TaskingChecking email during meetings. Talking on the phone while driving. Working at home, and juggling home at work. Multi-tasking is the mode of the day. So often we have more than one thing we're doing...and do they all get done well, thoroughly, and with the attention they deserve? My observation is that things get done better when they get done one at a time. So I'll ask you,
What happens when you focus?
What is it like... Read More >>
| Posted November 19, 2007 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Your Email Coach
Have You Heard The One About...Lots of us lead very serious lives. We're serious about our jobs, serious about our kids, and take ourselves very, very seriously. We're even serious about our fun! And many people think that this is the way to get things done--that seriousness equals dedication. Sadly, though, it is often believed that laughter is frivolous, and that if you're laughing and having a good time, that you don't care and must not be getting the right things done.
What if that isn't... Read More >>
| Posted November 5, 2007 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Your Email Coach
Vanquishing ProcrastinationIt can be easy to put things off. Hard tasks, mundane tasks, unpleasant tasks. Having a conversation with someone about a challenging situation or cleaning up a particularly unpleasant mess. For many of us, the inner procrastinator emerges!
With procrastination, inner pressure grows. The longer the list of deferred items, the greater the inner clutter. And, as you have probably experienced, it becomes an energy drain. That's why it is worth... Read More >>
| Posted October 1, 2007 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Your Email Coach
Helping Others GrowAfter a lifetime of only skating forward, it was time to learn to skate backward and to stop (without falling down or holding onto a wall). So, when the kids went back to school, I started skating school! I went in nervous, excited, jittery, fussing about my equipment, looking forward to it, wondering if I'd look silly--just about every emotion took its turn. And, to be honest, I thought this edition of Your Email Coach would be about growth, new challenges, etc.
... Read More >>
| Posted September 5, 2007 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |
Your Email Coach
Achieving and Maintaining ZestI had lunch recently with someone who told me a familiar story. Work isn't terrible, but it isn't great, either. Every day is draining, and there is little that is inspiring. Many of us are experiencing that in our work lives, regardless of our industry or role. Even worse, it can seem impossible to change. However, you have a right to zest in your life, and it is achievable!
It's true that changing careers and major overhauls of direction are not possible at a... Read More >>
| Posted August 6, 2007 – Comments 0 | Additional Resources |