http://www.odeo.com/channels/2783-TPN-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show no Don\'t let the weasels get ya down... Tips for being a better manager and dealing with the insanity of the workplace Don\'t let the weasels get ya down... Tips for being a better manager and dealing with the insanity of the workplace Cranky Middle Manager Show #145 Responsibility Redefined With Christopher Avery en 40 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 10:53:35 -0800 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 10:53:35 -0800 Business http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25418407-The-CrankyMiddle-Manager-Show-214-Inner-Productivity-with-Chris-Edgar Today Wayne Turmel talks to Christopher Edgar, author of “Inner Productivity: A Mindful Approach to Efficiency and Enjoyment in Your Work”. I also try to spit out a couple of words of Mandarin, we salute a prolific writer who couldn’t pass a simple test, and quote Robert Browning. Not a bad day’s work. Chris Edgar looking mindful. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show and  a big “ni hao” to our friends in China. I have no idea how or why, but our audience has grown a lot there and it’s now our second biggest audience. Anyway today we are talking productivity and mindfulness. As a result, we dedicate this show to the prolific Feng Meng Lung who wrote productively yet couldn’t pass his civil service exams which suggests his head wasn’t really in the game.  Do you procrastinate? This is the show for you because the problem is all in your mind. 3:00 The quote of the week is from Robert Browning . Do you know your search? 4:34 Welcome t... Today Wayne Turmel talks to Christopher Edgar, author of “Inner Productivity: A Mindful Approach to Efficiency and Enjoyment in Your Work”. I also try to spit out a couple of words of Mandarin, we salute a prolific writer who couldn’t pass a simple test, and quote Robert Browning. Not a bad day’s work. Chris Edgar looking mindful. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show and  a big “ni hao” to our friends in China. I have no idea how or why, but our audience has grown a lot there and it’s now our second biggest audience. Anyway today we are talking productivity and mindfulness. As a result, we dedicate this show to the prolific Feng Meng Lung who wrote productively yet couldn’t pass his civil service exams which suggests his head wasn’t really in the game.  Do you procrastinate? This is the show for you because the problem is all in your mind. 3:00 The quote of the week is from Robert Browning . Do you know your search? 4:34 Welcome to Chris Edgar. This show treads some lines  we don’t normally tread but as Dr Phil would say…you know what you should be doing and how’s that working for ya? What does he mean by “mindfulness” and it has an awful lot to do with procrastination because we love to get distracted and aren’t always hip to why. 7:24 Many of us know the systems and have every tool we need to get the work done, so why is procrastination such a problem? The problem is a wandering mind. He comes from the legal profession which would seem an odd path to trod for someone in this field. 11:57 This isn’t about religion, but about practice and exercise. A lot of people have a knee-jerk reaction to meditation or other “touchy feely” ideas but the benefits are real. 12:50 It’s important to understand the difference between Response and Reaction. Reaction is automatic and unconscious. Response is how we CHOOSE to respond to the stimulus. Misery (or procrastinating)  is optional.The trick is to slow down and find out WHY you’re feeling like procrastinating. 15:30 A practical example of how this works…. 17:00 What’s the difference between INTENTION and ATTENTION? Attention is putting our mental focus on something. Intention is taking a big-picture view of what we’re trying to achieve. You can put a lot of attention into playing Solitaire on the computer but are you achieving your Intention? 20:00 Being mindful can be as simple as askingAdd New Post ‹ TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show — WordPress yourself “why am I doing what I’m doing right now?”. Physical symptoms can be a sign we ought to ask those questions. Tension, discomfort and stomach pain are all clues. 23:00 What is “breathing through” a situation? You think by now I’d know what breathing is. 25:00 Chris takes us through a couple of simple “mindfulness” exercises. When you’re thinking about NOW you can’t think about anything else. CHRIS’ RESOURCES Today Wayne Turmel talks to Christopher Edgar, author of “Inner Productivity: A Mindful Approach to Efficiency and Enjoyment in Your Work”. I also try to spit out a couple of words of Mandarin, we salute a prolific writer who couldn’t pass a simple test, and quote Robert Browning. Not a bad day’s work. Chris Edgar looking mindful. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show and  a big “ni hao” to our friends in China. I have no idea how or why, but our audience has grown a lot there and it’s now our second biggest audience. Anyway today we are talking productivity and mindfulness. As a result, we dedicate this show to the prolific Feng Meng Lung who wrote productively yet couldn’t pass his civil service exams which suggests his head wasn’t really in the game.  Do you procrastinate? This is the show for you because the problem is all in your mind. 3:00 The quote of the week is from Robert Browning . Do you know your search? 4:34 Welcome to Chris Edgar. This show treads some lines  we don’t normally tread but as Dr Phil would say…you know what you should be doing and how’s that working for ya? What does he mean by “mindfulness” and it has an awful lot to do with procrastination because we love to get distracted and aren’t always hip to why. 7:24 Many of us know the systems and have every tool we need to get the work done, so why is procrastination such a problem? The problem is a wandering mind. He comes from the legal profession which would seem an odd path to trod for someone in this field. 11:57 This isn’t about religion, but about practice and exercise. A lot of people have a knee-jerk reaction to meditation or other “touchy feely” ideas but the benefits are real. 12:50 It’s important to understand the difference between Response and Reaction. Reaction is automatic and unconscious. Response is how we CHOOSE to respond to the stimulus. Misery (or procrastinating)  is optional.The trick is to slow down and find out WHY you’re feeling like procrastinating. 15:30 A practical example of how this works…. 17:00 What’s the difference between INTENTION and ATTENTION? Attention is putting our mental focus on something. Intention is taking a big-picture view of what we’re trying to achieve. You can put a lot of attention into playing Solitaire on the computer but are you achieving your Intention? 20:00 Being mindful can be as simple as askingAdd New Post ‹ TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show — WordPress yourself “why am I doing what I’m doing right now?”. Physical symptoms can be a sign we ought to ask those questions. Tension, discomfort and stomach pain are all clues. 23:00 What is “breathing through” a situation? You think by now I’d know what breathing is. 25:00 Chris takes us through a couple of simple “mindfulness” exercises. When you’re thinking about NOW you can’t think about anything else. CHRIS’ RESOURCES tag:odeo.com,2009-11-07,25418407 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 10:53:35 -0800 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, audio, productivity, procrastination, Leadership, communication, performance, management, workplace, training, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, middle manager, middle management, Christopher Edgar, Inner productivity http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25395004-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-213-The-Lazy-Project-Manager-Peter-Taylor Today the Cranky Middle Manager talks to the Lazy Project Manager and between them actually get something done! Peter Taylor joins us  to talk project management efficiency, we look at a Roman Caesar who talked a good game and a Greek engineer. Such a classy show……. Peter Taylor, the Lazy Project Manager. This was the first picture I found, couldn’t be bothered to look any further. Probably an example of bad laziness but what are you gonna do? Show Notes 0:00 Thanks for stopping by the show. Today we are talking laziness. There’s good laziness and bad laziness and a man who knew the difference was Archimedes….who did NOT invent the lever but did figure out how to get the job done right the first time. Something to be said for that. 3:15 The quote of the week is from Marcus Aurelius whose work I really like even though he didn’t really walk it like he talked it. At some point just reading and claiming to do research is really being lazy (bad lazy) ... Today the Cranky Middle Manager talks to the Lazy Project Manager and between them actually get something done! Peter Taylor joins us  to talk project management efficiency, we look at a Roman Caesar who talked a good game and a Greek engineer. Such a classy show……. Peter Taylor, the Lazy Project Manager. This was the first picture I found, couldn’t be bothered to look any further. Probably an example of bad laziness but what are you gonna do? Show Notes 0:00 Thanks for stopping by the show. Today we are talking laziness. There’s good laziness and bad laziness and a man who knew the difference was Archimedes….who did NOT invent the lever but did figure out how to get the job done right the first time. Something to be said for that. 3:15 The quote of the week is from Marcus Aurelius whose work I really like even though he didn’t really walk it like he talked it. At some point just reading and claiming to do research is really being lazy (bad lazy) so get on with it already! 4:14 Welcome Peter Taylor, the Lazy Project Manager to the show. Project Management is one of the 4 Disciplines of Highly Effective, Leadership Exhibiting, Project Nailing, Cheese Moving Managers. Can you be lazy and still get the job done? Well according to Peter (And Robert Heinlein) laziness is responsible for most of the progress in the world.  Here’s another guy who understood that the lazy and smart make the best leaders: Field Marshal von Moltke 8:51 Delegation is hard and it’s a discipline to be learned. Sometimes we get dragged in to do the job but mostly we need to know the boundaries. Give yourself space and time… close the door on occasion and give yourself time to THINK. 10:24 This is probably the only management concept ever inspired by Monty Python’s Anne Elk character. Does this show have a dinosaur fetish? Check out Wally Bock and his Dinosaur Egg Theory. 12:24 Projects are thick at the beginning and end, thin in the middle. Trust me, this makes sense, but how you start is vital to how you finish. You can’t get lazy yet and you don’t want to finish lazy. Lots of time to read the paper in the middle. 14:44 A special bonus dinosaur theory: You don’t want to carry a dinosaur, you want to ride it. And if you can’t do that, then eat it.  When you have to establish your leadership of a project, don’t be afraid to look like it. Dress for success. 17:00 Yeah, I know but communication is important and listen to this: 70% of your time on a project is spent communicating and there’s a difference between communication and reports. Lots of reports don’t communicate much of anything. 20:55 The other thick part of a project is at the end- you have to finish strong. Debriefs and consultation with stake holders is really important to making sure the next project goes well. 24:24  Peter’s Resources Hey you can also hear John Warshawsky’s Cranky Interview Here Today the Cranky Middle Manager talks to the Lazy Project Manager and between them actually get something done! Peter Taylor joins us  to talk project management efficiency, we look at a Roman Caesar who talked a good game and a Greek engineer. Such a classy show……. Peter Taylor, the Lazy Project Manager. This was the first picture I found, couldn’t be bothered to look any further. Probably an example of bad laziness but what are you gonna do? Show Notes 0:00 Thanks for stopping by the show. Today we are talking laziness. There’s good laziness and bad laziness and a man who knew the difference was Archimedes….who did NOT invent the lever but did figure out how to get the job done right the first time. Something to be said for that. 3:15 The quote of the week is from Marcus Aurelius whose work I really like even though he didn’t really walk it like he talked it. At some point just reading and claiming to do research is really being lazy (bad lazy) so get on with it already! 4:14 Welcome Peter Taylor, the Lazy Project Manager to the show. Project Management is one of the 4 Disciplines of Highly Effective, Leadership Exhibiting, Project Nailing, Cheese Moving Managers. Can you be lazy and still get the job done? Well according to Peter (And Robert Heinlein) laziness is responsible for most of the progress in the world.  Here’s another guy who understood that the lazy and smart make the best leaders: Field Marshal von Moltke 8:51 Delegation is hard and it’s a discipline to be learned. Sometimes we get dragged in to do the job but mostly we need to know the boundaries. Give yourself space and time… close the door on occasion and give yourself time to THINK. 10:24 This is probably the only management concept ever inspired by Monty Python’s Anne Elk character. Does this show have a dinosaur fetish? Check out Wally Bock and his Dinosaur Egg Theory. 12:24 Projects are thick at the beginning and end, thin in the middle. Trust me, this makes sense, but how you start is vital to how you finish. You can’t get lazy yet and you don’t want to finish lazy. Lots of time to read the paper in the middle. 14:44 A special bonus dinosaur theory: You don’t want to carry a dinosaur, you want to ride it. And if you can’t do that, then eat it.  When you have to establish your leadership of a project, don’t be afraid to look like it. Dress for success. 17:00 Yeah, I know but communication is important and listen to this: 70% of your time on a project is spent communicating and there’s a difference between communication and reports. Lots of reports don’t communicate much of anything. 20:55 The other thick part of a project is at the end- you have to finish strong. Debriefs and consultation with stake holders is really important to making sure the next project goes well. 24:24  Peter’s Resources Hey you can also hear John Warshawsky’s Cranky Interview Here tag:odeo.com,2009-10-30,25395004 Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:37:21 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, productivity, time management, Leadership, development, management, project management, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, Cranky Middle Manager Show, remote teams, Peter Taylor, Lazy Project Manager http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25362703-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-212-Awesomely-Simple-with-John-Spence Today Wayne Turmel talks to author John Spence about his book “Awesomely Simple- Essential Business Strategies for tiurning Ideas Into Action”. We also look at austrian philosophers and cavalry generals with a fear of horses. All just another day at the virtual office….. John Spence joins us to talk about his new book, how to tell when you’re ready to start a business and why he’s the “human Cliff Notes” guy. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome in whatever language you choose, pull up a rolling chair and make yourself at home. This is a darn fine edition of the show, which we dedicate to Col Benjamin Grierson a grand example to middle managers who didn’t have the advantages of family connections or the right schools, took the lousy projects and still managed to have fine careers. 3:13 The quote of the week is from Ludwig Wittgenstein. The simple is often hiding in plain sight, or we pretend it is so we don’t have to do what we know we should... Today Wayne Turmel talks to author John Spence about his book “Awesomely Simple- Essential Business Strategies for tiurning Ideas Into Action”. We also look at austrian philosophers and cavalry generals with a fear of horses. All just another day at the virtual office….. John Spence joins us to talk about his new book, how to tell when you’re ready to start a business and why he’s the “human Cliff Notes” guy. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome in whatever language you choose, pull up a rolling chair and make yourself at home. This is a darn fine edition of the show, which we dedicate to Col Benjamin Grierson a grand example to middle managers who didn’t have the advantages of family connections or the right schools, took the lousy projects and still managed to have fine careers. 3:13 The quote of the week is from Ludwig Wittgenstein. The simple is often hiding in plain sight, or we pretend it is so we don’t have to do what we know we should. 3:45 A shameless commercial for www.greatwebmeetings.com. check out all the free resources as well as our Course Offerings. Tell the training people at your company about us, no matter where you are in the world. 4:55 Welcome John Spence to the show… so what’s the difference between simple and easy? Simple is easy to UNDERSTAND but that doesn’t mean the DOING isn’t going to be a real bear. 6:45 Business owners constantly claim they want their employees and managers to have an “ownership” mentality. We expose one or two basic flaws with that approach. 9:00 How is having a “vivid vision” different than having a fancy vision statement? Can you state it simply? Do you know what it means? After 200 shows my tolerance for consultant speak is about zero so I hold his feet to the fire. 13:15 It’s not every show that will quote Charlie Daniels and Steven Covey in the same conversation, but that’s why you listen to us….what’s the difference between having a “sense of urgency” and losing sense of what’s important instead of urgent? Oh, and I finally tell a story that has changed my training and speaking career, not to mention how I tackle emergencies. 21:00 John is the Executive in Residence at the University of Central Florida’s Technology Incubator. How do you know if you should stay gainfully employed and what’s the litmus test for going out on your own? Here’s the answer: How do you feel Monday morning? How obsessed are you with your idea and where you want to go? John’s Resources Joe Calloway Readitfor.me Alltop.com Change This Manifesto Today Wayne Turmel talks to author John Spence about his book “Awesomely Simple- Essential Business Strategies for tiurning Ideas Into Action”. We also look at austrian philosophers and cavalry generals with a fear of horses. All just another day at the virtual office….. John Spence joins us to talk about his new book, how to tell when you’re ready to start a business and why he’s the “human Cliff Notes” guy. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome in whatever language you choose, pull up a rolling chair and make yourself at home. This is a darn fine edition of the show, which we dedicate to Col Benjamin Grierson a grand example to middle managers who didn’t have the advantages of family connections or the right schools, took the lousy projects and still managed to have fine careers. 3:13 The quote of the week is from Ludwig Wittgenstein. The simple is often hiding in plain sight, or we pretend it is so we don’t have to do what we know we should. 3:45 A shameless commercial for www.greatwebmeetings.com. check out all the free resources as well as our Course Offerings. Tell the training people at your company about us, no matter where you are in the world. 4:55 Welcome John Spence to the show… so what’s the difference between simple and easy? Simple is easy to UNDERSTAND but that doesn’t mean the DOING isn’t going to be a real bear. 6:45 Business owners constantly claim they want their employees and managers to have an “ownership” mentality. We expose one or two basic flaws with that approach. 9:00 How is having a “vivid vision” different than having a fancy vision statement? Can you state it simply? Do you know what it means? After 200 shows my tolerance for consultant speak is about zero so I hold his feet to the fire. 13:15 It’s not every show that will quote Charlie Daniels and Steven Covey in the same conversation, but that’s why you listen to us….what’s the difference between having a “sense of urgency” and losing sense of what’s important instead of urgent? Oh, and I finally tell a story that has changed my training and speaking career, not to mention how I tackle emergencies. 21:00 John is the Executive in Residence at the University of Central Florida’s Technology Incubator. How do you know if you should stay gainfully employed and what’s the litmus test for going out on your own? Here’s the answer: How do you feel Monday morning? How obsessed are you with your idea and where you want to go? John’s Resources Joe Calloway Readitfor.me Alltop.com Change This Manifesto tag:odeo.com,2009-10-24,25362703 Sat, 24 Oct 2009 04:37:45 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, productivity, Leadership, career, hr, development, management, workplace, training, manager, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, middle manager, Cranky Middle Manager Show, remote teams, Awesomely Simple, John Spence http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25303264-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-211-Don%E2%80%99t-be-THAT-boss-Mark-Wiskup Today Wayne Turmel talks to Mark Wiskup about his new book-“Don’t Be That Boss-  How Great Communicators Get the Most Out of Their Employees and Their Careers”. We also look at someone who shouldn’t have been THAT king, and quote Turks about listening skills. Not just another training workshop today boys and girls….. The incredibly energetic Mark Wiskup talks to us about good bosses communicate, and bad ones just give orders… Show Notes 0:00 Hello everyone, a bit late but still hanging in here. Today we talk to Mark Wiskup about the communication skills managers need to be effective, and typically we dedicate this show to Raynald of Chatillon who knew absolutely nothing about that and lost his head as a result. We also revisit an old vaudeville joke with a point… you know what bad bosses do, DON’T DO THAT. 3:50 The quote of the week is from the Turks…or so I’m told but I’m always suspicious. It was probably Seth Godin... Today Wayne Turmel talks to Mark Wiskup about his new book-“Don’t Be That Boss-  How Great Communicators Get the Most Out of Their Employees and Their Careers”. We also look at someone who shouldn’t have been THAT king, and quote Turks about listening skills. Not just another training workshop today boys and girls….. The incredibly energetic Mark Wiskup talks to us about good bosses communicate, and bad ones just give orders… Show Notes 0:00 Hello everyone, a bit late but still hanging in here. Today we talk to Mark Wiskup about the communication skills managers need to be effective, and typically we dedicate this show to Raynald of Chatillon who knew absolutely nothing about that and lost his head as a result. We also revisit an old vaudeville joke with a point… you know what bad bosses do, DON’T DO THAT. 3:50 The quote of the week is from the Turks…or so I’m told but I’m always suspicious. It was probably Seth Godin, he claims credit for everything these days. What is your listening/pondering/speaking ratio? 4:15 Welcome to Mark…. so what boss do you NOT want to be? A boss who totally leaves out of the equation that you have to connect with your employees. They don’t have to love you but they do have to be willing to listen to you. 7:00 Here’s a hard lesson for all of us… being right has very little to do with being a boss. It’s your ability to influence and convince others. That’s not data, that’s communication. Oh, and communication is more than just transmission of messages. 10:46 Good heavens something we haven’t talked about before- managers dealing with vendors and why good communication is so critical in that relationship. 14:11 We often believe in if/then… IF I nag enough people WILL do whatever the heck it is I want. Yeah, how’s that working for ya? 17:40 How do we maintain communication that works when we aren’t around…it’s simple. Ask them personal questions and at least pretend to care about the answer. Seriously. If you’re not willing to put in the effort, don’t complain when you can’t connect. 22:50 When you’re talking to an employee or vendor and they’re complaining… spend some time to find out what they want in place? Drop the business speak and define what you want. Mark’s Resources Arment/Dietrich’s Newsletter Execution, by Larry Bossidy Anything by John LeCarre Today Wayne Turmel talks to Mark Wiskup about his new book-“Don’t Be That Boss-  How Great Communicators Get the Most Out of Their Employees and Their Careers”. We also look at someone who shouldn’t have been THAT king, and quote Turks about listening skills. Not just another training workshop today boys and girls….. The incredibly energetic Mark Wiskup talks to us about good bosses communicate, and bad ones just give orders… Show Notes 0:00 Hello everyone, a bit late but still hanging in here. Today we talk to Mark Wiskup about the communication skills managers need to be effective, and typically we dedicate this show to Raynald of Chatillon who knew absolutely nothing about that and lost his head as a result. We also revisit an old vaudeville joke with a point… you know what bad bosses do, DON’T DO THAT. 3:50 The quote of the week is from the Turks…or so I’m told but I’m always suspicious. It was probably Seth Godin, he claims credit for everything these days. What is your listening/pondering/speaking ratio? 4:15 Welcome to Mark…. so what boss do you NOT want to be? A boss who totally leaves out of the equation that you have to connect with your employees. They don’t have to love you but they do have to be willing to listen to you. 7:00 Here’s a hard lesson for all of us… being right has very little to do with being a boss. It’s your ability to influence and convince others. That’s not data, that’s communication. Oh, and communication is more than just transmission of messages. 10:46 Good heavens something we haven’t talked about before- managers dealing with vendors and why good communication is so critical in that relationship. 14:11 We often believe in if/then… IF I nag enough people WILL do whatever the heck it is I want. Yeah, how’s that working for ya? 17:40 How do we maintain communication that works when we aren’t around…it’s simple. Ask them personal questions and at least pretend to care about the answer. Seriously. If you’re not willing to put in the effort, don’t complain when you can’t connect. 22:50 When you’re talking to an employee or vendor and they’re complaining… spend some time to find out what they want in place? Drop the business speak and define what you want. Mark’s Resources Arment/Dietrich’s Newsletter Execution, by Larry Bossidy Anything by John LeCarre tag:odeo.com,2009-10-17,25303264 Sat, 17 Oct 2009 08:14:07 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, productivity, communication, career, hr, development, Humor, management, employees, project management, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, middle manager, employee engagement, Vendors, Cranky Middle Manager Show http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25259871-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-210-Just-Ask-with-Gary-Cohen Today we talk to Gary Cohen about his book “Just Ask Leadership- Why Great Managers Always Ask the Right Questions”. Well we have some questions for HIM. Also, we look at Sir Percival who didn’t ask enough questions, Voltaire (who asked a lot of them, usually in annoying fashion) and a webinar workshop for sales people who don’t ask enough before they start talking. Gary Cohen, author of “Just Ask Leadership” Hey, don’t forget our webinar workshop on “How to Conduct Great Web Demos and Sales Calls”. Click here for more information and to register. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show one and all. Today we dedicate this episode to Sir Percival who could have made the Grail quest a lot shorter and saved us Sean Connery as Arthur and Richard Gere as Lancelot. Oh well….. Too late now. 2:25 The quote of the week is from Voltaire. What do your questions say about you? 3:20 Welcome Gary Cohen to the show. What does he mean by &#822... Today we talk to Gary Cohen about his book “Just Ask Leadership- Why Great Managers Always Ask the Right Questions”. Well we have some questions for HIM. Also, we look at Sir Percival who didn’t ask enough questions, Voltaire (who asked a lot of them, usually in annoying fashion) and a webinar workshop for sales people who don’t ask enough before they start talking. Gary Cohen, author of “Just Ask Leadership” Hey, don’t forget our webinar workshop on “How to Conduct Great Web Demos and Sales Calls”. Click here for more information and to register. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show one and all. Today we dedicate this episode to Sir Percival who could have made the Grail quest a lot shorter and saved us Sean Connery as Arthur and Richard Gere as Lancelot. Oh well….. Too late now. 2:25 The quote of the week is from Voltaire. What do your questions say about you? 3:20 Welcome Gary Cohen to the show. What does he mean by “asking great questions”? It turns out there might not be any silly questions, but there are destructive, negative questions. We get an example of a good question. 5:50 Drucker said the leader of the past knew how to tell, the leader of the future will need to know how to ask. I’ll let Gary take it from here…. 8:35 What are some of the questions that get us visibility to the rest of the organizations? “what is it that our customers expect of us?” and you can ask that of any person in the organization. 11:20 Are you managing the future or are you managing the present? It’s so easy to get caught up in day to day stuff you don’t really move forward. 14:45 As we get promoted, it’s hard to shift to being responsible for more time.  Yeah, we needed our job to be harder. 18:45 Therapy time for Wayne…. my mother always told me “It’s not what you said, it’s how you said it”. Apparently the same thing is true for questions. 22:00 What about remote teams? How can we ask questions that create accountability between teammates? Start with understanding the goal, rather than the barriers. Gary’s Resources Leading Up On Intelligence Predictably Irrational Don’t let the weasels get you down! Today we talk to Gary Cohen about his book “Just Ask Leadership- Why Great Managers Always Ask the Right Questions”. Well we have some questions for HIM. Also, we look at Sir Percival who didn’t ask enough questions, Voltaire (who asked a lot of them, usually in annoying fashion) and a webinar workshop for sales people who don’t ask enough before they start talking. Gary Cohen, author of “Just Ask Leadership” Hey, don’t forget our webinar workshop on “How to Conduct Great Web Demos and Sales Calls”. Click here for more information and to register. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show one and all. Today we dedicate this episode to Sir Percival who could have made the Grail quest a lot shorter and saved us Sean Connery as Arthur and Richard Gere as Lancelot. Oh well….. Too late now. 2:25 The quote of the week is from Voltaire. What do your questions say about you? 3:20 Welcome Gary Cohen to the show. What does he mean by “asking great questions”? It turns out there might not be any silly questions, but there are destructive, negative questions. We get an example of a good question. 5:50 Drucker said the leader of the past knew how to tell, the leader of the future will need to know how to ask. I’ll let Gary take it from here…. 8:35 What are some of the questions that get us visibility to the rest of the organizations? “what is it that our customers expect of us?” and you can ask that of any person in the organization. 11:20 Are you managing the future or are you managing the present? It’s so easy to get caught up in day to day stuff you don’t really move forward. 14:45 As we get promoted, it’s hard to shift to being responsible for more time.  Yeah, we needed our job to be harder. 18:45 Therapy time for Wayne…. my mother always told me “It’s not what you said, it’s how you said it”. Apparently the same thing is true for questions. 22:00 What about remote teams? How can we ask questions that create accountability between teammates? Start with understanding the goal, rather than the barriers. Gary’s Resources Leading Up On Intelligence Predictably Irrational Don’t let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-10-09,25259871 Fri, 09 Oct 2009 09:51:26 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, Leadership, communication, development, management, workplace, questions, teams, project management, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, middle management, employee engagement, Gary Cohen http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25191378-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-209-Leap-with-Rick-Smith Today Wayne Turmel talks to Rick Smith, Author of The Leap- How 3 Simple Changes Can Propel Your Career From Good to Great”. We also shamelessly plug some upcoming webinars, salute King David’s career plan and take a new assessment tool. Just another typical Cranky Middle Manager Show. Rick Smith, author of The Leap joins us. Don’t forget our upcoming webinar workshop: How to Create and Manage Remote Teams September 30, North American version click here for info and to register October 1, Asia/Pacific version click here for info and to register New Webinar Workshop: How to Conduct Great Web Demos and Sales Calls Click here to register and get more information. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today we dedicate this episode to King David of Judah and later of Israel Shepherd to King might seem a bit of a career leap but if you plan it right, anything is possible. 4:19 The quote of the week is from Ella Wheeler Wilcox who said that nothing can hinder the firm res... Today Wayne Turmel talks to Rick Smith, Author of The Leap- How 3 Simple Changes Can Propel Your Career From Good to Great”. We also shamelessly plug some upcoming webinars, salute King David’s career plan and take a new assessment tool. Just another typical Cranky Middle Manager Show. Rick Smith, author of The Leap joins us. Don’t forget our upcoming webinar workshop: How to Create and Manage Remote Teams September 30, North American version click here for info and to register October 1, Asia/Pacific version click here for info and to register New Webinar Workshop: How to Conduct Great Web Demos and Sales Calls Click here to register and get more information. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today we dedicate this episode to King David of Judah and later of Israel Shepherd to King might seem a bit of a career leap but if you plan it right, anything is possible. 4:19 The quote of the week is from Ella Wheeler Wilcox who said that nothing can hinder the firm resolve of a determined soul. With poetry like hers, she should know. 4:50 Welcome Rick Smith to the show. Before we talk about our careers, we should define the difference between a job and a career. The job is the list of activities, the career is the longer journey. Clear now? Some of us set out to be managers, some have managership thrust upon them. Rick is one of them so he can relate. 8:54 So often the logical path might lead somewhere you don’t want to go, but you can “leap” to something else. Rick gives us his own story. Volunteer for things they’d never consider you for is a good start. 12:15 A good example of someone who embodies this is Silvia Lagnado who started Dove’s Campaign for Real Beauty. 16:28 So what are the three myths that hold people back? I have to fix myself… that I have to change inside. What you really have to do is become more of who you really are You don’t need to go it alone…. Big selfless ideas attract a supportive team that will help you You don’t need to take dramatic risks….. 18:03 Rick talks about finding your “Primary Color”… it’s kind of a fun assessment tool You can take that test here. For the record I”m a ‘Purple Mountain Majesty” (Far left top corner) Big on curiosity and leadership, not so much with the execution. 24:40 Why is Curiosity such an important part of making “The Leap”? Rick’s Resources Tim Ferris’  Four Hour Workweek Blog Penelope Trunk’s Brazen Careerist Blog Leapbuilder.com for all Rick’s stuff Today Wayne Turmel talks to Rick Smith, Author of The Leap- How 3 Simple Changes Can Propel Your Career From Good to Great”. We also shamelessly plug some upcoming webinars, salute King David’s career plan and take a new assessment tool. Just another typical Cranky Middle Manager Show. Rick Smith, author of The Leap joins us. Don’t forget our upcoming webinar workshop: How to Create and Manage Remote Teams September 30, North American version click here for info and to register October 1, Asia/Pacific version click here for info and to register New Webinar Workshop: How to Conduct Great Web Demos and Sales Calls Click here to register and get more information. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today we dedicate this episode to King David of Judah and later of Israel Shepherd to King might seem a bit of a career leap but if you plan it right, anything is possible. 4:19 The quote of the week is from Ella Wheeler Wilcox who said that nothing can hinder the firm resolve of a determined soul. With poetry like hers, she should know. 4:50 Welcome Rick Smith to the show. Before we talk about our careers, we should define the difference between a job and a career. The job is the list of activities, the career is the longer journey. Clear now? Some of us set out to be managers, some have managership thrust upon them. Rick is one of them so he can relate. 8:54 So often the logical path might lead somewhere you don’t want to go, but you can “leap” to something else. Rick gives us his own story. Volunteer for things they’d never consider you for is a good start. 12:15 A good example of someone who embodies this is Silvia Lagnado who started Dove’s Campaign for Real Beauty. 16:28 So what are the three myths that hold people back? I have to fix myself… that I have to change inside. What you really have to do is become more of who you really are You don’t need to go it alone…. Big selfless ideas attract a supportive team that will help you You don’t need to take dramatic risks….. 18:03 Rick talks about finding your “Primary Color”… it’s kind of a fun assessment tool You can take that test here. For the record I”m a ‘Purple Mountain Majesty” (Far left top corner) Big on curiosity and leadership, not so much with the execution. 24:40 Why is Curiosity such an important part of making “The Leap”? Rick’s Resources Tim Ferris’  Four Hour Workweek Blog Penelope Trunk’s Brazen Careerist Blog Leapbuilder.com for all Rick’s stuff tag:odeo.com,2009-09-26,25191378 Sat, 26 Sep 2009 12:41:39 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, audio, career, management, leap, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, middle management, Cranky Middle Manager Show, Rick smith http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25152397-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-208-Just-Listen-Marc-Goulston Today Wayne Turmel gets a return visit from Dr Marc Goulston about the importance of listening skills and how to develop them. Also, a shameless plug for a webinar workshop and a quote from Igor Stravinski. Why do Americans always giggle when they hear the name Igor? Marc Goulston makes a return visit to the show Don’t forget to support  the show with your copy of 125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to your oasis of sanity, The Cranky Middle Manager Show. No dedication this week, just an offer for you to attend our How to Create and Manage Remote Teams webinar workshop. Register early to save money. Click here to learn about our Sept 30th North America/UK edition Click here for the October 1st India/Asia/Australia edition 3:20 The quote of the week is from Igor Stravinski... do you listen or hear? One of them is no big deal. 3:55 Welcome to Marc Goulston, author of Just Listen- The Secret to Getting Through to Absolutely Anyone. Listening skills is one of ... Today Wayne Turmel gets a return visit from Dr Marc Goulston about the importance of listening skills and how to develop them. Also, a shameless plug for a webinar workshop and a quote from Igor Stravinski. Why do Americans always giggle when they hear the name Igor? Marc Goulston makes a return visit to the show Don’t forget to support  the show with your copy of 125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to your oasis of sanity, The Cranky Middle Manager Show. No dedication this week, just an offer for you to attend our How to Create and Manage Remote Teams webinar workshop. Register early to save money. Click here to learn about our Sept 30th North America/UK edition Click here for the October 1st India/Asia/Australia edition 3:20 The quote of the week is from Igor Stravinski... do you listen or hear? One of them is no big deal. 3:55 Welcome to Marc Goulston, author of Just Listen- The Secret to Getting Through to Absolutely Anyone. Listening skills is one of those things everyone talks about and we seldom master. It’s really about putting your agenda aside. “The purest form of listening is to listen without memory or desire”. Dang I like that one. 8:38 These skills work on large and small scales, including the FBI hostage negotiators he trains.  He shows us a great way to check for understanding, even if I sometimes feel a bit patronized. 13:39 It’s hard to put aside our own agendas when listening but the impact is huge. He gives us a great way to position an order so that people don’t immediately push back. Science shows us you can’t argue someone into changing their mind… it’s that darned mirror neuron receptor deficit. Check out this article in the Huffington Post. He tells a great story at that point. 20:30 The ability to clearly analyze the situation and respond appropriately in the moment takes courage. You can do what you need to do, though. People don’t like being lumped with people exhibiting the same behavior. Maybe it’s not that they’re lazy or stupid, they might need training or just more hours in a day. 23:56 How do you re-start a relationship with someone who doesn’t think you’re a good listener? How do you let someone know you’re really trying to change your ways? It helps if you have an event that shakes you up.  He brings up Marshall Goldsmith and What Got You Here Won’t Get You There. (You can hear that interview here) Marc’s Resources www.justlistenthebook.com www.marcgoulston.com Today Wayne Turmel gets a return visit from Dr Marc Goulston about the importance of listening skills and how to develop them. Also, a shameless plug for a webinar workshop and a quote from Igor Stravinski. Why do Americans always giggle when they hear the name Igor? Marc Goulston makes a return visit to the show Don’t forget to support  the show with your copy of 125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to your oasis of sanity, The Cranky Middle Manager Show. No dedication this week, just an offer for you to attend our How to Create and Manage Remote Teams webinar workshop. Register early to save money. Click here to learn about our Sept 30th North America/UK edition Click here for the October 1st India/Asia/Australia edition 3:20 The quote of the week is from Igor Stravinski... do you listen or hear? One of them is no big deal. 3:55 Welcome to Marc Goulston, author of Just Listen- The Secret to Getting Through to Absolutely Anyone. Listening skills is one of those things everyone talks about and we seldom master. It’s really about putting your agenda aside. “The purest form of listening is to listen without memory or desire”. Dang I like that one. 8:38 These skills work on large and small scales, including the FBI hostage negotiators he trains.  He shows us a great way to check for understanding, even if I sometimes feel a bit patronized. 13:39 It’s hard to put aside our own agendas when listening but the impact is huge. He gives us a great way to position an order so that people don’t immediately push back. Science shows us you can’t argue someone into changing their mind… it’s that darned mirror neuron receptor deficit. Check out this article in the Huffington Post. He tells a great story at that point. 20:30 The ability to clearly analyze the situation and respond appropriately in the moment takes courage. You can do what you need to do, though. People don’t like being lumped with people exhibiting the same behavior. Maybe it’s not that they’re lazy or stupid, they might need training or just more hours in a day. 23:56 How do you re-start a relationship with someone who doesn’t think you’re a good listener? How do you let someone know you’re really trying to change your ways? It helps if you have an event that shakes you up.  He brings up Marshall Goldsmith and What Got You Here Won’t Get You There. (You can hear that interview here) Marc’s Resources www.justlistenthebook.com www.marcgoulston.com tag:odeo.com,2009-09-19,25152397 Sat, 19 Sep 2009 14:18:28 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, Leadership, communication, management, Listening, middle, manager, skills, wayne turmel, Marc Goulston, just listen http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25112355-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-207-Project-Management-Across-Distances-Deasun-O-Conchuir Today we talk about Managing Projects across the miles with author and expert Deasun O Conchuir. Continuing the Gaelic state of mind we salute the beleaguered project manager of Hadrian’s Wall and you can avoid some of those problems by taking our How to Create and Manage Remote Teams webinar workshop. Deasun O Conchuir talks to us about managing across distances. If that’s important to you, check out our How to Create and Manage Remote Teams webinar workshops. For the September 30th workshop for North America, click here For the October 1 workshop for India/Asia/Australia click here Show Notes 0:00 Welcome our guest Deasun O Conchuir of Scatterwork. Since he’s our first Gaelic speaking guest, it seemed an opportune time to dedicate the show to the poor schmuck who had to fight the Scots on behalf of Rome, Aulus Platorius Nepos. His fate as project manager awaits us all if we don’t take care of the details and keep our teams together. 3:18 The quote of the we... Today we talk about Managing Projects across the miles with author and expert Deasun O Conchuir. Continuing the Gaelic state of mind we salute the beleaguered project manager of Hadrian’s Wall and you can avoid some of those problems by taking our How to Create and Manage Remote Teams webinar workshop. Deasun O Conchuir talks to us about managing across distances. If that’s important to you, check out our How to Create and Manage Remote Teams webinar workshops. For the September 30th workshop for North America, click here For the October 1 workshop for India/Asia/Australia click here Show Notes 0:00 Welcome our guest Deasun O Conchuir of Scatterwork. Since he’s our first Gaelic speaking guest, it seemed an opportune time to dedicate the show to the poor schmuck who had to fight the Scots on behalf of Rome, Aulus Platorius Nepos. His fate as project manager awaits us all if we don’t take care of the details and keep our teams together. 3:18 The quote of the week is from GK Chesterton. How would you define your pet project. Are you constructing or creating? 4:15 Welcome Deasun O Conchuir. Project management is one of the 4 Disciplines of Highly Effective, Leadership Exhibiting, Project Nailing Managers. Managing projects across distance involves language, culture, context and lots of other stuff it’s hard to do. Lots of practical examples today. 6:55 Why does it matter if you can meet face to face since we’re all professionals and such is life?  It has to do with brain chemistry as much as anything else. Brain chemistry and project management, you don’t get that connection just anywhere. That’s what this show does best. 9:20 Avoiding chitchat and personal time seems like a good idea but it leads to  bad assumptions and miscommunication. 12:30 Sometimes you have to take the time to make concepts clear to a remote team. Roles may differ from place to place even if you don’t know it. Lots of cross cultural examples.Yes, there’s a thin line between stereotype and observation, hopefully we’re on the right side of it. 16:00 When do you check assumptions and when can you assume everything is okay. You want to avoid Wile E Coyote moments. I assume everything is okay unless told differently. Apparently I’m wrong. Cultural norms create all kinds of unintentional problems. 23:27 Communicating with your own team members is easier than getting them to communicate with each other. Recognition and sharing “wins” is really important. What’s also important is making sure you share everyone’s objectives so they know who does what with which and to whom. Good specification is important and small teams. 27:00 What tools does Deasun like? Sharepoint is a good one when they use it well, but bits and pieces of different tools work well. Facebook is a simple way to help people get to know each other, IM works and it doesnt’ have to be but it’s quick. Also, Basecamp is a cool tool. Other Resources LumoFlow for project managers Oxygenz Today we talk about Managing Projects across the miles with author and expert Deasun O Conchuir. Continuing the Gaelic state of mind we salute the beleaguered project manager of Hadrian’s Wall and you can avoid some of those problems by taking our How to Create and Manage Remote Teams webinar workshop. Deasun O Conchuir talks to us about managing across distances. If that’s important to you, check out our How to Create and Manage Remote Teams webinar workshops. For the September 30th workshop for North America, click here For the October 1 workshop for India/Asia/Australia click here Show Notes 0:00 Welcome our guest Deasun O Conchuir of Scatterwork. Since he’s our first Gaelic speaking guest, it seemed an opportune time to dedicate the show to the poor schmuck who had to fight the Scots on behalf of Rome, Aulus Platorius Nepos. His fate as project manager awaits us all if we don’t take care of the details and keep our teams together. 3:18 The quote of the week is from GK Chesterton. How would you define your pet project. Are you constructing or creating? 4:15 Welcome Deasun O Conchuir. Project management is one of the 4 Disciplines of Highly Effective, Leadership Exhibiting, Project Nailing Managers. Managing projects across distance involves language, culture, context and lots of other stuff it’s hard to do. Lots of practical examples today. 6:55 Why does it matter if you can meet face to face since we’re all professionals and such is life?  It has to do with brain chemistry as much as anything else. Brain chemistry and project management, you don’t get that connection just anywhere. That’s what this show does best. 9:20 Avoiding chitchat and personal time seems like a good idea but it leads to  bad assumptions and miscommunication. 12:30 Sometimes you have to take the time to make concepts clear to a remote team. Roles may differ from place to place even if you don’t know it. Lots of cross cultural examples.Yes, there’s a thin line between stereotype and observation, hopefully we’re on the right side of it. 16:00 When do you check assumptions and when can you assume everything is okay. You want to avoid Wile E Coyote moments. I assume everything is okay unless told differently. Apparently I’m wrong. Cultural norms create all kinds of unintentional problems. 23:27 Communicating with your own team members is easier than getting them to communicate with each other. Recognition and sharing “wins” is really important. What’s also important is making sure you share everyone’s objectives so they know who does what with which and to whom. Good specification is important and small teams. 27:00 What tools does Deasun like? Sharepoint is a good one when they use it well, but bits and pieces of different tools work well. Facebook is a simple way to help people get to know each other, IM works and it doesnt’ have to be but it’s quick. Also, Basecamp is a cool tool. Other Resources LumoFlow for project managers Oxygenz tag:odeo.com,2009-09-12,25112355 Sat, 12 Sep 2009 10:25:40 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, General, Leadership, management, Teamwork, teams, project management, remote, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, middle manager, scatterwork, project manager http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25077349-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-206-Common-Management-Mistakes-Aubrey-Daniels Today Wayne Turmel talks about the most common mistakes managers make, mostly because they’re company policy, and why they often backfire. We talk to Aubrey C Daniels. We also look at  where the center of the universe is (it’s not Sales) and lucid words from a crazy person. Just another typical day in Crankyland. Today’s guest, Aubrey Daniels, author of OOPS! The 13 Management Practices that Waste Time and Money and What To Do Instead. Whew, I’m exhausted just typing that, never mind implementing his ideas. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to your oasis of sanity in the desert of workplace craziness. Today we talk about challenging common wisdom- like the stuff all managers are asked to do but usually doesn’t work. Because of that we celebrate Nicolaus Copernicus who challenged conventional thinking but had the good sense to die before actually having to do anything about it. Not a bad plan. 2:00 The quote of the week is from William Blake, who most people consi... Today Wayne Turmel talks about the most common mistakes managers make, mostly because they’re company policy, and why they often backfire. We talk to Aubrey C Daniels. We also look at  where the center of the universe is (it’s not Sales) and lucid words from a crazy person. Just another typical day in Crankyland. Today’s guest, Aubrey Daniels, author of OOPS! The 13 Management Practices that Waste Time and Money and What To Do Instead. Whew, I’m exhausted just typing that, never mind implementing his ideas. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to your oasis of sanity in the desert of workplace craziness. Today we talk about challenging common wisdom- like the stuff all managers are asked to do but usually doesn’t work. Because of that we celebrate Nicolaus Copernicus who challenged conventional thinking but had the good sense to die before actually having to do anything about it. Not a bad plan. 2:00 The quote of the week is from William Blake, who most people considered mad but had some brilliant and lucid thoughts, one of which is if you don’t drain the swamp you wind up with reptiles….or something like that. Check it out yourself. 3:00 Welcome Dr Aubrey C Daniels. Are we lacking good role models for managers? TV doesnt’ help, and who the heck would work for Gordon Ramsay? 5:52 If he had to pick one, what is the most common mistake managers make? Stretch goals are doomed to failure and yet we keep setting them. Instead of one big monster goal, the solution is “many, mini-goals”. 10:15 Ranking employees doesn’t work well either, but I do challenge him on his notion that you don’t have to try your best, just be better than everyone else. My mother would take him to task and then some but she’s not here to take him on. 12:55 Competition is often used badly. External competition is good, internal competition is usually disastrous to group dynamics. 15:30 Done well, bonuses are lovelyPavlovian rewards. Done badly (most of the time) they drive the wrong behaviors or they feel they’re “owed” a bonus. We look at a sales example that sounds all too familiar. 23:00 We have a little difference of opinion with last week’s guest over the most talented people. (If you haven’t heard it, listen to Rob Goffee’s cranky show here). The best and brightest don’t always get you the results you need and frequently they cause more trouble than they’re worth. Aubrey’s Resources Today Wayne Turmel talks about the most common mistakes managers make, mostly because they’re company policy, and why they often backfire. We talk to Aubrey C Daniels. We also look at  where the center of the universe is (it’s not Sales) and lucid words from a crazy person. Just another typical day in Crankyland. Today’s guest, Aubrey Daniels, author of OOPS! The 13 Management Practices that Waste Time and Money and What To Do Instead. Whew, I’m exhausted just typing that, never mind implementing his ideas. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to your oasis of sanity in the desert of workplace craziness. Today we talk about challenging common wisdom- like the stuff all managers are asked to do but usually doesn’t work. Because of that we celebrate Nicolaus Copernicus who challenged conventional thinking but had the good sense to die before actually having to do anything about it. Not a bad plan. 2:00 The quote of the week is from William Blake, who most people considered mad but had some brilliant and lucid thoughts, one of which is if you don’t drain the swamp you wind up with reptiles….or something like that. Check it out yourself. 3:00 Welcome Dr Aubrey C Daniels. Are we lacking good role models for managers? TV doesnt’ help, and who the heck would work for Gordon Ramsay? 5:52 If he had to pick one, what is the most common mistake managers make? Stretch goals are doomed to failure and yet we keep setting them. Instead of one big monster goal, the solution is “many, mini-goals”. 10:15 Ranking employees doesn’t work well either, but I do challenge him on his notion that you don’t have to try your best, just be better than everyone else. My mother would take him to task and then some but she’s not here to take him on. 12:55 Competition is often used badly. External competition is good, internal competition is usually disastrous to group dynamics. 15:30 Done well, bonuses are lovelyPavlovian rewards. Done badly (most of the time) they drive the wrong behaviors or they feel they’re “owed” a bonus. We look at a sales example that sounds all too familiar. 23:00 We have a little difference of opinion with last week’s guest over the most talented people. (If you haven’t heard it, listen to Rob Goffee’s cranky show here). The best and brightest don’t always get you the results you need and frequently they cause more trouble than they’re worth. Aubrey’s Resources tag:odeo.com,2009-09-05,25077349 Sat, 05 Sep 2009 11:04:57 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, Leadership, Humor, management, mistakes, wayne turmel, middle manager, Aubrey Daniels http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25041506-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-205-Managing-Clever-People-with-Rob-Goffee Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Rob Goffee about his book Clever- Leading Your Smartest, Most Creative People. Of course, I’m supremely unqualified to do so, but we have fun anyway. Also, how the Trojan War makes the same point, and watch for a new “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshop coming next month. Rob Goffee, looking awfully clever himself There are two Greatwebmeetings.com webinars coming up. September 1 at 2 PM Central Time: Webinar 101 presented by Netbriefings. Click here for more information and to register FREE September 23        How Speakers and Meeting Planners Can Use Webinars to Boost Their Business, presented by Telenect. Click here for more information and to register FREE Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show, gang. Today we look at managing the really smartest, most talented people we have.  They add value, but they can be a real pain. Our dedication is to King Menelaus, who knew a thing or two about that problem d... Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Rob Goffee about his book Clever- Leading Your Smartest, Most Creative People. Of course, I’m supremely unqualified to do so, but we have fun anyway. Also, how the Trojan War makes the same point, and watch for a new “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshop coming next month. Rob Goffee, looking awfully clever himself There are two Greatwebmeetings.com webinars coming up. September 1 at 2 PM Central Time: Webinar 101 presented by Netbriefings. Click here for more information and to register FREE September 23        How Speakers and Meeting Planners Can Use Webinars to Boost Their Business, presented by Telenect. Click here for more information and to register FREE Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show, gang. Today we look at managing the really smartest, most talented people we have.  They add value, but they can be a real pain. Our dedication is to King Menelaus, who knew a thing or two about that problem during the Trojan War. 2:30 The quote of the week is from Naquib Mahfouz - clever is one thing, wise is another. Few people are both. 3:08 Welcome Rob Goffee to the show. He and his co-author Gareth Jones have written about managing clever people…what do we mean by clever and how is that different from just plain smart? They tend to add more value than most employees, tend to smarter and expect to be treated differently. They can also be a management nightmare if mishandled. The good news is that most of them need organizations, even if they act like they don’t. 6:18 There’s a business case to be made for handling these people differently than most , and most of that handling means leaving them alone to do what they do. Less management is more. 9:34 How do you keep your “clevers” motivated while not hurting the rest of the team. The term “benevlolent guardian” is appropriate. Rob explains it better than I do. 14:58 Why do so many superstars make lousy managers and why do companies insist on trying to make them fit that role? We mention Donato Bramante trying to manage Michelangelo. You can learn more back in Episode 35 if you’re so inclined. 19:45 How do managers keep their own heads and deal with their own insecurities in dealing with these people who might be smarter than they are? Start by acknowledging what they’re good at. And now you have to put together a team of Superstars which is it’s own nightmare. Rob’s Resources Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Rob Goffee about his book Clever- Leading Your Smartest, Most Creative People. Of course, I’m supremely unqualified to do so, but we have fun anyway. Also, how the Trojan War makes the same point, and watch for a new “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshop coming next month. Rob Goffee, looking awfully clever himself There are two Greatwebmeetings.com webinars coming up. September 1 at 2 PM Central Time: Webinar 101 presented by Netbriefings. Click here for more information and to register FREE September 23        How Speakers and Meeting Planners Can Use Webinars to Boost Their Business, presented by Telenect. Click here for more information and to register FREE Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show, gang. Today we look at managing the really smartest, most talented people we have.  They add value, but they can be a real pain. Our dedication is to King Menelaus, who knew a thing or two about that problem during the Trojan War. 2:30 The quote of the week is from Naquib Mahfouz - clever is one thing, wise is another. Few people are both. 3:08 Welcome Rob Goffee to the show. He and his co-author Gareth Jones have written about managing clever people…what do we mean by clever and how is that different from just plain smart? They tend to add more value than most employees, tend to smarter and expect to be treated differently. They can also be a management nightmare if mishandled. The good news is that most of them need organizations, even if they act like they don’t. 6:18 There’s a business case to be made for handling these people differently than most , and most of that handling means leaving them alone to do what they do. Less management is more. 9:34 How do you keep your “clevers” motivated while not hurting the rest of the team. The term “benevlolent guardian” is appropriate. Rob explains it better than I do. 14:58 Why do so many superstars make lousy managers and why do companies insist on trying to make them fit that role? We mention Donato Bramante trying to manage Michelangelo. You can learn more back in Episode 35 if you’re so inclined. 19:45 How do managers keep their own heads and deal with their own insecurities in dealing with these people who might be smarter than they are? Start by acknowledging what they’re good at. And now you have to put together a team of Superstars which is it’s own nightmare. Rob’s Resources tag:odeo.com,2009-08-29,25041506 Sat, 29 Aug 2009 10:00:08 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, Leadership, managing, wayne turmel, middle management, Clever, employee engagement, Rob Goffee http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25004645-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-204-The-Carrot-Principle-Chester-Elton Today Wayne Turmel talks about something that makes him cranky- reward and recognition. Author Chester Elton joins him to talk about his book, “The Carrot Principle”. We also discuss the worst Reward and Recognition program in history and “How to Create and Manage Virtual Teams” is now available to deliver to your whole company. Chester Elton looks like he’s having more fun than the rest of us…. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show and a topic I’m notoriously bad at (apologies to all who’ve worked for me in the past)- reward and recognition. Chester came to us through both Vince Thompson (hear his interview here) and Adrian Gostick (hear HIS interview here).  We dedicate this episode to the worst reward and recognition program ever. No matter how bad your company’s is… it didn’t start the Trojan War. 3:20 The quote of the week is from Ovid….. nothing but the dresscode has changed since Roman times… 4:15 Wel... Today Wayne Turmel talks about something that makes him cranky- reward and recognition. Author Chester Elton joins him to talk about his book, “The Carrot Principle”. We also discuss the worst Reward and Recognition program in history and “How to Create and Manage Virtual Teams” is now available to deliver to your whole company. Chester Elton looks like he’s having more fun than the rest of us…. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show and a topic I’m notoriously bad at (apologies to all who’ve worked for me in the past)- reward and recognition. Chester came to us through both Vince Thompson (hear his interview here) and Adrian Gostick (hear HIS interview here).  We dedicate this episode to the worst reward and recognition program ever. No matter how bad your company’s is… it didn’t start the Trojan War. 3:20 The quote of the week is from Ovid….. nothing but the dresscode has changed since Roman times… 4:15 Welcome Chester Elton, author of “The Carrot Principle: How the Best Managers Use Recognition to Engage Their People, Retain Talent and Accelerate Performance”. The idea of course involves the carrot and the stick…. pretty much every culture understands that analogy. 6:00 Why do so many companies do this so badly? I know I do it badly but they’re supposed to be smarter than me. The problem is that general praise does nothing useful, specificity is the important factor. 9:16 Okay, full disclosure (and it’s unfair to blame my mother) but i’m really bad at this. I’m happy to praise big things, but basic competence is the expectation. Right? Apparently i’m an idiot. 13:30 Most of us manage the way we like to be managed but maybe demotivates other people. Things like giving the same reward to everyone, for example.  For an opposite take on some of these opinions take  a listen to Charlie Jacobs’ interview on Management Rewired 20:07 The more employers pour into employee engagement programs, the more obvious it is that they’re doing a lot of little things to kill engagement.  It’s amazing how much pride in your company is critical to engagement. What are you doing to make your employees proud of their workplace? 25:27 How can middle managers do this when the larger organization doesn’t support your efforts? Hands up all those who’ve ever felt this way? Is pizza really THAT expensive? Charlie’s Resources Thanks.com for free and cheap rewards Today Wayne Turmel talks about something that makes him cranky- reward and recognition. Author Chester Elton joins him to talk about his book, “The Carrot Principle”. We also discuss the worst Reward and Recognition program in history and “How to Create and Manage Virtual Teams” is now available to deliver to your whole company. Chester Elton looks like he’s having more fun than the rest of us…. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show and a topic I’m notoriously bad at (apologies to all who’ve worked for me in the past)- reward and recognition. Chester came to us through both Vince Thompson (hear his interview here) and Adrian Gostick (hear HIS interview here).  We dedicate this episode to the worst reward and recognition program ever. No matter how bad your company’s is… it didn’t start the Trojan War. 3:20 The quote of the week is from Ovid….. nothing but the dresscode has changed since Roman times… 4:15 Welcome Chester Elton, author of “The Carrot Principle: How the Best Managers Use Recognition to Engage Their People, Retain Talent and Accelerate Performance”. The idea of course involves the carrot and the stick…. pretty much every culture understands that analogy. 6:00 Why do so many companies do this so badly? I know I do it badly but they’re supposed to be smarter than me. The problem is that general praise does nothing useful, specificity is the important factor. 9:16 Okay, full disclosure (and it’s unfair to blame my mother) but i’m really bad at this. I’m happy to praise big things, but basic competence is the expectation. Right? Apparently i’m an idiot. 13:30 Most of us manage the way we like to be managed but maybe demotivates other people. Things like giving the same reward to everyone, for example.  For an opposite take on some of these opinions take  a listen to Charlie Jacobs’ interview on Management Rewired 20:07 The more employers pour into employee engagement programs, the more obvious it is that they’re doing a lot of little things to kill engagement.  It’s amazing how much pride in your company is critical to engagement. What are you doing to make your employees proud of their workplace? 25:27 How can middle managers do this when the larger organization doesn’t support your efforts? Hands up all those who’ve ever felt this way? Is pizza really THAT expensive? Charlie’s Resources Thanks.com for free and cheap rewards tag:odeo.com,2009-08-22,25004645 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 09:09:45 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, General http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24938195-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-203-Success-Mapping-with-Arlene-Johnson Wayne Turmel, “The Cranky Middle Manager”, welcomes Arlene Johnson to talk about Success Mapping.  What do you want out of your career? Do you even know? It’s critical to your company and your personal mental health. Also, Wayne goes on a rant about why snobs look down at Middle Managers and we quote Thomas Jefferson, who knew a thing or two about achieving success in spite of himself. Arlene Johnson talks about Success Mapping and focusing on where you want to go. Most of us obsess about this but don’t really act. That changes today, got it? Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today is about  us and our careers. My snake oil detector usually doesn’t put up with the “if you imagine it, it will be” school of success. I come from a great long line of people who’ve crashed and burned following that advice. Why do people pick on middle managers? This is actually something to aspire to for many of us and don’t take any crap from snob... Wayne Turmel, “The Cranky Middle Manager”, welcomes Arlene Johnson to talk about Success Mapping.  What do you want out of your career? Do you even know? It’s critical to your company and your personal mental health. Also, Wayne goes on a rant about why snobs look down at Middle Managers and we quote Thomas Jefferson, who knew a thing or two about achieving success in spite of himself. Arlene Johnson talks about Success Mapping and focusing on where you want to go. Most of us obsess about this but don’t really act. That changes today, got it? Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today is about  us and our careers. My snake oil detector usually doesn’t put up with the “if you imagine it, it will be” school of success. I come from a great long line of people who’ve crashed and burned following that advice. Why do people pick on middle managers? This is actually something to aspire to for many of us and don’t take any crap from snobs- and not everyone is cut out to be an entrepeneur. There, I feel better. 4:45 The quote of the week is from Thomas Jefferson, an overachiever who really managed to be far more successful than logic dictated. He understood that attitude was pretty much the deciding factor in success. 5:30 Welcome Arlene Johnson, author of Success Mapping… Achieve What You Want Right Now! Don’t let the exclamation mark put you off like it did me…there’s good stuff here. We don’t spend enough time on us and our careers, at least not productive time. The book maps out 8 steps… we’ll only look at a few of them: What do you REALLY want? The power of you- intention The power of choice Using your strengths Transforming stumbling blocks Ask for- and get- what you need Making decisions with no regrets Yes, i’m really ready to achieve my intention statement 8:17 How do we reconcile taking care of our careers while honoring commitments to our employers? When your’e taking care of yourself you do a much better job for your employer. 11:39 How do you define goals and intentions? Do we even know what our goals are? Survival is important, but it’s not a real goal. And don’t let the little guy on your shoulder tell you any different. 14:00 What’s the difference between a goal and “intention”? Intention is the end goal, clearly defined, focused and actionable 17:47 Here’s what stops most of us: do we really have choice? Feel free to challenge this idea but it’s true. Ugly, but true. 20:05 Arlene walks us through how to make a clear decision. You have to know what you value, protect what’s valuable, change what’s not and figure out where the gaps are. 22:45 Okay, we have to work from our strengths. How do we know what our strengths are? How can we tell we’re not deluding ourselves? If you enjoy it, it gets you the results you need, and you can’t wait to do it again is a good rule of thumb. 26:00 Look, you and I are alike in that we are really bad at asking for what we want. Whining and hoping someone tosses you a bone is NOT the same thing. Think about WHY they would accept or deny your request and fram it accordingly. Remember, people WANT us to be successful. Arlene’s Resources Wayne Turmel, “The Cranky Middle Manager”, welcomes Arlene Johnson to talk about Success Mapping.  What do you want out of your career? Do you even know? It’s critical to your company and your personal mental health. Also, Wayne goes on a rant about why snobs look down at Middle Managers and we quote Thomas Jefferson, who knew a thing or two about achieving success in spite of himself. Arlene Johnson talks about Success Mapping and focusing on where you want to go. Most of us obsess about this but don’t really act. That changes today, got it? Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today is about  us and our careers. My snake oil detector usually doesn’t put up with the “if you imagine it, it will be” school of success. I come from a great long line of people who’ve crashed and burned following that advice. Why do people pick on middle managers? This is actually something to aspire to for many of us and don’t take any crap from snobs- and not everyone is cut out to be an entrepeneur. There, I feel better. 4:45 The quote of the week is from Thomas Jefferson, an overachiever who really managed to be far more successful than logic dictated. He understood that attitude was pretty much the deciding factor in success. 5:30 Welcome Arlene Johnson, author of Success Mapping… Achieve What You Want Right Now! Don’t let the exclamation mark put you off like it did me…there’s good stuff here. We don’t spend enough time on us and our careers, at least not productive time. The book maps out 8 steps… we’ll only look at a few of them: What do you REALLY want? The power of you- intention The power of choice Using your strengths Transforming stumbling blocks Ask for- and get- what you need Making decisions with no regrets Yes, i’m really ready to achieve my intention statement 8:17 How do we reconcile taking care of our careers while honoring commitments to our employers? When your’e taking care of yourself you do a much better job for your employer. 11:39 How do you define goals and intentions? Do we even know what our goals are? Survival is important, but it’s not a real goal. And don’t let the little guy on your shoulder tell you any different. 14:00 What’s the difference between a goal and “intention”? Intention is the end goal, clearly defined, focused and actionable 17:47 Here’s what stops most of us: do we really have choice? Feel free to challenge this idea but it’s true. Ugly, but true. 20:05 Arlene walks us through how to make a clear decision. You have to know what you value, protect what’s valuable, change what’s not and figure out where the gaps are. 22:45 Okay, we have to work from our strengths. How do we know what our strengths are? How can we tell we’re not deluding ourselves? If you enjoy it, it gets you the results you need, and you can’t wait to do it again is a good rule of thumb. 26:00 Look, you and I are alike in that we are really bad at asking for what we want. Whining and hoping someone tosses you a bone is NOT the same thing. Think about WHY they would accept or deny your request and fram it accordingly. Remember, people WANT us to be successful. Arlene’s Resources tag:odeo.com,2009-08-10,24938195 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 10:47:59 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, career, strategy, management, workplace, Cranky Middle Manager http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24908769-Managementcraft-Turns-5-and-Lisa-and-I-Celebrate-Check-it-Out One of my favorite people in the management space is Lisa Haneberg. She’s been a guest on the show numerous times and i often link to her work. Well a couple of things happened recently you might want to check out. The first is that her blog, ManagementCraft has been around now for 5 years- nine months longer than this show and is an excellent resource for managers everywhere. She recently asked some of her favorite bloggers (i pause to blush at the excellent company I’m in ) to tell her what we’ve learned in the last 5 years. My answer to that question is in yesterday’s post. Check it out. Secondly, I was able to finally meet Lisa. For all we’ve collaborated, interviewed each other and supported each other’s work over the years, we finally met last week in Chicago for dinner. Yes she does exist, and she’s as lively, smart, funny and terrific as you’d expect. She ambushed me by pulling out a tape recorder during after-dinner beverages ... One of my favorite people in the management space is Lisa Haneberg. She’s been a guest on the show numerous times and i often link to her work. Well a couple of things happened recently you might want to check out. The first is that her blog, ManagementCraft has been around now for 5 years- nine months longer than this show and is an excellent resource for managers everywhere. She recently asked some of her favorite bloggers (i pause to blush at the excellent company I’m in ) to tell her what we’ve learned in the last 5 years. My answer to that question is in yesterday’s post. Check it out. Secondly, I was able to finally meet Lisa. For all we’ve collaborated, interviewed each other and supported each other’s work over the years, we finally met last week in Chicago for dinner. Yes she does exist, and she’s as lively, smart, funny and terrific as you’d expect. She ambushed me by pulling out a tape recorder during after-dinner beverages and recorded our conversation. Of course, what you think happened, happened. She listened and added intelligent comment while I rambled on but it’s the kind of conversation this show was built on. I think it was a lot of fun and I think you’ll enjoy it. Download and listen to it here. One of my favorite people in the management space is Lisa Haneberg. She’s been a guest on the show numerous times and i often link to her work. Well a couple of things happened recently you might want to check out. The first is that her blog, ManagementCraft has been around now for 5 years- nine months longer than this show and is an excellent resource for managers everywhere. She recently asked some of her favorite bloggers (i pause to blush at the excellent company I’m in ) to tell her what we’ve learned in the last 5 years. My answer to that question is in yesterday’s post. Check it out. Secondly, I was able to finally meet Lisa. For all we’ve collaborated, interviewed each other and supported each other’s work over the years, we finally met last week in Chicago for dinner. Yes she does exist, and she’s as lively, smart, funny and terrific as you’d expect. She ambushed me by pulling out a tape recorder during after-dinner beverages and recorded our conversation. Of course, what you think happened, happened. She listened and added intelligent comment while I rambled on but it’s the kind of conversation this show was built on. I think it was a lot of fun and I think you’ll enjoy it. Download and listen to it here. tag:odeo.com,2009-08-04,24908769 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 04:01:29 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show General http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24870578-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-201-Adaptive-Leadership-Alexander-Grashow Wayne Turmel talks leading change from within with Alexander Grashow, author of The Practice of Adaptive Leadership. We also look at what the Chicago Blackhawks can teach middle managers about taking care of the little things or your mulleted head will roll. Alexander Grashow, co-author of The Practice of Adaptive Leadership Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to show 201. Back to talking leadership. This show is dedicated to Dale Tallon, former GM of the Chicago Blackhawks and a sad lesson to all of us- do your paperwork. 3:33 The quote of the week is from Audre Lorde. Are you using the master’s tools to dismantle his or her house? How’s that working for you? By the way this is the first time in history Dale Tallon and Audre Lorde have been mentioned together. Just part of the charm of this show. 4:08 Welcome to Alexander Grashow, no stranger to grand ambition. His parents had more hope for him than mine had for me but I digress. What is Adaptive Leadership? Basically it’s ho... Wayne Turmel talks leading change from within with Alexander Grashow, author of The Practice of Adaptive Leadership. We also look at what the Chicago Blackhawks can teach middle managers about taking care of the little things or your mulleted head will roll. Alexander Grashow, co-author of The Practice of Adaptive Leadership Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to show 201. Back to talking leadership. This show is dedicated to Dale Tallon, former GM of the Chicago Blackhawks and a sad lesson to all of us- do your paperwork. 3:33 The quote of the week is from Audre Lorde. Are you using the master’s tools to dismantle his or her house? How’s that working for you? By the way this is the first time in history Dale Tallon and Audre Lorde have been mentioned together. Just part of the charm of this show. 4:08 Welcome to Alexander Grashow, no stranger to grand ambition. His parents had more hope for him than mine had for me but I digress. What is Adaptive Leadership? Basically it’s how do you change businesses and people conduct their business? Can you actually evolve? As Darwin said, it’s evolve or die. 6:00 Here’s something you don’t want to hear- most systems are NOT dysfunctional, we get the processes we deserve. They get the results they are designed to get. Chew on that for a while. 9:49 I like to think of myself as the Steve Irwin of business people. Detached observation is the only way to really understand what’s going on and leaders need to listen and observe. This really applies to the politics of a situation- and there are ALWAYS politics. 14:30 Loyalty sounds like a grand thing, but understanding what people are loyal to and why is critical if you’re going to really assess a situation. Name your assumptions and make them plain. How do you test your assumptions without taking too much action too soon? 17:30 Finally a unique definition of leadership: disappointing your own people at a rate they can absorb. I’ll let him explain. Beware the Jerry McGuire moment. 21:39 How do you make conflict useful and productive instead of having it tear the team apart.? We have to get comfortable with productive conflict. Try to keep the conflict going 5 minutes longer than we’re comfortable. 24:00 Did you know YOU are a system? What is the part of you that contributes to the mess? What should you let go of? Alexander’s Resources His Book His Leadership Housecall Blog Mark Bittman’s cooking blog Wayne Turmel talks leading change from within with Alexander Grashow, author of The Practice of Adaptive Leadership. We also look at what the Chicago Blackhawks can teach middle managers about taking care of the little things or your mulleted head will roll. Alexander Grashow, co-author of The Practice of Adaptive Leadership Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to show 201. Back to talking leadership. This show is dedicated to Dale Tallon, former GM of the Chicago Blackhawks and a sad lesson to all of us- do your paperwork. 3:33 The quote of the week is from Audre Lorde. Are you using the master’s tools to dismantle his or her house? How’s that working for you? By the way this is the first time in history Dale Tallon and Audre Lorde have been mentioned together. Just part of the charm of this show. 4:08 Welcome to Alexander Grashow, no stranger to grand ambition. His parents had more hope for him than mine had for me but I digress. What is Adaptive Leadership? Basically it’s how do you change businesses and people conduct their business? Can you actually evolve? As Darwin said, it’s evolve or die. 6:00 Here’s something you don’t want to hear- most systems are NOT dysfunctional, we get the processes we deserve. They get the results they are designed to get. Chew on that for a while. 9:49 I like to think of myself as the Steve Irwin of business people. Detached observation is the only way to really understand what’s going on and leaders need to listen and observe. This really applies to the politics of a situation- and there are ALWAYS politics. 14:30 Loyalty sounds like a grand thing, but understanding what people are loyal to and why is critical if you’re going to really assess a situation. Name your assumptions and make them plain. How do you test your assumptions without taking too much action too soon? 17:30 Finally a unique definition of leadership: disappointing your own people at a rate they can absorb. I’ll let him explain. Beware the Jerry McGuire moment. 21:39 How do you make conflict useful and productive instead of having it tear the team apart.? We have to get comfortable with productive conflict. Try to keep the conflict going 5 minutes longer than we’re comfortable. 24:00 Did you know YOU are a system? What is the part of you that contributes to the mess? What should you let go of? Alexander’s Resources His Book His Leadership Housecall Blog Mark Bittman’s cooking blog tag:odeo.com,2009-07-27,24870578 Mon, 27 Jul 2009 09:29:58 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, General, audio, Leadership, management, teams, remote, wayne turmel, middle manager, Alexander Grashow, Adaptive Leadership http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24831159-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-200-Staying-Upbeat-with-Rajesh-Setty Today Wayne Turmel celebrates 200 interviews with people way smarter than him. Today it’s Rajesh Setty, author of the perpetually positive “Upbeat”. We also quote an operetta and ask my 16 year old about her manager. My friend and mentor, the always upbeat Rajesh Setty Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the 200th episode of the Cranky Middle Manager Show.  I am taking this moment to let us quit being noble and helping our companies and teams and concentrate on ourselves. In Episode 198 it was all about being Hip and Sage with Lisa Haneberg. In Episode 199 it was preparing ourselves to take control of our careers with Mike Cook. Today it’s all about keeping an upbeat attitude, even when that’s the last thing you feel like doing. Misery is optional. 2:14 No dedication this week, because I am interviewing my 16 year old daughter, Her Serene Highness about her new job. If you read the Management Issues article, you know it didn’t start well but I thought I&#8... Today Wayne Turmel celebrates 200 interviews with people way smarter than him. Today it’s Rajesh Setty, author of the perpetually positive “Upbeat”. We also quote an operetta and ask my 16 year old about her manager. My friend and mentor, the always upbeat Rajesh Setty Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the 200th episode of the Cranky Middle Manager Show.  I am taking this moment to let us quit being noble and helping our companies and teams and concentrate on ourselves. In Episode 198 it was all about being Hip and Sage with Lisa Haneberg. In Episode 199 it was preparing ourselves to take control of our careers with Mike Cook. Today it’s all about keeping an upbeat attitude, even when that’s the last thing you feel like doing. Misery is optional. 2:14 No dedication this week, because I am interviewing my 16 year old daughter, Her Serene Highness about her new job. If you read the Management Issues article, you know it didn’t start well but I thought I’d ask her about her manager. it also stops her nagging me about being on my show. If you’re going to manage millenials, might as well talk to one. Good luck to all of us. 5:25 The quote of the week is from W S Gilbert. Staying positive is important, but lots of us kind of enjoy being miserable on occasion….. admit it. I’m not alone here. Am I? 6:30 Welcome back Rajesh Setty to the show. He was one of our earlier guests, has been responsible for a number of others and has been a mentor to me and the show. (Hear his earlier interview here). He is also the author of a little book on keeping an upbeat attitude in spite of everything that’s going on. In fact, his first big idea is to quit thinking of everything that’s going on and worry about your own work and what you can actually control. 11:00 One of the great human instincts is to vent, but harping on how bad things are doesn’t accomplish anything. Quit talking about how bad things are, it creates a cycle of depression. That doesn’t mean you don’t talk about what’s going on in the company. I’m not sure I buy all of this, but then I’m  uhhhh cranky. 15:05 You have to take care of your health. Seriously. For the record, I have lost almost 35 pounds and am in great shape. In a perfect world I’d be too busy to work out but I’ll let that irony sit there. Don’t let bad times be an excuse or you won’t be in shape to handle the demands on you. 18:00 Setting goals and being accountable for yourself is a huge piece of your attitude. You are important enough to keep promises you make to yourself. 21:51 Weird times are exactly the right time to take a risk…because the normal safe route isn’t working. It sucks but it’s true. 23:00 Raj is one of the best networkers I know. Tweetfacelinkblogging is not sufficient. Raj gives us some tips for creating a great network. A network is not there to help you….. it will but that shouldn’t be your focus. Start by seeing what you can do for them first…the rest will follow. Trite, but this guy lives it more than most I know….. Rajesh’s Resources His own Life Beyond Code Blog Seth Godin’s blog Tom Peters.com Lateral Action a very cool site I can personally recommend: /"Active Garage Don’t let the weasels get you down! Today Wayne Turmel celebrates 200 interviews with people way smarter than him. Today it’s Rajesh Setty, author of the perpetually positive “Upbeat”. We also quote an operetta and ask my 16 year old about her manager. My friend and mentor, the always upbeat Rajesh Setty Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the 200th episode of the Cranky Middle Manager Show.  I am taking this moment to let us quit being noble and helping our companies and teams and concentrate on ourselves. In Episode 198 it was all about being Hip and Sage with Lisa Haneberg. In Episode 199 it was preparing ourselves to take control of our careers with Mike Cook. Today it’s all about keeping an upbeat attitude, even when that’s the last thing you feel like doing. Misery is optional. 2:14 No dedication this week, because I am interviewing my 16 year old daughter, Her Serene Highness about her new job. If you read the Management Issues article, you know it didn’t start well but I thought I’d ask her about her manager. it also stops her nagging me about being on my show. If you’re going to manage millenials, might as well talk to one. Good luck to all of us. 5:25 The quote of the week is from W S Gilbert. Staying positive is important, but lots of us kind of enjoy being miserable on occasion….. admit it. I’m not alone here. Am I? 6:30 Welcome back Rajesh Setty to the show. He was one of our earlier guests, has been responsible for a number of others and has been a mentor to me and the show. (Hear his earlier interview here). He is also the author of a little book on keeping an upbeat attitude in spite of everything that’s going on. In fact, his first big idea is to quit thinking of everything that’s going on and worry about your own work and what you can actually control. 11:00 One of the great human instincts is to vent, but harping on how bad things are doesn’t accomplish anything. Quit talking about how bad things are, it creates a cycle of depression. That doesn’t mean you don’t talk about what’s going on in the company. I’m not sure I buy all of this, but then I’m  uhhhh cranky. 15:05 You have to take care of your health. Seriously. For the record, I have lost almost 35 pounds and am in great shape. In a perfect world I’d be too busy to work out but I’ll let that irony sit there. Don’t let bad times be an excuse or you won’t be in shape to handle the demands on you. 18:00 Setting goals and being accountable for yourself is a huge piece of your attitude. You are important enough to keep promises you make to yourself. 21:51 Weird times are exactly the right time to take a risk…because the normal safe route isn’t working. It sucks but it’s true. 23:00 Raj is one of the best networkers I know. Tweetfacelinkblogging is not sufficient. Raj gives us some tips for creating a great network. A network is not there to help you….. it will but that shouldn’t be your focus. Start by seeing what you can do for them first…the rest will follow. Trite, but this guy lives it more than most I know….. Rajesh’s Resources His own Life Beyond Code Blog Seth Godin’s blog Tom Peters.com Lateral Action a very cool site I can personally recommend: /"Active Garage Don’t let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-07-19,24831159 Sun, 19 Jul 2009 18:24:35 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, Leadership, management, Teamwork, attitude, manager, rajesh setty, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24782930-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-199-Thrive-in-Tough-Times-with-Mike-Cook Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel looks at how managers need to examine their attitudes in these weird times. We talk to Mike Cook about how to thrive or at least survive. We also look at management as first aid and a poet gives us trite advice that holds up. Sounds like another typical show doesn’t it? Mike Cook, author of Thrive: Standing on Your Own Two Feet in a Borderless World. Don’t forget to vist CrankyMiddleManager.com to register for our email newsletter, buy a book or have me speak to your company or organization! Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the 199th episode of the show. We are in the middle of a series that asks you to examine how you’re doing and where you’re going. Do you feel like you’ve got post-traumatic shakes? That’s why we dedicate this episode to Sir Robert Peat. Oh and you learn more than you ever wanted to know about really delivering mouth-to- mouth resucitation. 3:26 The quote of the week is from Anne Bradstreet, who knew... Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel looks at how managers need to examine their attitudes in these weird times. We talk to Mike Cook about how to thrive or at least survive. We also look at management as first aid and a poet gives us trite advice that holds up. Sounds like another typical show doesn’t it? Mike Cook, author of Thrive: Standing on Your Own Two Feet in a Borderless World. Don’t forget to vist CrankyMiddleManager.com to register for our email newsletter, buy a book or have me speak to your company or organization! Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the 199th episode of the show. We are in the middle of a series that asks you to examine how you’re doing and where you’re going. Do you feel like you’ve got post-traumatic shakes? That’s why we dedicate this episode to Sir Robert Peat. Oh and you learn more than you ever wanted to know about really delivering mouth-to- mouth resucitation. 3:26 The quote of the week is from Anne Bradstreet, who knew a thing or two about adversity. Yes, the advice is trite. It’s also true and many of us need to hear it. 4:35 Welcome Mike Cook, author of Thrive: Stand on Your Own Two Feet in a Borderless World. It’s time to reexamine our relationship to work. Becoming independent and understanding your personal value is critical to working relationships. In a century we’ve gone from mostly self-employed to employed and heading back to self-employment with an education system that teaches us to shut up and do as we’re told. 10:03 Being a follower is based on the faulty logic that those we’re following know what they are doing.  How do you take grown people who have been well trained to look at security first and turn them into self-starters? 16:00 Are you dependent on your evil overlords? You need to understand your personal value proposition. What is it YOU bring to the job that no one else does and why should they care? How do you bring it to their attention? 21:30 One of the challenges is that entrepeneurial thinking is so foreign and scary it’s hard to do. Have we been domesticated like cattle? 26:00 If Mike were to grab you by the lapels, here’s the one thing he’d tell you to do: Stop, look 5 years down the road and tell me if the story has a happy ending. If the answer isn’t fast and positive, you’d better change what you’re doing. Mike’s Resources Francis Fukuyama  Trust Authentic Conversations Don’t forget you can find us on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel looks at how managers need to examine their attitudes in these weird times. We talk to Mike Cook about how to thrive or at least survive. We also look at management as first aid and a poet gives us trite advice that holds up. Sounds like another typical show doesn’t it? Mike Cook, author of Thrive: Standing on Your Own Two Feet in a Borderless World. Don’t forget to vist CrankyMiddleManager.com to register for our email newsletter, buy a book or have me speak to your company or organization! Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the 199th episode of the show. We are in the middle of a series that asks you to examine how you’re doing and where you’re going. Do you feel like you’ve got post-traumatic shakes? That’s why we dedicate this episode to Sir Robert Peat. Oh and you learn more than you ever wanted to know about really delivering mouth-to- mouth resucitation. 3:26 The quote of the week is from Anne Bradstreet, who knew a thing or two about adversity. Yes, the advice is trite. It’s also true and many of us need to hear it. 4:35 Welcome Mike Cook, author of Thrive: Stand on Your Own Two Feet in a Borderless World. It’s time to reexamine our relationship to work. Becoming independent and understanding your personal value is critical to working relationships. In a century we’ve gone from mostly self-employed to employed and heading back to self-employment with an education system that teaches us to shut up and do as we’re told. 10:03 Being a follower is based on the faulty logic that those we’re following know what they are doing.  How do you take grown people who have been well trained to look at security first and turn them into self-starters? 16:00 Are you dependent on your evil overlords? You need to understand your personal value proposition. What is it YOU bring to the job that no one else does and why should they care? How do you bring it to their attention? 21:30 One of the challenges is that entrepeneurial thinking is so foreign and scary it’s hard to do. Have we been domesticated like cattle? 26:00 If Mike were to grab you by the lapels, here’s the one thing he’d tell you to do: Stop, look 5 years down the road and tell me if the story has a happy ending. If the answer isn’t fast and positive, you’d better change what you’re doing. Mike’s Resources Francis Fukuyama  Trust Authentic Conversations Don’t forget you can find us on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin tag:odeo.com,2009-07-11,24782930 Sat, 11 Jul 2009 07:45:32 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, work, Leadership, career, economy, thrive, globalization, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, Mike Cook http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24749542-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-198-Hip-and-Sage-with-Lisa-Haneberg Today Wayne Turmel talks with Management Craft’s Lisa Haneberg about her new book, Hip and Sage. We also give a little love to Ning and King George the III. Let’s see how many Google/Bing searches have those two words in the same sentence. Always breaking new ground here….. Lisa Haneberg retruns for yet more good conversation and laughs. Don’t forget to get a copy of the Cranky Middle Manager book of quotes for your team or the manager who needs a laugh! Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show, gang. This is the show if you ever feel like you used to be good at the job and were once the smartest and/or youngest person in the room. Lisa Haneberg has a book for what ails you. Also, we dedicate the show to King George III of England.  Give him a little love this July 4th. 3:06 The quote of the week is from Voltaire. Are you wiser, or just too old and  tired to scandalize anyone? 4:50 You can join the Cranky Middle Manager family any number of ways. The word for this... Today Wayne Turmel talks with Management Craft’s Lisa Haneberg about her new book, Hip and Sage. We also give a little love to Ning and King George the III. Let’s see how many Google/Bing searches have those two words in the same sentence. Always breaking new ground here….. Lisa Haneberg retruns for yet more good conversation and laughs. Don’t forget to get a copy of the Cranky Middle Manager book of quotes for your team or the manager who needs a laugh! Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show, gang. This is the show if you ever feel like you used to be good at the job and were once the smartest and/or youngest person in the room. Lisa Haneberg has a book for what ails you. Also, we dedicate the show to King George III of England.  Give him a little love this July 4th. 3:06 The quote of the week is from Voltaire. Are you wiser, or just too old and  tired to scandalize anyone? 4:50 You can join the Cranky Middle Manager family any number of ways. The word for this kind of contact by the way is tweetfacelinkblogging. It’s a verb. Look it up.  Here’s how to reach me on ,Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, by the way. 5:30 Welcome back Lisa Haneberg, author of Hip and Sage: Staying Smart, Cool and Competitive in the Workplace. Ever feel like everyone knows stuff you don’t? You’re not alone. Getting old isn’t great, but there’s only one alternative and let’s assume that’s not an option. The biggest thing most of us have to deal with is how we communicate. Do we need to train the kids to communicate and tolerate meetings like us or do we have to think about what and how we talk to them? 8:47 What is hip? What is sage? Hip is being open to the possibilities of the new. Sage is the wisdom as a leader and how we use all that stuff we try.  Here’s the good news, not everyone needs to Twitter. You all need to know what the heck it is. That’s the difference. Here’s my take on Twitter: watching what was going on with Iran was cool. There are also morons who don’t deserve to be part of the conversation. 12:57 Is texting and the rest dumbing down the language or evolving it? Should we complain about the bad spelling or concentrate on the content and speed? Should we teach people to endure bad meetings or quit holding useless meetings? 16:04 You can worry so much about not “wasting time” that we lose the human connections that make relationships work.  One of the things that helps is sites like Ning. Two Ning sites you should check out: The Employee Engagement Network Management Central Seriously, check them out and learn the potential. If the company won’t pay for collaboration tools, these are free and they work. Lisa says to ignore the IT department. She said it. I don’t want the lawsuits. 22:10 I wouldn’t admit it to Lisa but she’s my hero on this stuff. She tells us about a couple of other tools including RSS feeds and a cool site called  Wetpaint. Resources Check out Tavis Smiley for his ability to ask great questions. Today Wayne Turmel talks with Management Craft’s Lisa Haneberg about her new book, Hip and Sage. We also give a little love to Ning and King George the III. Let’s see how many Google/Bing searches have those two words in the same sentence. Always breaking new ground here….. Lisa Haneberg retruns for yet more good conversation and laughs. Don’t forget to get a copy of the Cranky Middle Manager book of quotes for your team or the manager who needs a laugh! Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show, gang. This is the show if you ever feel like you used to be good at the job and were once the smartest and/or youngest person in the room. Lisa Haneberg has a book for what ails you. Also, we dedicate the show to King George III of England.  Give him a little love this July 4th. 3:06 The quote of the week is from Voltaire. Are you wiser, or just too old and  tired to scandalize anyone? 4:50 You can join the Cranky Middle Manager family any number of ways. The word for this kind of contact by the way is tweetfacelinkblogging. It’s a verb. Look it up.  Here’s how to reach me on ,Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, by the way. 5:30 Welcome back Lisa Haneberg, author of Hip and Sage: Staying Smart, Cool and Competitive in the Workplace. Ever feel like everyone knows stuff you don’t? You’re not alone. Getting old isn’t great, but there’s only one alternative and let’s assume that’s not an option. The biggest thing most of us have to deal with is how we communicate. Do we need to train the kids to communicate and tolerate meetings like us or do we have to think about what and how we talk to them? 8:47 What is hip? What is sage? Hip is being open to the possibilities of the new. Sage is the wisdom as a leader and how we use all that stuff we try.  Here’s the good news, not everyone needs to Twitter. You all need to know what the heck it is. That’s the difference. Here’s my take on Twitter: watching what was going on with Iran was cool. There are also morons who don’t deserve to be part of the conversation. 12:57 Is texting and the rest dumbing down the language or evolving it? Should we complain about the bad spelling or concentrate on the content and speed? Should we teach people to endure bad meetings or quit holding useless meetings? 16:04 You can worry so much about not “wasting time” that we lose the human connections that make relationships work.  One of the things that helps is sites like Ning. Two Ning sites you should check out: The Employee Engagement Network Management Central Seriously, check them out and learn the potential. If the company won’t pay for collaboration tools, these are free and they work. Lisa says to ignore the IT department. She said it. I don’t want the lawsuits. 22:10 I wouldn’t admit it to Lisa but she’s my hero on this stuff. She tells us about a couple of other tools including RSS feeds and a cool site called  Wetpaint. Resources Check out Tavis Smiley for his ability to ask great questions. tag:odeo.com,2009-07-03,24749542 Fri, 03 Jul 2009 09:19:27 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, Technology, General, career, management, manage, Ning, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, Lisa Haneberg, hip and sage http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24750621-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-197-Passion-Driven-Teams-Dan-Bobinski Today the Cranky Middle Manager, Wayne Turmel, welcomes colleague Dan Bobinski back to the show. We’ll talk about passion driven teams, motivation and the war of 1812. Just another day here on the show…. Dan Bobinski makes another visit to the show. Read his column on Management Issues if you haven’t yet. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today we dedicate the show to Andrew Jackson, Old Hickory, 7th president of the Unites States. Small motivated teams can accomplish great things against odds. It helps if the enemy is arrogant, dressed in red and standing in a straight line. 3:04 the quote of the week is from one of my heroes, Michel de Montaigne. The more certain someone is of something, the odds are he’s a blithering idiot. I paraphrase of course…… 4:00 Welcome Dan Bobinski back to the show. How do you create “passion driven teams”. This is a team that is motivated by the work at hand, everyone wants to accomplish the same task. ... Today the Cranky Middle Manager, Wayne Turmel, welcomes colleague Dan Bobinski back to the show. We’ll talk about passion driven teams, motivation and the war of 1812. Just another day here on the show…. Dan Bobinski makes another visit to the show. Read his column on Management Issues if you haven’t yet. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today we dedicate the show to Andrew Jackson, Old Hickory, 7th president of the Unites States. Small motivated teams can accomplish great things against odds. It helps if the enemy is arrogant, dressed in red and standing in a straight line. 3:04 the quote of the week is from one of my heroes, Michel de Montaigne. The more certain someone is of something, the odds are he’s a blithering idiot. I paraphrase of course…… 4:00 Welcome Dan Bobinski back to the show. How do you create “passion driven teams”. This is a team that is motivated by the work at hand, everyone wants to accomplish the same task. Are they working out of momentum or because the manager pushes. One of these works better. Oh, and Dan has dogs :-) 10:00 Why do good people become micro-managers? When you’re a subject expert but unsure how to manage people, you try to control everything. 15:00 What is motivation and how the heck do you get it without manipulation? Is it really motivation, or is it just removing the things that get in the way of successfully doing the task? Dan takes us through an example with sales people. 20:00 I get to give you my definition of the difference between “innovation” and “change”. Getting people’s buy-in to a change is one of the hardest things you can do.  To move people to change you need three things: focus expectation of the “aha” attention density Oh, and dishes of candy do wonders. Really. 26:00 Over the years are the complaints about management changing? Dan has noticed, and Management Issues agrees, that people are concentrating more on human than organizational issues. Is this a permanent change? Dan can be reached on Twitter by the way @danbobinski. While you’re at it, you can find me there at @greatwebmeeting Google Reader is a great tool for finding blogs You can find him on Facebook as well Today the Cranky Middle Manager, Wayne Turmel, welcomes colleague Dan Bobinski back to the show. We’ll talk about passion driven teams, motivation and the war of 1812. Just another day here on the show…. Dan Bobinski makes another visit to the show. Read his column on Management Issues if you haven’t yet. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today we dedicate the show to Andrew Jackson, Old Hickory, 7th president of the Unites States. Small motivated teams can accomplish great things against odds. It helps if the enemy is arrogant, dressed in red and standing in a straight line. 3:04 the quote of the week is from one of my heroes, Michel de Montaigne. The more certain someone is of something, the odds are he’s a blithering idiot. I paraphrase of course…… 4:00 Welcome Dan Bobinski back to the show. How do you create “passion driven teams”. This is a team that is motivated by the work at hand, everyone wants to accomplish the same task. Are they working out of momentum or because the manager pushes. One of these works better. Oh, and Dan has dogs :-) 10:00 Why do good people become micro-managers? When you’re a subject expert but unsure how to manage people, you try to control everything. 15:00 What is motivation and how the heck do you get it without manipulation? Is it really motivation, or is it just removing the things that get in the way of successfully doing the task? Dan takes us through an example with sales people. 20:00 I get to give you my definition of the difference between “innovation” and “change”. Getting people’s buy-in to a change is one of the hardest things you can do.  To move people to change you need three things: focus expectation of the “aha” attention density Oh, and dishes of candy do wonders. Really. 26:00 Over the years are the complaints about management changing? Dan has noticed, and Management Issues agrees, that people are concentrating more on human than organizational issues. Is this a permanent change? Dan can be reached on Twitter by the way @danbobinski. While you’re at it, you can find me there at @greatwebmeeting Google Reader is a great tool for finding blogs You can find him on Facebook as well tag:odeo.com,2009-06-27,24750621 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:14:34 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show General http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24724743-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-196-Collaboration-with-Morten-Hansen Today, Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Morten Hansen about his book Collaboration- when should we collaborate, how do we collaborate and when should we not bother? Also we look at the Underground Railroad as a model to aspire to and there’s still time to sign up for our webinar course. Morten Hansen looking like the happiest Norwegian ever. Don’t forget our “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshops on June 26th. Learn why it’s critical we create human relationships even when we’re not close by, and free and low-cost tools to accomplish that lofty goal. For Europe and North America, click here to learn more and register. For India/Asia/Australia, click here to learn more and register. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today we’re talking about collaboration and overcoming silos- and when we shouldn’t bother. Something you haven’t heard before I’m sure. We dedicate this show to one of history&#8... Today, Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Morten Hansen about his book Collaboration- when should we collaborate, how do we collaborate and when should we not bother? Also we look at the Underground Railroad as a model to aspire to and there’s still time to sign up for our webinar course. Morten Hansen looking like the happiest Norwegian ever. Don’t forget our “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshops on June 26th. Learn why it’s critical we create human relationships even when we’re not close by, and free and low-cost tools to accomplish that lofty goal. For Europe and North America, click here to learn more and register. For India/Asia/Australia, click here to learn more and register. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today we’re talking about collaboration and overcoming silos- and when we shouldn’t bother. Something you haven’t heard before I’m sure. We dedicate this show to one of history’s great collaborations, The Underground Railroad. Stop whining about slow bandwidth and just get on with it…. 2:55 The quote of the week is from Oliver Wendell Holmes- ideas often work best when transplanted from brain to brain… I just hope you have more luck with that tranplant than I had with The Duchess’ geraniums. 3:45 Welcome Dr Morten Hansen. What the heck is collaboration anyway? It’s to work across boundaries to achieve goals and results. That means sometimes it’s the right thing to do and sometimes you shouldn’t do it.  Research shows sometimes you’re worse off playing nicely. 6:11 Does collaboration always get better results? Nope. There are three rules for deciding when to collaborate: Be very picky Identify the barriers to collaboration Put in place a stated, explicit, compelling common goal 9:19 How do you quantify the opportunity to collaborate and how do you have the conversation without sounding like you’re not a team player? This is an important discussion if you want to keep your life your own. 13:30 There are two barriers to collaboration- willingness and ability. Mostly we have the ability which means people are inventing reasons not to collaborate. 18:35 We don’t spend nearly enough time on setting long-term goals and making them explicit. Who does what and why would they bother?  Set a goal, whether it’s landing a man on the moon or just getting that %@%%ing code finished. 20:00 One of the really great concepts in the book is “T-Shaped” management…that a manager needs to be both expert in their niche as well as able to span departments and functions well. Me, I’m a butterfly.. …. but if that’s how you’re measured, that’s what’s going to happen. How about asking the other teams what they’re working on so you know what’s working against your project? Morten’s Resources Today, Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Morten Hansen about his book Collaboration- when should we collaborate, how do we collaborate and when should we not bother? Also we look at the Underground Railroad as a model to aspire to and there’s still time to sign up for our webinar course. Morten Hansen looking like the happiest Norwegian ever. Don’t forget our “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshops on June 26th. Learn why it’s critical we create human relationships even when we’re not close by, and free and low-cost tools to accomplish that lofty goal. For Europe and North America, click here to learn more and register. For India/Asia/Australia, click here to learn more and register. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today we’re talking about collaboration and overcoming silos- and when we shouldn’t bother. Something you haven’t heard before I’m sure. We dedicate this show to one of history’s great collaborations, The Underground Railroad. Stop whining about slow bandwidth and just get on with it…. 2:55 The quote of the week is from Oliver Wendell Holmes- ideas often work best when transplanted from brain to brain… I just hope you have more luck with that tranplant than I had with The Duchess’ geraniums. 3:45 Welcome Dr Morten Hansen. What the heck is collaboration anyway? It’s to work across boundaries to achieve goals and results. That means sometimes it’s the right thing to do and sometimes you shouldn’t do it.  Research shows sometimes you’re worse off playing nicely. 6:11 Does collaboration always get better results? Nope. There are three rules for deciding when to collaborate: Be very picky Identify the barriers to collaboration Put in place a stated, explicit, compelling common goal 9:19 How do you quantify the opportunity to collaborate and how do you have the conversation without sounding like you’re not a team player? This is an important discussion if you want to keep your life your own. 13:30 There are two barriers to collaboration- willingness and ability. Mostly we have the ability which means people are inventing reasons not to collaborate. 18:35 We don’t spend nearly enough time on setting long-term goals and making them explicit. Who does what and why would they bother?  Set a goal, whether it’s landing a man on the moon or just getting that %@%%ing code finished. 20:00 One of the really great concepts in the book is “T-Shaped” management…that a manager needs to be both expert in their niche as well as able to span departments and functions well. Me, I’m a butterfly.. …. but if that’s how you’re measured, that’s what’s going to happen. How about asking the other teams what they’re working on so you know what’s working against your project? Morten’s Resources tag:odeo.com,2009-06-18,24724743 Thu, 18 Jun 2009 09:27:43 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, audio, Leadership, Collaboration, management, Teamwork, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, morten hansen http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24692632-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-195-Rock-and-Roll-Team-Building-with-Jeff-Carlisi This week, Wayne Turmel indulges his rock and roll geek side with Jeff Carlisi, founding member of the band 38 Special and author of a new book on teamwork, Jam- Amp Your Team and Rock your Business. Would you rather have another MBA author from Harvard press? Didn’t think so. Oh and Renaissance knowledge capture and  how ridding yourself of vermin can teach you a lesson in time management. Really. <—–Jeff Carlisi today      Jeff Carlisi 30 years ago when I was digging the band (Southern Rock ruled, even in Canada!). There’s hope for everyone to move from show biz to business……. I hope. Anyway……> Don’t forget our “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshops on June 26th. Learn why it’s critical we create human relationships even when we’re not close by, and free and low-cost tools to accomplish that. For Europe and North America, click here to learn more and register. For India/Asia/Aust... This week, Wayne Turmel indulges his rock and roll geek side with Jeff Carlisi, founding member of the band 38 Special and author of a new book on teamwork, Jam- Amp Your Team and Rock your Business. Would you rather have another MBA author from Harvard press? Didn’t think so. Oh and Renaissance knowledge capture and  how ridding yourself of vermin can teach you a lesson in time management. Really. <—–Jeff Carlisi today      Jeff Carlisi 30 years ago when I was digging the band (Southern Rock ruled, even in Canada!). There’s hope for everyone to move from show biz to business……. I hope. Anyway……> Don’t forget our “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshops on June 26th. Learn why it’s critical we create human relationships even when we’re not close by, and free and low-cost tools to accomplish that. For Europe and North America, click here to learn more and register. For India/Asia/Australia, click here to learn more and register. Show Notes 0:00 Hello everyone and welcome to the show. Today we’re talking Rock and Roll and team building. Hey, at least it’s not another lecture on leadership. We dedicate the show to Johannes Tinctoris knowledge capture with a goose feather….and you can’t make your people use SharePoint. Who’s the real leader here, huh? 3:20 Our quote of the week is from Thomas Fuller, and if you’re looking for a way to stop people in their tracks when they demand faster project updates, this one will do it. it’s so good i can’t believe it didn’t get into the Cranky Middle Manager Book, 125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels…which you can buy HERE. 4:05 Welcome Jeff Carlisi, rock guitarist and the founder of a couple of business Rock Star CEO and Camp Jam. LIke me, he made the move from show business to business-business. Unlike me, he’s been hugely successful at both.  He gives us a quick recap of his career….and why working with other musicians is such a great model for team building. 10:47 How did the band, 38 Special, get together and what can we learn? It helps that everyone had known each other for years. What about when the team is put together and you don’t know anyone? You have to make sure everyone know what they’re doing there. Preach the plan and convince them it’s going to work. 14:55 It’s important that even if you are all brilliant at what you do, you have to pay attention to the business environment you’re working in. You also have to constantly monitor your progress and find a way to differentiate yourself in the market. It’s pretty cool when you can write a song that inspires speakers like Joe Heuer, the Rock and Roll Guru (who you can hear on the Cranky Show here) 19:00 The lead singer isn’t always the leader…. roles are crucial. you can’t force people to like roles they don’t like…put the right people in the role. There’s a good story about finding a songwriter outside the band, that changed things for good. Who could you be learning from? 28:52 Jeff has one of the coolest gigs in the world. He’s in the house band at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Working with high powered “superstar” teams isn’t easy but it is rewarding. 31:50 Jeff’s biggest struggle in business is communication. The idea of human contact seems to have taken a beating…. join the team, Jeff. He’s blown away by Zappos.com and its CEO Tony Hsieh as a great company to work for. Jeff’s Resources His own book , Jam Ted Turner’s book, Call Me Ted Hey, don’t forget My Book since you’re buying. This week, Wayne Turmel indulges his rock and roll geek side with Jeff Carlisi, founding member of the band 38 Special and author of a new book on teamwork, Jam- Amp Your Team and Rock your Business. Would you rather have another MBA author from Harvard press? Didn’t think so. Oh and Renaissance knowledge capture and  how ridding yourself of vermin can teach you a lesson in time management. Really. <—–Jeff Carlisi today      Jeff Carlisi 30 years ago when I was digging the band (Southern Rock ruled, even in Canada!). There’s hope for everyone to move from show biz to business……. I hope. Anyway……> Don’t forget our “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshops on June 26th. Learn why it’s critical we create human relationships even when we’re not close by, and free and low-cost tools to accomplish that. For Europe and North America, click here to learn more and register. For India/Asia/Australia, click here to learn more and register. Show Notes 0:00 Hello everyone and welcome to the show. Today we’re talking Rock and Roll and team building. Hey, at least it’s not another lecture on leadership. We dedicate the show to Johannes Tinctoris knowledge capture with a goose feather….and you can’t make your people use SharePoint. Who’s the real leader here, huh? 3:20 Our quote of the week is from Thomas Fuller, and if you’re looking for a way to stop people in their tracks when they demand faster project updates, this one will do it. it’s so good i can’t believe it didn’t get into the Cranky Middle Manager Book, 125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels…which you can buy HERE. 4:05 Welcome Jeff Carlisi, rock guitarist and the founder of a couple of business Rock Star CEO and Camp Jam. LIke me, he made the move from show business to business-business. Unlike me, he’s been hugely successful at both.  He gives us a quick recap of his career….and why working with other musicians is such a great model for team building. 10:47 How did the band, 38 Special, get together and what can we learn? It helps that everyone had known each other for years. What about when the team is put together and you don’t know anyone? You have to make sure everyone know what they’re doing there. Preach the plan and convince them it’s going to work. 14:55 It’s important that even if you are all brilliant at what you do, you have to pay attention to the business environment you’re working in. You also have to constantly monitor your progress and find a way to differentiate yourself in the market. It’s pretty cool when you can write a song that inspires speakers like Joe Heuer, the Rock and Roll Guru (who you can hear on the Cranky Show here) 19:00 The lead singer isn’t always the leader…. roles are crucial. you can’t force people to like roles they don’t like…put the right people in the role. There’s a good story about finding a songwriter outside the band, that changed things for good. Who could you be learning from? 28:52 Jeff has one of the coolest gigs in the world. He’s in the house band at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Working with high powered “superstar” teams isn’t easy but it is rewarding. 31:50 Jeff’s biggest struggle in business is communication. The idea of human contact seems to have taken a beating…. join the team, Jeff. He’s blown away by Zappos.com and its CEO Tony Hsieh as a great company to work for. Jeff’s Resources His own book , Jam Ted Turner’s book, Call Me Ted Hey, don’t forget My Book since you’re buying. tag:odeo.com,2009-06-11,24692632 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 16:04:41 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, Leadership, rock and roll, ceo, Team Building, wayne turmel, camp jam, Jeff Carlisi http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24646198-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-194-Become-a-Catalyst-Bob-Rosen Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel welcomes Bob Rosen back to discuss how middle managers can be catalysts for long-lasting growth in their companies.  Also, torturing your children and not torturing your remote team mates… just another day here in Cranky land. Bob Rosen comes back for more. Nice to have’im Don’t forget our “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshops on June 26th. Learn why it’s critical we create human relationships even when we’re not close by, and free and low-cost tools to accomplish that. For Europe and North America, click here to learn more and register. For India/Asia/Australia, click here to learn more and register. Show Notes 0:00 Today we are talking about becoming a catalyst- a true change agent to help drive growth in your company. It’s from a book Bob has co-authored called, “The Catalyst-How You Can Become an Extraordinary Growth Leader”. Oh, and speaking of catalysts, how about... Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel welcomes Bob Rosen back to discuss how middle managers can be catalysts for long-lasting growth in their companies.  Also, torturing your children and not torturing your remote team mates… just another day here in Cranky land. Bob Rosen comes back for more. Nice to have’im Don’t forget our “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshops on June 26th. Learn why it’s critical we create human relationships even when we’re not close by, and free and low-cost tools to accomplish that. For Europe and North America, click here to learn more and register. For India/Asia/Australia, click here to learn more and register. Show Notes 0:00 Today we are talking about becoming a catalyst- a true change agent to help drive growth in your company. It’s from a book Bob has co-authored called, “The Catalyst-How You Can Become an Extraordinary Growth Leader”. Oh, and speaking of catalysts, how about we dedicate the show to Peter the I of Russia? There was a catalyst. A badass, but a catalyst. 3:00 The quote of the week is from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. You’re not an insomniac, you’re a catalyst. Repeat as necessary. 4:00 Welcome back Bob Rosen (sorry about the sibilance…blame his phone). What is the role of middle managers in growing companies. Isn’t that the CEO’s job?  Catalysts have 3 things in common: They think differently They see things differently They act differently 7:00 Catalysts are risk takers, chronic learners and have a bias for action. 10:26 The monkey is not on your back…it’s in your head. Are you observing yourself while you act? Are you acting like an entrepeneur or an employee? 13:14 How do you develop the confidence to take something like this on? Growth leaders think of their business as a hypothesis: place small bets fast, do experiments, and kill the project if it ain’t working. They also view constraints as opportunities not road blocks. Really. 17:14 How do you teach someone to see opportunities?  It won’t involve traditional market research, that’s for sure. Part of the confusion is that managers are usually hired for their ability to follow the rules, not break them. 21:50 Did we mention their bias for action? Just get out there and do it… small experiments, act fact, kill bad ideas faster. There is no security anyway….. go for it. And you gotta be tough. Bob’s Resources Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel welcomes Bob Rosen back to discuss how middle managers can be catalysts for long-lasting growth in their companies.  Also, torturing your children and not torturing your remote team mates… just another day here in Cranky land. Bob Rosen comes back for more. Nice to have’im Don’t forget our “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshops on June 26th. Learn why it’s critical we create human relationships even when we’re not close by, and free and low-cost tools to accomplish that. For Europe and North America, click here to learn more and register. For India/Asia/Australia, click here to learn more and register. Show Notes 0:00 Today we are talking about becoming a catalyst- a true change agent to help drive growth in your company. It’s from a book Bob has co-authored called, “The Catalyst-How You Can Become an Extraordinary Growth Leader”. Oh, and speaking of catalysts, how about we dedicate the show to Peter the I of Russia? There was a catalyst. A badass, but a catalyst. 3:00 The quote of the week is from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. You’re not an insomniac, you’re a catalyst. Repeat as necessary. 4:00 Welcome back Bob Rosen (sorry about the sibilance…blame his phone). What is the role of middle managers in growing companies. Isn’t that the CEO’s job?  Catalysts have 3 things in common: They think differently They see things differently They act differently 7:00 Catalysts are risk takers, chronic learners and have a bias for action. 10:26 The monkey is not on your back…it’s in your head. Are you observing yourself while you act? Are you acting like an entrepeneur or an employee? 13:14 How do you develop the confidence to take something like this on? Growth leaders think of their business as a hypothesis: place small bets fast, do experiments, and kill the project if it ain’t working. They also view constraints as opportunities not road blocks. Really. 17:14 How do you teach someone to see opportunities?  It won’t involve traditional market research, that’s for sure. Part of the confusion is that managers are usually hired for their ability to follow the rules, not break them. 21:50 Did we mention their bias for action? Just get out there and do it… small experiments, act fact, kill bad ideas faster. There is no security anyway….. go for it. And you gotta be tough. Bob’s Resources tag:odeo.com,2009-06-03,24646198 Wed, 03 Jun 2009 09:11:54 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, audio, growth, Catalyst, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, middle management, bob Rosen, growing businesses http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24610213-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-193-Hit-the-Ground-Running-Jason-Jennings Today Wayne Turmel looks at something that makes managers cranky, taking over a new team. Jason Jennings is the author of Hit the Ground Running among other books and has some words of advice. Probably don’t want to follow the advice of the Ottoman Emperors though…. bad succession planning there. Jason Jennings talks about hitting the ground running…… Don’t forget our “How To Create and Manage Remote Teams” Webinar Workshops on June 26th. Register by June 12th and save 20%. For Europe and North America click here for more information and to register For India/Asia/Australia, click here for more information and to register Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. I start by groveling for forgiveness to Mike for jumping on him for his post when we WANT YOU TO POST. I was just grumpy. Not as grumpy as Ottoman Emperor Mehmed 1, though. Most brothers just give each other noogies. 3:28 The quote of the week is from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe who compa... Today Wayne Turmel looks at something that makes managers cranky, taking over a new team. Jason Jennings is the author of Hit the Ground Running among other books and has some words of advice. Probably don’t want to follow the advice of the Ottoman Emperors though…. bad succession planning there. Jason Jennings talks about hitting the ground running…… Don’t forget our “How To Create and Manage Remote Teams” Webinar Workshops on June 26th. Register by June 12th and save 20%. For Europe and North America click here for more information and to register For India/Asia/Australia, click here for more information and to register Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. I start by groveling for forgiveness to Mike for jumping on him for his post when we WANT YOU TO POST. I was just grumpy. Not as grumpy as Ottoman Emperor Mehmed 1, though. Most brothers just give each other noogies. 3:28 The quote of the week is from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe who compares new beginnings to a chess match. I’m a lousy chess player but checkers lacks a certain je ne sai quoi. 4:09 Jason Jennings was referred to us by Vince Thompson (hear his interview here) plus he’s a pretty famous guy even before he talked to us.  With all the reorgs and chaos in our workplace, odds are you’re about to take over a new team (you didn’t get the memo yet?).What do most successful CEOS  do first? 7:20 Here’s a bold statement- “conventional wisdom sucks”.  I love when guests trash people by name, don’t you? Still, it’s a great example of companies that get it and companies that don’t. 12:00 How do leaders create connection and help their new team get engaged? Do you know what the strategy is and do you buy in? You’d better find out early- like when you interview for the job. 15:00 How do you help fix broken trust in a team and get them to overcome cynicism? A great story about the power of asking if they believe…. 18:40 All great leaders are willing to put a stake in the ground and hold people (including themselves) accountable. It doesn’t matter if your’e the CEO or leading an Agile scrum. 21:10 Accountability is not designed to be a punishment- although taking your punishment can be part of it. Sepuku is not condoned….but it is understood. Jason’s Resources Today Wayne Turmel looks at something that makes managers cranky, taking over a new team. Jason Jennings is the author of Hit the Ground Running among other books and has some words of advice. Probably don’t want to follow the advice of the Ottoman Emperors though…. bad succession planning there. Jason Jennings talks about hitting the ground running…… Don’t forget our “How To Create and Manage Remote Teams” Webinar Workshops on June 26th. Register by June 12th and save 20%. For Europe and North America click here for more information and to register For India/Asia/Australia, click here for more information and to register Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. I start by groveling for forgiveness to Mike for jumping on him for his post when we WANT YOU TO POST. I was just grumpy. Not as grumpy as Ottoman Emperor Mehmed 1, though. Most brothers just give each other noogies. 3:28 The quote of the week is from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe who compares new beginnings to a chess match. I’m a lousy chess player but checkers lacks a certain je ne sai quoi. 4:09 Jason Jennings was referred to us by Vince Thompson (hear his interview here) plus he’s a pretty famous guy even before he talked to us.  With all the reorgs and chaos in our workplace, odds are you’re about to take over a new team (you didn’t get the memo yet?).What do most successful CEOS  do first? 7:20 Here’s a bold statement- “conventional wisdom sucks”.  I love when guests trash people by name, don’t you? Still, it’s a great example of companies that get it and companies that don’t. 12:00 How do leaders create connection and help their new team get engaged? Do you know what the strategy is and do you buy in? You’d better find out early- like when you interview for the job. 15:00 How do you help fix broken trust in a team and get them to overcome cynicism? A great story about the power of asking if they believe…. 18:40 All great leaders are willing to put a stake in the ground and hold people (including themselves) accountable. It doesn’t matter if your’e the CEO or leading an Agile scrum. 21:10 Accountability is not designed to be a punishment- although taking your punishment can be part of it. Sepuku is not condoned….but it is understood. Jason’s Resources tag:odeo.com,2009-05-26,24610213 Tue, 26 May 2009 09:21:18 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, audio, Leadership, hr, management, training, manager, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24591398-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-192-Management-Rewired-with-Charles-Jacobs Wayne Turmel talks to Charles Jacobs about why the way most of us manage goes against the way our brain really works. In Management Rewired we learn that feedback doesn’t work and we’re better off not getting raises. Oh and we look at a Roman emperor who understood empowerment even as he downsized the Senate. Is everything you think you know about brain science telling you that you’re managing in the wrong way? Listen to Charlie here and make up your own mind. Don’t forget our “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshops on June 26th. Learn why it’s critical we create human relationships even when we’re not close by, and free and low-cost tools to accomplish that. For Europe and North America, click here to learn more and register. For India/Asia/Australia, click here to learn more and register. Show notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Maybe it’s not “what are they thinking?” but “What are they thinking... Wayne Turmel talks to Charles Jacobs about why the way most of us manage goes against the way our brain really works. In Management Rewired we learn that feedback doesn’t work and we’re better off not getting raises. Oh and we look at a Roman emperor who understood empowerment even as he downsized the Senate. Is everything you think you know about brain science telling you that you’re managing in the wrong way? Listen to Charlie here and make up your own mind. Don’t forget our “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshops on June 26th. Learn why it’s critical we create human relationships even when we’re not close by, and free and low-cost tools to accomplish that. For Europe and North America, click here to learn more and register. For India/Asia/Australia, click here to learn more and register. Show notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Maybe it’s not “what are they thinking?” but “What are they thinking with?”. Do our brains resist most management techniques? Well find out with Charles Jacobs, author of “Management Rewired”. Oh and we salute the Roman Emperor Claudius for his great management techniques… his downsizing style, not so much. 2:45 The quote of the week is from Thomas Huxley- are you learning as a child? It’s probably how your brain wants to work……. 3:30 Welcome Charlie Jacobs who is here to talk about some surprising brain research and why management tries to go against the natural order of things. Problem number one- none of us see the world the same way. Anyone who’s ever had a bad 360 knows that….. and our idea of seeking pleasure and pain maybe isn’t what we think it is. 7:00 Why isn’t money more of a motivator for us?  The problem is that none of us look at it the same way. Why are you rewarding your people is actually more important than how you reward them. 10:10 Maybe the most controversial point in his book- feedback as most managers give it doesn’t work, even the most constructive feedback can cause a backlash. If it conflicts with your self image, you’ll reject it. 14:42 A lot of this research has been known for years, why is it so controversial? It causes cognitive dissonance. If what we do as managers isn’t important, what do they need us for and we discount it. 16:32 Cool brain science… Mirror Neurons are extremely cool things, but they not only apply to how we do things, but why…. it’s easy to ascribe motivations to behavior that might not be there. This is what allows us to have empathy… or not. 20:00 The best example of team management in the animal kingdom- slime mold. That’s right, slime mold. it’s actually a cool analogy if you’re not eating while you listen. 25:00 If you don’t walk it like you talk it, people are realllllly good at noticing that. Of coure, the opposite is also true. It is possible to learn leadership, but it takes discipline. Charlie’s Resources Management Rewired The First Tycoon Don't let the weasels get you down! Wayne Turmel talks to Charles Jacobs about why the way most of us manage goes against the way our brain really works. In Management Rewired we learn that feedback doesn’t work and we’re better off not getting raises. Oh and we look at a Roman emperor who understood empowerment even as he downsized the Senate. Is everything you think you know about brain science telling you that you’re managing in the wrong way? Listen to Charlie here and make up your own mind. Don’t forget our “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” webinar workshops on June 26th. Learn why it’s critical we create human relationships even when we’re not close by, and free and low-cost tools to accomplish that. For Europe and North America, click here to learn more and register. For India/Asia/Australia, click here to learn more and register. Show notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Maybe it’s not “what are they thinking?” but “What are they thinking with?”. Do our brains resist most management techniques? Well find out with Charles Jacobs, author of “Management Rewired”. Oh and we salute the Roman Emperor Claudius for his great management techniques… his downsizing style, not so much. 2:45 The quote of the week is from Thomas Huxley- are you learning as a child? It’s probably how your brain wants to work……. 3:30 Welcome Charlie Jacobs who is here to talk about some surprising brain research and why management tries to go against the natural order of things. Problem number one- none of us see the world the same way. Anyone who’s ever had a bad 360 knows that….. and our idea of seeking pleasure and pain maybe isn’t what we think it is. 7:00 Why isn’t money more of a motivator for us?  The problem is that none of us look at it the same way. Why are you rewarding your people is actually more important than how you reward them. 10:10 Maybe the most controversial point in his book- feedback as most managers give it doesn’t work, even the most constructive feedback can cause a backlash. If it conflicts with your self image, you’ll reject it. 14:42 A lot of this research has been known for years, why is it so controversial? It causes cognitive dissonance. If what we do as managers isn’t important, what do they need us for and we discount it. 16:32 Cool brain science… Mirror Neurons are extremely cool things, but they not only apply to how we do things, but why…. it’s easy to ascribe motivations to behavior that might not be there. This is what allows us to have empathy… or not. 20:00 The best example of team management in the animal kingdom- slime mold. That’s right, slime mold. it’s actually a cool analogy if you’re not eating while you listen. 25:00 If you don’t walk it like you talk it, people are realllllly good at noticing that. Of coure, the opposite is also true. It is possible to learn leadership, but it takes discipline. Charlie’s Resources Management Rewired The First Tycoon Don't let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-05-21,24591398 Thu, 21 May 2009 10:17:08 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, audio, Leadership, development, Science, Brain, manager, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, charles jacobs, rewired http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24558244-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-191-Social-and-Practical-Intelligence-Karl-Albrecht Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to author Karl Albrecht about social and practical intelligence can make or break your career.  Also, we take a look at Demosthenes and how you can look smarter without actually getting smarter. A very relaxed Karl Albrecht Don’t forget our webinar workshop: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” . Register by June 12th and save 20% For India/Asia and Australia click here for information and to register For Europe/North America click here for information and to register Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to our 191st Show. Today we’re talking about being able to develop your social skills and common sense. This show is dedicated to Demosthenes, who knew a thing or two about developing yourself and having people overcome their first impression of you. 4:14 The quote of the week is from Marcel Proust, ( who is a great example of the kind of folks we’re talking about) but smart as he was he had no idea why the #$@%** people d... Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to author Karl Albrecht about social and practical intelligence can make or break your career.  Also, we take a look at Demosthenes and how you can look smarter without actually getting smarter. A very relaxed Karl Albrecht Don’t forget our webinar workshop: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” . Register by June 12th and save 20% For India/Asia and Australia click here for information and to register For Europe/North America click here for information and to register Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to our 191st Show. Today we’re talking about being able to develop your social skills and common sense. This show is dedicated to Demosthenes, who knew a thing or two about developing yourself and having people overcome their first impression of you. 4:14 The quote of the week is from Marcel Proust, ( who is a great example of the kind of folks we’re talking about) but smart as he was he had no idea why the #$@%** people did what they do. 5:00 Welcome Karl Albrecht. Yes it’s another discussion of Multiple Intelligences but Karl explains it pretty well.  Anyone who refers to the brain as the bio-computer is probably going to geek out but be worth listening to. 8:54 So not only are there multiple intelligences, but then along comes Emotional Intelligence (listen to a cool Cranky interview about this here). I love when smart people disagree about stuff. How is Emotional Intelligence different from Social Intelligence…or is it?  EI is what’s going on with you, Social Intelligence is how you deal with the external world. 13:03 If multiple intelligences plays to strengths, can you develop your weaker intelligences? For the sake of humanity we hope so. We all have defaults but we can function in the others. What does this mean when we are managing others, especially in the tech fields? 16:47 Practically, how can you change your stripes?  Karl says we have to develop an air of humility, rather than assume our way is best. Language is a key to understanding how people work. By using the language of the other person you can activate your brain and activate the pattern. 20:29 I know we can grow our social intelligence (or I would still be  a highschool nerd). Can you develop common sense though? NOTE: he’s WAY more optimistic than I am. Here’s a question: are you a finished product or are you work in progress? 24:11 An example of developing common sense: defeat group think.  It’s all about divergent thinking vs. convergent thinking.  Even the simple act of asking a question can break a logjam and get thinking moving in a divergent direction again. Karl’s Resources Don't let the weasels get you down Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to author Karl Albrecht about social and practical intelligence can make or break your career.  Also, we take a look at Demosthenes and how you can look smarter without actually getting smarter. A very relaxed Karl Albrecht Don’t forget our webinar workshop: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” . Register by June 12th and save 20% For India/Asia and Australia click here for information and to register For Europe/North America click here for information and to register Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to our 191st Show. Today we’re talking about being able to develop your social skills and common sense. This show is dedicated to Demosthenes, who knew a thing or two about developing yourself and having people overcome their first impression of you. 4:14 The quote of the week is from Marcel Proust, ( who is a great example of the kind of folks we’re talking about) but smart as he was he had no idea why the #$@%** people did what they do. 5:00 Welcome Karl Albrecht. Yes it’s another discussion of Multiple Intelligences but Karl explains it pretty well.  Anyone who refers to the brain as the bio-computer is probably going to geek out but be worth listening to. 8:54 So not only are there multiple intelligences, but then along comes Emotional Intelligence (listen to a cool Cranky interview about this here). I love when smart people disagree about stuff. How is Emotional Intelligence different from Social Intelligence…or is it?  EI is what’s going on with you, Social Intelligence is how you deal with the external world. 13:03 If multiple intelligences plays to strengths, can you develop your weaker intelligences? For the sake of humanity we hope so. We all have defaults but we can function in the others. What does this mean when we are managing others, especially in the tech fields? 16:47 Practically, how can you change your stripes?  Karl says we have to develop an air of humility, rather than assume our way is best. Language is a key to understanding how people work. By using the language of the other person you can activate your brain and activate the pattern. 20:29 I know we can grow our social intelligence (or I would still be  a highschool nerd). Can you develop common sense though? NOTE: he’s WAY more optimistic than I am. Here’s a question: are you a finished product or are you work in progress? 24:11 An example of developing common sense: defeat group think.  It’s all about divergent thinking vs. convergent thinking.  Even the simple act of asking a question can break a logjam and get thinking moving in a divergent direction again. Karl’s Resources Don't let the weasels get you down tag:odeo.com,2009-05-14,24558244 Thu, 14 May 2009 17:13:05 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, Interview, audio, management, intelligence, social, practical, manager, thinking, emotional, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, Karl Albrecht http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24558247-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-190-Being-Strategic-with-Erika-Andersen The Cranky Middle Manager, Wayne Turmel, talks to returning guest Erika Andersen about her new book, Being Strategic, the difference between strategy and tactics, and how a Welsh king figured this out a long time ago. Also, if you manage remote teams you will not want to miss our next webinar! Erika Andersen comes back for more- glutton for punishment isn't she? Don’t forget to join us for our next webinar: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”. If you’re in Australia/Asia/India click here to learn more and register If you’re in Europe or North America, click here to learn more and register Take a look at some of the comments from past participants: “The support materials, assessments, and after webinar follow up are outstanding! This was NOT a “hit and run” webinar!” “The supporting research on reaching out to virtual teams was great” “Every manager in our organization should take this program” Show... The Cranky Middle Manager, Wayne Turmel, talks to returning guest Erika Andersen about her new book, Being Strategic, the difference between strategy and tactics, and how a Welsh king figured this out a long time ago. Also, if you manage remote teams you will not want to miss our next webinar! Erika Andersen comes back for more- glutton for punishment isn't she? Don’t forget to join us for our next webinar: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”. If you’re in Australia/Asia/India click here to learn more and register If you’re in Europe or North America, click here to learn more and register Take a look at some of the comments from past participants: “The support materials, assessments, and after webinar follow up are outstanding! This was NOT a “hit and run” webinar!” “The supporting research on reaching out to virtual teams was great” “Every manager in our organization should take this program” Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Last show we talked about Erika Andersen’s new book, “Being Strategic- Plan for Success;Out-think your competitors; Stay ahead of change”. (Listen to Erika’s first conversation with us here). Well she uses Llewellyn the Great as a starting point, why shouldn’t we? Would you want YOUR nickname on your business card? 2:43 The quote of the week is from Anatole France. Are you acting or dreaming? One will keep you mired in the tactical, brothers and sisters. 3:15 Welcome Erika back to the show. Let’s start with a simple question- what’s the difference between strategic and tactical? If you’re confused you’re not alone and there is no common definition but here’s one:  “Being strategic means to consistently focus on those core directional choices that will best move you towards your hoped-for future”. 7:27 Does strategic thinking happen at higher levels or do middle managers have a role in all this? It’s important for middle managers because it’s how you can train your bosses. It’s also important for us to look at our own careers strategically. 11:00 What do Welsh castles have to do with thinking strategically? Our dedicatee built a bunch of castles for strategic purposes and it inspired this book. She reminds us (she said this last time too, but it’s worth repeating) that we need to “pull the camera back”. 18:20 Are there warning signs that you’re looking at the tactical, rather than the strategic? If you’re hung up on the paperwork, you’re probably not paying attention to the big picture. Don’t forget, your job as manager is to help people see the strategic context for the tactical stuff they are dealing with. 21:41 You can learn to be strategic…the steps are: define the challenge, get clear about the current state, clarify your hope, look at the obstacles, think strategically how to get there, then work on the tactics. There, now go and sin no more. Erika’s Resources: 100 Best Business Books of All Time (she’s in it!) Her book- Being Strategic Stephen M R Covey’s “The Speed of Trust” Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely Don’t let the weasels get you down! The Cranky Middle Manager, Wayne Turmel, talks to returning guest Erika Andersen about her new book, Being Strategic, the difference between strategy and tactics, and how a Welsh king figured this out a long time ago. Also, if you manage remote teams you will not want to miss our next webinar! Erika Andersen comes back for more- glutton for punishment isn't she? Don’t forget to join us for our next webinar: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”. If you’re in Australia/Asia/India click here to learn more and register If you’re in Europe or North America, click here to learn more and register Take a look at some of the comments from past participants: “The support materials, assessments, and after webinar follow up are outstanding! This was NOT a “hit and run” webinar!” “The supporting research on reaching out to virtual teams was great” “Every manager in our organization should take this program” Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Last show we talked about Erika Andersen’s new book, “Being Strategic- Plan for Success;Out-think your competitors; Stay ahead of change”. (Listen to Erika’s first conversation with us here). Well she uses Llewellyn the Great as a starting point, why shouldn’t we? Would you want YOUR nickname on your business card? 2:43 The quote of the week is from Anatole France. Are you acting or dreaming? One will keep you mired in the tactical, brothers and sisters. 3:15 Welcome Erika back to the show. Let’s start with a simple question- what’s the difference between strategic and tactical? If you’re confused you’re not alone and there is no common definition but here’s one:  “Being strategic means to consistently focus on those core directional choices that will best move you towards your hoped-for future”. 7:27 Does strategic thinking happen at higher levels or do middle managers have a role in all this? It’s important for middle managers because it’s how you can train your bosses. It’s also important for us to look at our own careers strategically. 11:00 What do Welsh castles have to do with thinking strategically? Our dedicatee built a bunch of castles for strategic purposes and it inspired this book. She reminds us (she said this last time too, but it’s worth repeating) that we need to “pull the camera back”. 18:20 Are there warning signs that you’re looking at the tactical, rather than the strategic? If you’re hung up on the paperwork, you’re probably not paying attention to the big picture. Don’t forget, your job as manager is to help people see the strategic context for the tactical stuff they are dealing with. 21:41 You can learn to be strategic…the steps are: define the challenge, get clear about the current state, clarify your hope, look at the obstacles, think strategically how to get there, then work on the tactics. There, now go and sin no more. Erika’s Resources: 100 Best Business Books of All Time (she’s in it!) Her book- Being Strategic Stephen M R Covey’s “The Speed of Trust” Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely Don’t let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-05-08,24558247 Fri, 08 May 2009 13:17:41 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, Leadership, strategy, training, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, Being Strategic, Erika Andersen http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24518667-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-189-The-Trouble-With-Leadership-Training-Kevin-Eikenberry Today Wayne Turmel and Kevin Eikenberry talk about why perfectly good leadership training often doesn’t work… and how managers can help make it stick. We also look at Babylonian documentation, a new Cranky Middle Manager Webinar and a free offer for listeners. Kevin Eikenberry. You can get a month of his teleseminars FREE by using this link to register! Who loves you like we do? We are holding another webinar class on “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”. For information and to register no matter where you are in the world we make it easy: If you are in Europe or North America, Click Here If you are in India, Asia or Australian time zones, Click Here Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show, gang. We tell truth to power, because let’s face it, Power will never find us here. We dedicate this show to Hamurabi, king of Babylon and model for all of us to document, document, document. 3:40 our quote of the week is from Machiavelli, but having a bad reputation ... Today Wayne Turmel and Kevin Eikenberry talk about why perfectly good leadership training often doesn’t work… and how managers can help make it stick. We also look at Babylonian documentation, a new Cranky Middle Manager Webinar and a free offer for listeners. Kevin Eikenberry. You can get a month of his teleseminars FREE by using this link to register! Who loves you like we do? We are holding another webinar class on “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”. For information and to register no matter where you are in the world we make it easy: If you are in Europe or North America, Click Here If you are in India, Asia or Australian time zones, Click Here Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show, gang. We tell truth to power, because let’s face it, Power will never find us here. We dedicate this show to Hamurabi, king of Babylon and model for all of us to document, document, document. 3:40 our quote of the week is from Machiavelli, but having a bad reputation doesn’t make it wrong. Do you surround yourself with smart people? 4:30 Welcome back Kevin Eikenberry, author of Remarkable Leadership and a good egg. This is an on the record version of conversations we’ve had off line for a while. Why doesn’t leadership development training seem to work?  Okay, one more time… training is an event. Learning is a process. 9:00 There’s nothing necessarily wrong with your training or your trainer, it’s about linking it and using it your real world. It’s hard to show you’re now better than you were when you came in. How do we turn it into a process? 11:21 How do we turn learning into action? Kevin holds us accountable. Oh thanks, we need more of THAT. He does give me a good tip about giving yourself processing time. 14:33 Despite what they tell us in consultant school, this will never happen on an organizational basis. it starts with us. 17:30 Leadership is made up of a bunch of competencies (pick your own model at your leisure) but one big one is be a learner, and encourage learning on your team. Are you helping them apply what they learn when they learn it? Are you even sharing THIS show with your team and why the heck not? 25:00 Kevin tells us about his teleseminars. You can get the month of May for free by signing up and using the link here. or you can reach him at www.kevineikenberry.com Kevin’s Resources Erika Andersen’s new book ( she’s an upcoming guest!) How the States Got Their Shapes Don't let the weasels get you down Today Wayne Turmel and Kevin Eikenberry talk about why perfectly good leadership training often doesn’t work… and how managers can help make it stick. We also look at Babylonian documentation, a new Cranky Middle Manager Webinar and a free offer for listeners. Kevin Eikenberry. You can get a month of his teleseminars FREE by using this link to register! Who loves you like we do? We are holding another webinar class on “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”. For information and to register no matter where you are in the world we make it easy: If you are in Europe or North America, Click Here If you are in India, Asia or Australian time zones, Click Here Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show, gang. We tell truth to power, because let’s face it, Power will never find us here. We dedicate this show to Hamurabi, king of Babylon and model for all of us to document, document, document. 3:40 our quote of the week is from Machiavelli, but having a bad reputation doesn’t make it wrong. Do you surround yourself with smart people? 4:30 Welcome back Kevin Eikenberry, author of Remarkable Leadership and a good egg. This is an on the record version of conversations we’ve had off line for a while. Why doesn’t leadership development training seem to work?  Okay, one more time… training is an event. Learning is a process. 9:00 There’s nothing necessarily wrong with your training or your trainer, it’s about linking it and using it your real world. It’s hard to show you’re now better than you were when you came in. How do we turn it into a process? 11:21 How do we turn learning into action? Kevin holds us accountable. Oh thanks, we need more of THAT. He does give me a good tip about giving yourself processing time. 14:33 Despite what they tell us in consultant school, this will never happen on an organizational basis. it starts with us. 17:30 Leadership is made up of a bunch of competencies (pick your own model at your leisure) but one big one is be a learner, and encourage learning on your team. Are you helping them apply what they learn when they learn it? Are you even sharing THIS show with your team and why the heck not? 25:00 Kevin tells us about his teleseminars. You can get the month of May for free by signing up and using the link here. or you can reach him at www.kevineikenberry.com Kevin’s Resources Erika Andersen’s new book ( she’s an upcoming guest!) How the States Got Their Shapes Don't let the weasels get you down tag:odeo.com,2009-04-29,24518667 Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:52:46 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, audio, Leadership, hr, training, kevin eikenberry, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, remarkable leadership http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25362704-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-188-Undress-for-Success-Kate-Lister Today Wayne Turmel talks about how telecommuting and telework has changed the role of the middle manager with Kate Lister, co-author of Undress for Success- The Naked Truth About Making Money At Home. Oh and Marcel Proust and Ethiopian Falashas get a mention too. The usual eclectic mess that is this podcast. Author Kate Lister emerges from her teleworking hibernation long enough for this picture. She saw her shadow so it’s 6 more weeks of project work. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Misery loves company, we’ll provide the love and the company, your misery is your responsibility. Today we talk Teleworking with Kate Lister, and since distance makes communication tough even when you try to do what you should, we present as proof, Menelik I, king of the Falashas, Emperor of Ethiopia and more Jewish than many Jews if separated by time and distance. 3:00 I bring you the quote of the week from Marcel Proust, which I shouldn’t have done since no one can give you wisd... Today Wayne Turmel talks about how telecommuting and telework has changed the role of the middle manager with Kate Lister, co-author of Undress for Success- The Naked Truth About Making Money At Home. Oh and Marcel Proust and Ethiopian Falashas get a mention too. The usual eclectic mess that is this podcast. Author Kate Lister emerges from her teleworking hibernation long enough for this picture. She saw her shadow so it’s 6 more weeks of project work. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Misery loves company, we’ll provide the love and the company, your misery is your responsibility. Today we talk Teleworking with Kate Lister, and since distance makes communication tough even when you try to do what you should, we present as proof, Menelik I, king of the Falashas, Emperor of Ethiopia and more Jewish than many Jews if separated by time and distance. 3:00 I bring you the quote of the week from Marcel Proust, which I shouldn’t have done since no one can give you wisdom, you have to get it on your own. 4:14 Today we’re talking to Kate Lister, co author of Undress for Success.  How is working from home making things easier or more difficult for managers and companies?  Well the world is changing and US companies could save over half a BILLION dollars a year if more people teleworked. How do you determine whether your job could be done at home? 6:54 Federal employees in the US are mandated now to work at home if they can…which is no big surprise, a lot of them have been phoning it in for years….. the cost of setting up a telecommuter can be $300-$2500 dollars versus the costs of keeping an office for them. 10:30 If you’re not crazy about the idea of being out of the office, here’s a question for you- Do you see your boss everyday now? Probably not.  There are real concerns though. What are the things companies and individuals need to think about. Fundamental to this is very precise metrics for success. Once you’ve set the metrics, get the heck out of their way. 14:00 Home Shopping Network learned they can increase customer satisfaction and reduce turnover by having people work from home. 15:50 Okay, if you are a people person, it’s hard to work from home. Kate is a nice person but apparently highly anti-social…. some of us need to get out of our 4 walls. MySQL is an amazing example of the entire company working remotely. I also feel better about going to Caribou Coffee just to sip coffee and stare at my laptop even though that’s what I do at home. I’m still around people. 21:40 Developing a routine is important. What works for you works for you. I need to put on my big boy clothes…. others don’t. You also need to manage the family- Kate tells a story about a mom and a tiara that will leave some serious scars on those kids. 23:48 The dark side of working from home is overworking. How do you set limits and what’s the role of the manager in helping their people set limits that make sense, even while benefitting from the extra work? And what are the legalities? 27:40 It takes planning for a company to put together a teleworking program. Security is frequently over-analyzed but it’s important….  remember, if you’re a moron at work, you’re not going to get smarter working from home. Kate’s Resources Her book Her website check it out Managing Telework by Jack Nilles Free Agent Nation  Daniel Pink The Future of Work- Thomas Malone Don't let the weasels get you down! Today Wayne Turmel talks about how telecommuting and telework has changed the role of the middle manager with Kate Lister, co-author of Undress for Success- The Naked Truth About Making Money At Home. Oh and Marcel Proust and Ethiopian Falashas get a mention too. The usual eclectic mess that is this podcast. Author Kate Lister emerges from her teleworking hibernation long enough for this picture. She saw her shadow so it’s 6 more weeks of project work. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Misery loves company, we’ll provide the love and the company, your misery is your responsibility. Today we talk Teleworking with Kate Lister, and since distance makes communication tough even when you try to do what you should, we present as proof, Menelik I, king of the Falashas, Emperor of Ethiopia and more Jewish than many Jews if separated by time and distance. 3:00 I bring you the quote of the week from Marcel Proust, which I shouldn’t have done since no one can give you wisdom, you have to get it on your own. 4:14 Today we’re talking to Kate Lister, co author of Undress for Success.  How is working from home making things easier or more difficult for managers and companies?  Well the world is changing and US companies could save over half a BILLION dollars a year if more people teleworked. How do you determine whether your job could be done at home? 6:54 Federal employees in the US are mandated now to work at home if they can…which is no big surprise, a lot of them have been phoning it in for years….. the cost of setting up a telecommuter can be $300-$2500 dollars versus the costs of keeping an office for them. 10:30 If you’re not crazy about the idea of being out of the office, here’s a question for you- Do you see your boss everyday now? Probably not.  There are real concerns though. What are the things companies and individuals need to think about. Fundamental to this is very precise metrics for success. Once you’ve set the metrics, get the heck out of their way. 14:00 Home Shopping Network learned they can increase customer satisfaction and reduce turnover by having people work from home. 15:50 Okay, if you are a people person, it’s hard to work from home. Kate is a nice person but apparently highly anti-social…. some of us need to get out of our 4 walls. MySQL is an amazing example of the entire company working remotely. I also feel better about going to Caribou Coffee just to sip coffee and stare at my laptop even though that’s what I do at home. I’m still around people. 21:40 Developing a routine is important. What works for you works for you. I need to put on my big boy clothes…. others don’t. You also need to manage the family- Kate tells a story about a mom and a tiara that will leave some serious scars on those kids. 23:48 The dark side of working from home is overworking. How do you set limits and what’s the role of the manager in helping their people set limits that make sense, even while benefitting from the extra work? And what are the legalities? 27:40 It takes planning for a company to put together a teleworking program. Security is frequently over-analyzed but it’s important….  remember, if you’re a moron at work, you’re not going to get smarter working from home. Kate’s Resources Her book Her website check it out Managing Telework by Jack Nilles Free Agent Nation  Daniel Pink The Future of Work- Thomas Malone Don't let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-04-18,25362704 Sat, 18 Apr 2009 11:04:23 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, management, Telecommuting, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, telework, middle manager, remote teams, kate lister, undress for success http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24467460-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-188-Undress-for-Success-Kate-Lister Today Wayne Turmel talks about how telecommuting and telework has changed the role of the middle manager with Kate Lister, co-author of Undress for Success- The Naked Truth About Making Money At Home. Oh and Marcel Proust and Ethiopian Falashas get a mention too. The usual eclectic mess that is this podcast. Author Kate Lister emerges from her teleworking hibernation long enough for this picture. She saw her shadow so it’s 6 more weeks of project work. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Misery loves company, we’ll provide the love and the company, your misery is your responsibility. Today we talk Teleworking with Kate Lister, and since distance makes communication tough even when you try to do what you should, we present as proof, Menelik I, king of the Falashas, Emperor of Ethiopia and more Jewish than many Jews if separated by time and distance. 3:00 I bring you the quote of the week from Marcel Proust, which I shouldn’t have done since no one can give you wisd... Today Wayne Turmel talks about how telecommuting and telework has changed the role of the middle manager with Kate Lister, co-author of Undress for Success- The Naked Truth About Making Money At Home. Oh and Marcel Proust and Ethiopian Falashas get a mention too. The usual eclectic mess that is this podcast. Author Kate Lister emerges from her teleworking hibernation long enough for this picture. She saw her shadow so it’s 6 more weeks of project work. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Misery loves company, we’ll provide the love and the company, your misery is your responsibility. Today we talk Teleworking with Kate Lister, and since distance makes communication tough even when you try to do what you should, we present as proof, Menelik I, king of the Falashas, Emperor of Ethiopia and more Jewish than many Jews if separated by time and distance. 3:00 I bring you the quote of the week from Marcel Proust, which I shouldn’t have done since no one can give you wisdom, you have to get it on your own. 4:14 Today we’re talking to Kate Lister, co author of Undress for Success.  How is working from home making things easier or more difficult for managers and companies?  Well the world is changing and US companies could save over half a BILLION dollars a year if more people teleworked. How do you determine whether your job could be done at home? 6:54 Federal employees in the US are mandated now to work at home if they can…which is no big surprise, a lot of them have been phoning it in for years….. the cost of setting up a telecommuter can be $300-$2500 dollars versus the costs of keeping an office for them. 10:30 If you’re not crazy about the idea of being out of the office, here’s a question for you- Do you see your boss everyday now? Probably not.  There are real concerns though. What are the things companies and individuals need to think about. Fundamental to this is very precise metrics for success. Once you’ve set the metrics, get the heck out of their way. 14:00 Home Shopping Network learned they can increase customer satisfaction and reduce turnover by having people work from home. 15:50 Okay, if you are a people person, it’s hard to work from home. Kate is a nice person but apparently highly anti-social…. some of us need to get out of our 4 walls. MySQL is an amazing example of the entire company working remotely. I also feel better about going to Caribou Coffee just to sip coffee and stare at my laptop even though that’s what I do at home. I’m still around people. 21:40 Developing a routine is important. What works for you works for you. I need to put on my big boy clothes…. others don’t. You also need to manage the family- Kate tells a story about a mom and a tiara that will leave some serious scars on those kids. 23:48 The dark side of working from home is overworking. How do you set limits and what’s the role of the manager in helping their people set limits that make sense, even while benefitting from the extra work? And what are the legalities? 27:40 It takes planning for a company to put together a teleworking program. Security is frequently over-analyzed but it’s important….  remember, if you’re a moron at work, you’re not going to get smarter working from home. Kate’s Resources Her book Her website check it out Managing Telework by Jack Nilles Free Agent Nation  Daniel Pink The Future of Work- Thomas Malone Don't let the weasels get you down! Today Wayne Turmel talks about how telecommuting and telework has changed the role of the middle manager with Kate Lister, co-author of Undress for Success- The Naked Truth About Making Money At Home. Oh and Marcel Proust and Ethiopian Falashas get a mention too. The usual eclectic mess that is this podcast. Author Kate Lister emerges from her teleworking hibernation long enough for this picture. She saw her shadow so it’s 6 more weeks of project work. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Misery loves company, we’ll provide the love and the company, your misery is your responsibility. Today we talk Teleworking with Kate Lister, and since distance makes communication tough even when you try to do what you should, we present as proof, Menelik I, king of the Falashas, Emperor of Ethiopia and more Jewish than many Jews if separated by time and distance. 3:00 I bring you the quote of the week from Marcel Proust, which I shouldn’t have done since no one can give you wisdom, you have to get it on your own. 4:14 Today we’re talking to Kate Lister, co author of Undress for Success.  How is working from home making things easier or more difficult for managers and companies?  Well the world is changing and US companies could save over half a BILLION dollars a year if more people teleworked. How do you determine whether your job could be done at home? 6:54 Federal employees in the US are mandated now to work at home if they can…which is no big surprise, a lot of them have been phoning it in for years….. the cost of setting up a telecommuter can be $300-$2500 dollars versus the costs of keeping an office for them. 10:30 If you’re not crazy about the idea of being out of the office, here’s a question for you- Do you see your boss everyday now? Probably not.  There are real concerns though. What are the things companies and individuals need to think about. Fundamental to this is very precise metrics for success. Once you’ve set the metrics, get the heck out of their way. 14:00 Home Shopping Network learned they can increase customer satisfaction and reduce turnover by having people work from home. 15:50 Okay, if you are a people person, it’s hard to work from home. Kate is a nice person but apparently highly anti-social…. some of us need to get out of our 4 walls. MySQL is an amazing example of the entire company working remotely. I also feel better about going to Caribou Coffee just to sip coffee and stare at my laptop even though that’s what I do at home. I’m still around people. 21:40 Developing a routine is important. What works for you works for you. I need to put on my big boy clothes…. others don’t. You also need to manage the family- Kate tells a story about a mom and a tiara that will leave some serious scars on those kids. 23:48 The dark side of working from home is overworking. How do you set limits and what’s the role of the manager in helping their people set limits that make sense, even while benefitting from the extra work? And what are the legalities? 27:40 It takes planning for a company to put together a teleworking program. Security is frequently over-analyzed but it’s important….  remember, if you’re a moron at work, you’re not going to get smarter working from home. Kate’s Resources Her book Her website check it out Managing Telework by Jack Nilles Free Agent Nation  Daniel Pink The Future of Work- Thomas Malone Don't let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-04-18,24467460 Sat, 18 Apr 2009 10:04:23 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, management, Telecommuting, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, telework, middle manager, remote teams, kate lister, undress for success http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25362705-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-187-Greater-Than-Yourself-with-Steve-Farber Today Wayne Turmel talks mentoring, growing employees and helping your team become “Greater Than Yourself” with author Steve Farber. Also we talk about the world’s greatest mentoring streak, and a bad writer gives good advice. The one and only Steve Farber makes his return visit to the show. Don’t forget to visit www.crankymiddlemanager.com and sign up for our newsletter and www.greatwebmeetings.com to help your team use web presentations more effectively. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the 187th episode of the show. Today we talk about the part of the job we all appreciated from our managers and seldom get to do for our folks…. mentoring and helping them become “greater than ourselves”. We dedicate this show to an amazing streak, Socrates to Plato to Aristotle to Alexander the Great and then it all comes to a screeching halt. 3:05 The quote of the week is from Edward Bulwer Lytton, godawful novelist but a smart guy. How are you inspiring your t... Today Wayne Turmel talks mentoring, growing employees and helping your team become “Greater Than Yourself” with author Steve Farber. Also we talk about the world’s greatest mentoring streak, and a bad writer gives good advice. The one and only Steve Farber makes his return visit to the show. Don’t forget to visit www.crankymiddlemanager.com and sign up for our newsletter and www.greatwebmeetings.com to help your team use web presentations more effectively. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the 187th episode of the show. Today we talk about the part of the job we all appreciated from our managers and seldom get to do for our folks…. mentoring and helping them become “greater than ourselves”. We dedicate this show to an amazing streak, Socrates to Plato to Aristotle to Alexander the Great and then it all comes to a screeching halt. 3:05 The quote of the week is from Edward Bulwer Lytton, godawful novelist but a smart guy. How are you inspiring your team to learn and excel??? 4:00 Welcome Steve Farber back to the show. (Hear his first interview here) His new book “Greater Than Yourself” is a good excuse to have him back.  Check out the website to see how fact and fiction blend, but the deal is that coaching is not nearly enough. Can we help people be greater than we are? Why don’t we spend more time on mentoring and coaching? Our job is to help people be better at whatever they do than we are. 8:10 The system is called GTY…. which is not GTD but it’s pretty darned good on its own. The system has three tenets: Expand yourself Give yourself Replicate yourself 10:30 What do we have that others want to surpass? When we tell ourselves that we aren’t worthy, it’s a convenient lie to relieve us of responsibility. This whole process starts with taking stock of your resources. What do you do better than most people…and be honest. 14:40 Your ability to grow and expand your knowledge is critical to helping others. The more resources you have, the greater your competitive advantage. The purpose of expanding your knowledge is to give it away. 17:43 “Replicate yourself”, does not mean creating clones and make everyone do things the way you do. Everyone should have a GTY project and they should have one and so on and so on. 20:07 You can watch Steve’s GTY project in real time on his website, which is very cool.  The beneficiary is Tommy Spaulding.  Pat Lencioni (hear his Cranky interview here)  and Matthew Kelly (his show is here) are part of this process as well. 24:30 How is this different than traditional mentoring? Mentoring has limitations built in since it’s a “program” or “system”. It’s also more than the Golden Rule. Don’t let the weasels get you down!! Today Wayne Turmel talks mentoring, growing employees and helping your team become “Greater Than Yourself” with author Steve Farber. Also we talk about the world’s greatest mentoring streak, and a bad writer gives good advice. The one and only Steve Farber makes his return visit to the show. Don’t forget to visit www.crankymiddlemanager.com and sign up for our newsletter and www.greatwebmeetings.com to help your team use web presentations more effectively. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the 187th episode of the show. Today we talk about the part of the job we all appreciated from our managers and seldom get to do for our folks…. mentoring and helping them become “greater than ourselves”. We dedicate this show to an amazing streak, Socrates to Plato to Aristotle to Alexander the Great and then it all comes to a screeching halt. 3:05 The quote of the week is from Edward Bulwer Lytton, godawful novelist but a smart guy. How are you inspiring your team to learn and excel??? 4:00 Welcome Steve Farber back to the show. (Hear his first interview here) His new book “Greater Than Yourself” is a good excuse to have him back.  Check out the website to see how fact and fiction blend, but the deal is that coaching is not nearly enough. Can we help people be greater than we are? Why don’t we spend more time on mentoring and coaching? Our job is to help people be better at whatever they do than we are. 8:10 The system is called GTY…. which is not GTD but it’s pretty darned good on its own. The system has three tenets: Expand yourself Give yourself Replicate yourself 10:30 What do we have that others want to surpass? When we tell ourselves that we aren’t worthy, it’s a convenient lie to relieve us of responsibility. This whole process starts with taking stock of your resources. What do you do better than most people…and be honest. 14:40 Your ability to grow and expand your knowledge is critical to helping others. The more resources you have, the greater your competitive advantage. The purpose of expanding your knowledge is to give it away. 17:43 “Replicate yourself”, does not mean creating clones and make everyone do things the way you do. Everyone should have a GTY project and they should have one and so on and so on. 20:07 You can watch Steve’s GTY project in real time on his website, which is very cool.  The beneficiary is Tommy Spaulding.  Pat Lencioni (hear his Cranky interview here)  and Matthew Kelly (his show is here) are part of this process as well. 24:30 How is this different than traditional mentoring? Mentoring has limitations built in since it’s a “program” or “system”. It’s also more than the Golden Rule. Don’t let the weasels get you down!! tag:odeo.com,2009-04-09,25362705 Thu, 09 Apr 2009 07:43:36 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, Leadership, hr, training, mentoring, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, Greater Than Yourself, Steve Farber http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24430021-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-187-Greater-Than-Yourself-with-Steve-Farber Today Wayne Turmel talks mentoring, growing employees and helping your team become “Greater Than Yourself” with author Steve Farber. Also we talk about the world’s greatest mentoring streak, and a bad writer gives good advice. The one and only Steve Farber makes his return visit to the show. Don’t forget to visit www.crankymiddlemanager.com and sign up for our newsletter and www.greatwebmeetings.com to help your team use web presentations more effectively. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the 187th episode of the show. Today we talk about the part of the job we all appreciated from our managers and seldom get to do for our folks…. mentoring and helping them become “greater than ourselves”. We dedicate this show to an amazing streak, Socrates to Plato to Aristotle to Alexander the Great and then it all comes to a screeching halt. 3:05 The quote of the week is from Edward Bulwer Lytton, godawful novelist but a smart guy. How are you inspiring your t... Today Wayne Turmel talks mentoring, growing employees and helping your team become “Greater Than Yourself” with author Steve Farber. Also we talk about the world’s greatest mentoring streak, and a bad writer gives good advice. The one and only Steve Farber makes his return visit to the show. Don’t forget to visit www.crankymiddlemanager.com and sign up for our newsletter and www.greatwebmeetings.com to help your team use web presentations more effectively. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the 187th episode of the show. Today we talk about the part of the job we all appreciated from our managers and seldom get to do for our folks…. mentoring and helping them become “greater than ourselves”. We dedicate this show to an amazing streak, Socrates to Plato to Aristotle to Alexander the Great and then it all comes to a screeching halt. 3:05 The quote of the week is from Edward Bulwer Lytton, godawful novelist but a smart guy. How are you inspiring your team to learn and excel??? 4:00 Welcome Steve Farber back to the show. (Hear his first interview here) His new book “Greater Than Yourself” is a good excuse to have him back.  Check out the website to see how fact and fiction blend, but the deal is that coaching is not nearly enough. Can we help people be greater than we are? Why don’t we spend more time on mentoring and coaching? Our job is to help people be better at whatever they do than we are. 8:10 The system is called GTY…. which is not GTD but it’s pretty darned good on its own. The system has three tenets: Expand yourself Give yourself Replicate yourself 10:30 What do we have that others want to surpass? When we tell ourselves that we aren’t worthy, it’s a convenient lie to relieve us of responsibility. This whole process starts with taking stock of your resources. What do you do better than most people…and be honest. 14:40 Your ability to grow and expand your knowledge is critical to helping others. The more resources you have, the greater your competitive advantage. The purpose of expanding your knowledge is to give it away. 17:43 “Replicate yourself”, does not mean creating clones and make everyone do things the way you do. Everyone should have a GTY project and they should have one and so on and so on. 20:07 You can watch Steve’s GTY project in real time on his website, which is very cool.  The beneficiary is Tommy Spaulding.  Pat Lencioni (hear his Cranky interview here)  and Matthew Kelly (his show is here) are part of this process as well. 24:30 How is this different than traditional mentoring? Mentoring has limitations built in since it’s a “program” or “system”. It’s also more than the Golden Rule. Don’t let the weasels get you down!! Today Wayne Turmel talks mentoring, growing employees and helping your team become “Greater Than Yourself” with author Steve Farber. Also we talk about the world’s greatest mentoring streak, and a bad writer gives good advice. The one and only Steve Farber makes his return visit to the show. Don’t forget to visit www.crankymiddlemanager.com and sign up for our newsletter and www.greatwebmeetings.com to help your team use web presentations more effectively. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the 187th episode of the show. Today we talk about the part of the job we all appreciated from our managers and seldom get to do for our folks…. mentoring and helping them become “greater than ourselves”. We dedicate this show to an amazing streak, Socrates to Plato to Aristotle to Alexander the Great and then it all comes to a screeching halt. 3:05 The quote of the week is from Edward Bulwer Lytton, godawful novelist but a smart guy. How are you inspiring your team to learn and excel??? 4:00 Welcome Steve Farber back to the show. (Hear his first interview here) His new book “Greater Than Yourself” is a good excuse to have him back.  Check out the website to see how fact and fiction blend, but the deal is that coaching is not nearly enough. Can we help people be greater than we are? Why don’t we spend more time on mentoring and coaching? Our job is to help people be better at whatever they do than we are. 8:10 The system is called GTY…. which is not GTD but it’s pretty darned good on its own. The system has three tenets: Expand yourself Give yourself Replicate yourself 10:30 What do we have that others want to surpass? When we tell ourselves that we aren’t worthy, it’s a convenient lie to relieve us of responsibility. This whole process starts with taking stock of your resources. What do you do better than most people…and be honest. 14:40 Your ability to grow and expand your knowledge is critical to helping others. The more resources you have, the greater your competitive advantage. The purpose of expanding your knowledge is to give it away. 17:43 “Replicate yourself”, does not mean creating clones and make everyone do things the way you do. Everyone should have a GTY project and they should have one and so on and so on. 20:07 You can watch Steve’s GTY project in real time on his website, which is very cool.  The beneficiary is Tommy Spaulding.  Pat Lencioni (hear his Cranky interview here)  and Matthew Kelly (his show is here) are part of this process as well. 24:30 How is this different than traditional mentoring? Mentoring has limitations built in since it’s a “program” or “system”. It’s also more than the Golden Rule. Don’t let the weasels get you down!! tag:odeo.com,2009-04-09,24430021 Thu, 09 Apr 2009 06:43:36 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, Leadership, hr, training, mentoring, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, Greater Than Yourself, Steve Farber http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25362706-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-show-186-Managing-Generation-Y-Bruce-Tulgan Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Bruce Tulgan, author of Not Everyone Gets a Trophy- How to Manage Generation Y. Also, dealing with a smartass kid as king and things ain’t that different than they ever were if the quote of the week is to be believed….and I do believe it. Bruce Tulgan, looking like he’s about 12. Oh I’m getting old in a hurry. Don’t forget about our Cranky Middle Manager book:  “125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels- Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks from the Cranky Middle Manager Show  ” Thanks to everyone who participated in our webinar.. we’ll be offering it again in June! Show Notes: 0:00 Welcome back to a safe haven brothers and sisters. We are going to talk about those darned kids…. so it’s only right we dedicate this to King Josiah, youngest king of Judah and nobody could tell him anything either. 2:13 The quote of the week is from Hesiod- and it’s nice to know that in 28... Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Bruce Tulgan, author of Not Everyone Gets a Trophy- How to Manage Generation Y. Also, dealing with a smartass kid as king and things ain’t that different than they ever were if the quote of the week is to be believed….and I do believe it. Bruce Tulgan, looking like he’s about 12. Oh I’m getting old in a hurry. Don’t forget about our Cranky Middle Manager book:  “125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels- Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks from the Cranky Middle Manager Show  ” Thanks to everyone who participated in our webinar.. we’ll be offering it again in June! Show Notes: 0:00 Welcome back to a safe haven brothers and sisters. We are going to talk about those darned kids…. so it’s only right we dedicate this to King Josiah, youngest king of Judah and nobody could tell him anything either. 2:13 The quote of the week is from Hesiod- and it’s nice to know that in 2800 years nobody’s gotten any better at understanding the next generation……Oh, and thank you for attending our webinar on  How to Create and Manage Remote Teams- we’ll be offering it again soon. 4:01 Welcome Bruce Tulgan. A lot of what we’ve heard about the new generation is that we need to be empathetic and basically treat them as strange alien creatures. According to him most of the so-called experts are just wrong, they don’t need a trophy just for showing up. How do we put this delicately, self-esteem is not this generation’s biggest problem. 8:04 If they’re driving you crazy, it’s kind of our fault and they frequently think their way is as valid as anyone else’s. They have a bit of a reality check coming. Oh and heaven help my daughter’s first boss. 9:30 What are some of the myths about these folks? One is that they’re not loyal. We have a bit of a discussion about what loyalty means. “Transactional Loyalty” sounds a bit like “Serial Monogamy” to me.  If they realize they can’t earn what they want and need they’re out of here. 13:23 Second myth- they won’t do the grunt work. They will, they just want to make an impact right away and make the world a better place. They just want to prove themselves. They won’t do it for vague promises, and they want credit for everything they do. It’s about teaching them how you win by teaching you how you keep score and set expectations. 19:12 There is a lot more conscious work involved in managing Gen Y than you’re used to. they are super high maintenance, but the rewards are worth it. Right? 21:00 The third myth- they don’t know much. They know how to get the answers you need. They’ve never known an unanswerable question. Oh and they can multitask better than you. Deal with it. Call it Multiple Focus if it makes you feel better. 23:20 We discuss “Little Emperor” syndrome. As parents we planted these land mines. Ever try to give feedback to one of these humans without crushing their souls? Don’t soft-pedal authority, don’t lie and say they’re doing better than they are, but you have to be very clear about the metrics. Don’t try sink-or-swim approaches either, they don’t do so well that way. 26:38 Who is the most effective employer of young people? Bruce uses the US Marine Corps as a model for guidance, direction, support and leadership. Resources: Rainmaker Thinking. Bruce has a video newsletter that’s kinda cool, check it out. Check out my newest book: 6  Weeks to a Great Webinar Don’t let the weasels get you down! Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Bruce Tulgan, author of Not Everyone Gets a Trophy- How to Manage Generation Y. Also, dealing with a smartass kid as king and things ain’t that different than they ever were if the quote of the week is to be believed….and I do believe it. Bruce Tulgan, looking like he’s about 12. Oh I’m getting old in a hurry. Don’t forget about our Cranky Middle Manager book:  “125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels- Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks from the Cranky Middle Manager Show  ” Thanks to everyone who participated in our webinar.. we’ll be offering it again in June! Show Notes: 0:00 Welcome back to a safe haven brothers and sisters. We are going to talk about those darned kids…. so it’s only right we dedicate this to King Josiah, youngest king of Judah and nobody could tell him anything either. 2:13 The quote of the week is from Hesiod- and it’s nice to know that in 2800 years nobody’s gotten any better at understanding the next generation……Oh, and thank you for attending our webinar on  How to Create and Manage Remote Teams- we’ll be offering it again soon. 4:01 Welcome Bruce Tulgan. A lot of what we’ve heard about the new generation is that we need to be empathetic and basically treat them as strange alien creatures. According to him most of the so-called experts are just wrong, they don’t need a trophy just for showing up. How do we put this delicately, self-esteem is not this generation’s biggest problem. 8:04 If they’re driving you crazy, it’s kind of our fault and they frequently think their way is as valid as anyone else’s. They have a bit of a reality check coming. Oh and heaven help my daughter’s first boss. 9:30 What are some of the myths about these folks? One is that they’re not loyal. We have a bit of a discussion about what loyalty means. “Transactional Loyalty” sounds a bit like “Serial Monogamy” to me.  If they realize they can’t earn what they want and need they’re out of here. 13:23 Second myth- they won’t do the grunt work. They will, they just want to make an impact right away and make the world a better place. They just want to prove themselves. They won’t do it for vague promises, and they want credit for everything they do. It’s about teaching them how you win by teaching you how you keep score and set expectations. 19:12 There is a lot more conscious work involved in managing Gen Y than you’re used to. they are super high maintenance, but the rewards are worth it. Right? 21:00 The third myth- they don’t know much. They know how to get the answers you need. They’ve never known an unanswerable question. Oh and they can multitask better than you. Deal with it. Call it Multiple Focus if it makes you feel better. 23:20 We discuss “Little Emperor” syndrome. As parents we planted these land mines. Ever try to give feedback to one of these humans without crushing their souls? Don’t soft-pedal authority, don’t lie and say they’re doing better than they are, but you have to be very clear about the metrics. Don’t try sink-or-swim approaches either, they don’t do so well that way. 26:38 Who is the most effective employer of young people? Bruce uses the US Marine Corps as a model for guidance, direction, support and leadership. Resources: Rainmaker Thinking. Bruce has a video newsletter that’s kinda cool, check it out. Check out my newest book: 6  Weeks to a Great Webinar Don’t let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-04-01,25362706 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 11:47:54 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, General, Leadership, hr, workplace, managing, generations, generation y, Cranky Middle Manager, Bruce Tulgan http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24392173-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-show-186-Managing-Generation-Y-Bruce-Tulgan Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Bruce Tulgan, author of Not Everyone Gets a Trophy- How to Manage Generation Y. Also, dealing with a smartass kid as king and things ain’t that different than they ever were if the quote of the week is to be believed….and I do believe it. Bruce Tulgan, looking like he’s about 12. Oh I’m getting old in a hurry. Don’t forget about our Cranky Middle Manager book:  “125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels- Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks from the Cranky Middle Manager Show  ” Thanks to everyone who participated in our webinar.. we’ll be offering it again in June! Show Notes: 0:00 Welcome back to a safe haven brothers and sisters. We are going to talk about those darned kids…. so it’s only right we dedicate this to King Josiah, youngest king of Judah and nobody could tell him anything either. 2:13 The quote of the week is from Hesiod- and it’s nice to know that in 28... Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Bruce Tulgan, author of Not Everyone Gets a Trophy- How to Manage Generation Y. Also, dealing with a smartass kid as king and things ain’t that different than they ever were if the quote of the week is to be believed….and I do believe it. Bruce Tulgan, looking like he’s about 12. Oh I’m getting old in a hurry. Don’t forget about our Cranky Middle Manager book:  “125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels- Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks from the Cranky Middle Manager Show  ” Thanks to everyone who participated in our webinar.. we’ll be offering it again in June! Show Notes: 0:00 Welcome back to a safe haven brothers and sisters. We are going to talk about those darned kids…. so it’s only right we dedicate this to King Josiah, youngest king of Judah and nobody could tell him anything either. 2:13 The quote of the week is from Hesiod- and it’s nice to know that in 2800 years nobody’s gotten any better at understanding the next generation……Oh, and thank you for attending our webinar on  How to Create and Manage Remote Teams- we’ll be offering it again soon. 4:01 Welcome Bruce Tulgan. A lot of what we’ve heard about the new generation is that we need to be empathetic and basically treat them as strange alien creatures. According to him most of the so-called experts are just wrong, they don’t need a trophy just for showing up. How do we put this delicately, self-esteem is not this generation’s biggest problem. 8:04 If they’re driving you crazy, it’s kind of our fault and they frequently think their way is as valid as anyone else’s. They have a bit of a reality check coming. Oh and heaven help my daughter’s first boss. 9:30 What are some of the myths about these folks? One is that they’re not loyal. We have a bit of a discussion about what loyalty means. “Transactional Loyalty” sounds a bit like “Serial Monogamy” to me.  If they realize they can’t earn what they want and need they’re out of here. 13:23 Second myth- they won’t do the grunt work. They will, they just want to make an impact right away and make the world a better place. They just want to prove themselves. They won’t do it for vague promises, and they want credit for everything they do. It’s about teaching them how you win by teaching you how you keep score and set expectations. 19:12 There is a lot more conscious work involved in managing Gen Y than you’re used to. they are super high maintenance, but the rewards are worth it. Right? 21:00 The third myth- they don’t know much. They know how to get the answers you need. They’ve never known an unanswerable question. Oh and they can multitask better than you. Deal with it. Call it Multiple Focus if it makes you feel better. 23:20 We discuss “Little Emperor” syndrome. As parents we planted these land mines. Ever try to give feedback to one of these humans without crushing their souls? Don’t soft-pedal authority, don’t lie and say they’re doing better than they are, but you have to be very clear about the metrics. Don’t try sink-or-swim approaches either, they don’t do so well that way. 26:38 Who is the most effective employer of young people? Bruce uses the US Marine Corps as a model for guidance, direction, support and leadership. Resources: Rainmaker Thinking. Bruce has a video newsletter that’s kinda cool, check it out. Check out my newest book: 6  Weeks to a Great Webinar Don’t let the weasels get you down! Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Bruce Tulgan, author of Not Everyone Gets a Trophy- How to Manage Generation Y. Also, dealing with a smartass kid as king and things ain’t that different than they ever were if the quote of the week is to be believed….and I do believe it. Bruce Tulgan, looking like he’s about 12. Oh I’m getting old in a hurry. Don’t forget about our Cranky Middle Manager book:  “125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels- Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks from the Cranky Middle Manager Show  ” Thanks to everyone who participated in our webinar.. we’ll be offering it again in June! Show Notes: 0:00 Welcome back to a safe haven brothers and sisters. We are going to talk about those darned kids…. so it’s only right we dedicate this to King Josiah, youngest king of Judah and nobody could tell him anything either. 2:13 The quote of the week is from Hesiod- and it’s nice to know that in 2800 years nobody’s gotten any better at understanding the next generation……Oh, and thank you for attending our webinar on  How to Create and Manage Remote Teams- we’ll be offering it again soon. 4:01 Welcome Bruce Tulgan. A lot of what we’ve heard about the new generation is that we need to be empathetic and basically treat them as strange alien creatures. According to him most of the so-called experts are just wrong, they don’t need a trophy just for showing up. How do we put this delicately, self-esteem is not this generation’s biggest problem. 8:04 If they’re driving you crazy, it’s kind of our fault and they frequently think their way is as valid as anyone else’s. They have a bit of a reality check coming. Oh and heaven help my daughter’s first boss. 9:30 What are some of the myths about these folks? One is that they’re not loyal. We have a bit of a discussion about what loyalty means. “Transactional Loyalty” sounds a bit like “Serial Monogamy” to me.  If they realize they can’t earn what they want and need they’re out of here. 13:23 Second myth- they won’t do the grunt work. They will, they just want to make an impact right away and make the world a better place. They just want to prove themselves. They won’t do it for vague promises, and they want credit for everything they do. It’s about teaching them how you win by teaching you how you keep score and set expectations. 19:12 There is a lot more conscious work involved in managing Gen Y than you’re used to. they are super high maintenance, but the rewards are worth it. Right? 21:00 The third myth- they don’t know much. They know how to get the answers you need. They’ve never known an unanswerable question. Oh and they can multitask better than you. Deal with it. Call it Multiple Focus if it makes you feel better. 23:20 We discuss “Little Emperor” syndrome. As parents we planted these land mines. Ever try to give feedback to one of these humans without crushing their souls? Don’t soft-pedal authority, don’t lie and say they’re doing better than they are, but you have to be very clear about the metrics. Don’t try sink-or-swim approaches either, they don’t do so well that way. 26:38 Who is the most effective employer of young people? Bruce uses the US Marine Corps as a model for guidance, direction, support and leadership. Resources: Rainmaker Thinking. Bruce has a video newsletter that’s kinda cool, check it out. Check out my newest book: 6  Weeks to a Great Webinar Don’t let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-04-01,24392173 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 10:47:54 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, General, Leadership, hr, workplace, managing, generations, generation y, Cranky Middle Manager, Bruce Tulgan http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25362707-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-185-Building-Trust-Remotely-with-John-Blackwell Today Wayne Turmel talk about building trust in remote teams with John Blackwell. Plus we learn it takes a lot of trust to swap camels for horses and there’s still time to take part in our webinar workshop. John Blackwell, international man of mystery Don’t forget our webinar workshop: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” For more information click the links below: For March 30th, 2009 Europe and North America click here For March 31st, India, Asia and Australia click here Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to show 185. Today we’re talking about building trust and connections with your remote team. Our poster child is Hapargus, takes a lot of trust to trade horses for camels, especially when your peers think you’re the enemy. 3:22 Another (and final) shameless plug for our webinar on How to Create and Manage Remote Teams. Check us out, the links are above. 4:00 The quote of the week is from Cardinal De Retz. If you can’t trust yourself, how are you ... Today Wayne Turmel talk about building trust in remote teams with John Blackwell. Plus we learn it takes a lot of trust to swap camels for horses and there’s still time to take part in our webinar workshop. John Blackwell, international man of mystery Don’t forget our webinar workshop: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” For more information click the links below: For March 30th, 2009 Europe and North America click here For March 31st, India, Asia and Australia click here Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to show 185. Today we’re talking about building trust and connections with your remote team. Our poster child is Hapargus, takes a lot of trust to trade horses for camels, especially when your peers think you’re the enemy. 3:22 Another (and final) shameless plug for our webinar on How to Create and Manage Remote Teams. Check us out, the links are above. 4:00 The quote of the week is from Cardinal De Retz. If you can’t trust yourself, how are you going to trust your team- and trust me they’re probably better at this than you are so let it go. 4:50 Welcome back John Blackwell. Okay, I apologize for the quality of the call, blame Skype and get off my back. (hear John’s other CMM interviews by clicking here and the second show here. The economy has only sped up our working remotely and virtually.Some good research here. We will be spending less than 5% of our time on the same project in the same place as the rest of our colleagues. 10:20 John and i disagree on the definition of remote and virtual team but that doesn’t make me right. In a perfect world, it’s all about incenting, inspiring and creating connections with people you don’t see very often if at all. It’s all about what he calls “trust-based workplaces”. Trust is composed of 3 components: The capacity to trust The perception of competence (yours and theirs) The perception of intentions 14:30 We say we trust our team, but do we manage them like we really do trust them? If you need to check in on them, you might be fundamentally insecure…… okay, so I’m fundamentally insecure. I confess. But don’t we sometimes have to check in without checking up on them? 19:20 How are companies helping build trust between team members who might not know each other as well as you know them. You’ve got to tap into social networking and other ways of sharing information. Those darned Gen Y kids do it better than most older folks. 23:20 How can we ensure that our intentions are clear and people are onboard with them? Do big companies get it or are they still preaching out of date concepts like “management by walking around” when it’s a long walk to Bangalore? Here are some of the mistakes companies make. 28:00 The obligatory Google management story but could YOU pass this test? Would you include your family on your 360 review? God forbid….. Check out John’s research library. Lots of good stuff here. Don’t forget our latest Cranky Book: 125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels, Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks From the Cranky Middle Manager Show not to mention our latest book available on Amazon: Today Wayne Turmel talk about building trust in remote teams with John Blackwell. Plus we learn it takes a lot of trust to swap camels for horses and there’s still time to take part in our webinar workshop. John Blackwell, international man of mystery Don’t forget our webinar workshop: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” For more information click the links below: For March 30th, 2009 Europe and North America click here For March 31st, India, Asia and Australia click here Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to show 185. Today we’re talking about building trust and connections with your remote team. Our poster child is Hapargus, takes a lot of trust to trade horses for camels, especially when your peers think you’re the enemy. 3:22 Another (and final) shameless plug for our webinar on How to Create and Manage Remote Teams. Check us out, the links are above. 4:00 The quote of the week is from Cardinal De Retz. If you can’t trust yourself, how are you going to trust your team- and trust me they’re probably better at this than you are so let it go. 4:50 Welcome back John Blackwell. Okay, I apologize for the quality of the call, blame Skype and get off my back. (hear John’s other CMM interviews by clicking here and the second show here. The economy has only sped up our working remotely and virtually.Some good research here. We will be spending less than 5% of our time on the same project in the same place as the rest of our colleagues. 10:20 John and i disagree on the definition of remote and virtual team but that doesn’t make me right. In a perfect world, it’s all about incenting, inspiring and creating connections with people you don’t see very often if at all. It’s all about what he calls “trust-based workplaces”. Trust is composed of 3 components: The capacity to trust The perception of competence (yours and theirs) The perception of intentions 14:30 We say we trust our team, but do we manage them like we really do trust them? If you need to check in on them, you might be fundamentally insecure…… okay, so I’m fundamentally insecure. I confess. But don’t we sometimes have to check in without checking up on them? 19:20 How are companies helping build trust between team members who might not know each other as well as you know them. You’ve got to tap into social networking and other ways of sharing information. Those darned Gen Y kids do it better than most older folks. 23:20 How can we ensure that our intentions are clear and people are onboard with them? Do big companies get it or are they still preaching out of date concepts like “management by walking around” when it’s a long walk to Bangalore? Here are some of the mistakes companies make. 28:00 The obligatory Google management story but could YOU pass this test? Would you include your family on your 360 review? God forbid….. Check out John’s research library. Lots of good stuff here. Don’t forget our latest Cranky Book: 125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels, Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks From the Cranky Middle Manager Show not to mention our latest book available on Amazon: tag:odeo.com,2009-03-25,25362707 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 14:55:39 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, Leadership, hr, management, training, manage, distance, Webinar, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, John Blackwell, remote teams http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24362100-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-185-Building-Trust-Remotely-with-John-Blackwell Today Wayne Turmel talk about building trust in remote teams with John Blackwell. Plus we learn it takes a lot of trust to swap camels for horses and there’s still time to take part in our webinar workshop. John Blackwell, international man of mystery Don’t forget our webinar workshop: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” For more information click the links below: For March 30th, 2009 Europe and North America click here For March 31st, India, Asia and Australia click here Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to show 185. Today we’re talking about building trust and connections with your remote team. Our poster child is Hapargus, takes a lot of trust to trade horses for camels, especially when your peers think you’re the enemy. 3:22 Another (and final) shameless plug for our webinar on How to Create and Manage Remote Teams. Check us out, the links are above. 4:00 The quote of the week is from Cardinal De Retz. If you can’t trust yourself, how are you ... Today Wayne Turmel talk about building trust in remote teams with John Blackwell. Plus we learn it takes a lot of trust to swap camels for horses and there’s still time to take part in our webinar workshop. John Blackwell, international man of mystery Don’t forget our webinar workshop: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” For more information click the links below: For March 30th, 2009 Europe and North America click here For March 31st, India, Asia and Australia click here Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to show 185. Today we’re talking about building trust and connections with your remote team. Our poster child is Hapargus, takes a lot of trust to trade horses for camels, especially when your peers think you’re the enemy. 3:22 Another (and final) shameless plug for our webinar on How to Create and Manage Remote Teams. Check us out, the links are above. 4:00 The quote of the week is from Cardinal De Retz. If you can’t trust yourself, how are you going to trust your team- and trust me they’re probably better at this than you are so let it go. 4:50 Welcome back John Blackwell. Okay, I apologize for the quality of the call, blame Skype and get off my back. (hear John’s other CMM interviews by clicking here and the second show here. The economy has only sped up our working remotely and virtually.Some good research here. We will be spending less than 5% of our time on the same project in the same place as the rest of our colleagues. 10:20 John and i disagree on the definition of remote and virtual team but that doesn’t make me right. In a perfect world, it’s all about incenting, inspiring and creating connections with people you don’t see very often if at all. It’s all about what he calls “trust-based workplaces”. Trust is composed of 3 components: The capacity to trust The perception of competence (yours and theirs) The perception of intentions 14:30 We say we trust our team, but do we manage them like we really do trust them? If you need to check in on them, you might be fundamentally insecure…… okay, so I’m fundamentally insecure. I confess. But don’t we sometimes have to check in without checking up on them? 19:20 How are companies helping build trust between team members who might not know each other as well as you know them. You’ve got to tap into social networking and other ways of sharing information. Those darned Gen Y kids do it better than most older folks. 23:20 How can we ensure that our intentions are clear and people are onboard with them? Do big companies get it or are they still preaching out of date concepts like “management by walking around” when it’s a long walk to Bangalore? Here are some of the mistakes companies make. 28:00 The obligatory Google management story but could YOU pass this test? Would you include your family on your 360 review? God forbid….. Check out John’s research library. Lots of good stuff here. Don’t forget our latest Cranky Book: 125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels, Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks From the Cranky Middle Manager Show not to mention our latest book available on Amazon: Today Wayne Turmel talk about building trust in remote teams with John Blackwell. Plus we learn it takes a lot of trust to swap camels for horses and there’s still time to take part in our webinar workshop. John Blackwell, international man of mystery Don’t forget our webinar workshop: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams” For more information click the links below: For March 30th, 2009 Europe and North America click here For March 31st, India, Asia and Australia click here Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to show 185. Today we’re talking about building trust and connections with your remote team. Our poster child is Hapargus, takes a lot of trust to trade horses for camels, especially when your peers think you’re the enemy. 3:22 Another (and final) shameless plug for our webinar on How to Create and Manage Remote Teams. Check us out, the links are above. 4:00 The quote of the week is from Cardinal De Retz. If you can’t trust yourself, how are you going to trust your team- and trust me they’re probably better at this than you are so let it go. 4:50 Welcome back John Blackwell. Okay, I apologize for the quality of the call, blame Skype and get off my back. (hear John’s other CMM interviews by clicking here and the second show here. The economy has only sped up our working remotely and virtually.Some good research here. We will be spending less than 5% of our time on the same project in the same place as the rest of our colleagues. 10:20 John and i disagree on the definition of remote and virtual team but that doesn’t make me right. In a perfect world, it’s all about incenting, inspiring and creating connections with people you don’t see very often if at all. It’s all about what he calls “trust-based workplaces”. Trust is composed of 3 components: The capacity to trust The perception of competence (yours and theirs) The perception of intentions 14:30 We say we trust our team, but do we manage them like we really do trust them? If you need to check in on them, you might be fundamentally insecure…… okay, so I’m fundamentally insecure. I confess. But don’t we sometimes have to check in without checking up on them? 19:20 How are companies helping build trust between team members who might not know each other as well as you know them. You’ve got to tap into social networking and other ways of sharing information. Those darned Gen Y kids do it better than most older folks. 23:20 How can we ensure that our intentions are clear and people are onboard with them? Do big companies get it or are they still preaching out of date concepts like “management by walking around” when it’s a long walk to Bangalore? Here are some of the mistakes companies make. 28:00 The obligatory Google management story but could YOU pass this test? Would you include your family on your 360 review? God forbid….. Check out John’s research library. Lots of good stuff here. Don’t forget our latest Cranky Book: 125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels, Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks From the Cranky Middle Manager Show not to mention our latest book available on Amazon: tag:odeo.com,2009-03-25,24362100 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:55:39 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, Leadership, hr, management, training, manage, distance, Webinar, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, John Blackwell, remote teams http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25362708-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-184-3-Laws-of-Performance-Steve-Zaffron Wayne Turmel discusses the 3 Laws of Performance with the book’s co-author Steve Zaffron. Also, a shameless plug and a dedication to the Children’s Crusade and other management disasters. Steve Zaffron, author of 3 Laws of Performance Don’t forget our webinar “How to Create and Manage a Remote Team” we’ll be doing it twice: March 30th For the UK and North America, click here to learn more and register March 31st For India, Asia and Austrlia click here to learn more and register. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Remember hands off is both the best way to manage AND avoid an HR writeup. This show is dedicated to Stephen of Cloyes, the brains (?) behind the Children’s Crusade. Yeah a mess, but no worse than most SAP implementations. 2:30 Don’t forget to help support the Podcast Network Pledge Drive to help keep us on the air and free. Oh, and the quote of the week is from Aristotle… if you have to have a habit, excellence is a g... Wayne Turmel discusses the 3 Laws of Performance with the book’s co-author Steve Zaffron. Also, a shameless plug and a dedication to the Children’s Crusade and other management disasters. Steve Zaffron, author of 3 Laws of Performance Don’t forget our webinar “How to Create and Manage a Remote Team” we’ll be doing it twice: March 30th For the UK and North America, click here to learn more and register March 31st For India, Asia and Austrlia click here to learn more and register. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Remember hands off is both the best way to manage AND avoid an HR writeup. This show is dedicated to Stephen of Cloyes, the brains (?) behind the Children’s Crusade. Yeah a mess, but no worse than most SAP implementations. 2:30 Don’t forget to help support the Podcast Network Pledge Drive to help keep us on the air and free. Oh, and the quote of the week is from Aristotle… if you have to have a habit, excellence is a good one to have. 3:00 Welcome to Steve Zaffron, one of the authors of The 3 Laws of Performance, Rewriting the Future of Your Organization And Your Life. Oh, those three laws are: How people perform correlates to how situations occur to them How a situation occurs arises in language Future based language transforms how situations occur to people 9:31 Sometimes resistance to change isn’t necessarily anti-change it’s not being involved. He tells a great story about a Japanese example. You can be the shogun in your own life. Cool line and I look great in a kimono. 12:00 Even in top secret engineering projects we can change how we talk and think. 16:35 What are some of the signs that things are occurring differently to different people? Complaining is a symptom. Leading is a conversation and guess what, you’re just the person to have it. 19:20 Management controls the flow of information. Remember what they know they’ll make up. How do you manage this when we’re all working remotely???? 24:48 What’s the difference between Future Based language and what normally happens. If it contains the words “we hope” it’s not going to make it. It stems from integrity and he gives us a tough definition. 28:30 Based on this, here’s the lesson. Very few performance problems come from people being bad at their jobs- it’s the human communication. Steve’s Resources The Vanto Group Don't let the weasels get you down! Wayne Turmel discusses the 3 Laws of Performance with the book’s co-author Steve Zaffron. Also, a shameless plug and a dedication to the Children’s Crusade and other management disasters. Steve Zaffron, author of 3 Laws of Performance Don’t forget our webinar “How to Create and Manage a Remote Team” we’ll be doing it twice: March 30th For the UK and North America, click here to learn more and register March 31st For India, Asia and Austrlia click here to learn more and register. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Remember hands off is both the best way to manage AND avoid an HR writeup. This show is dedicated to Stephen of Cloyes, the brains (?) behind the Children’s Crusade. Yeah a mess, but no worse than most SAP implementations. 2:30 Don’t forget to help support the Podcast Network Pledge Drive to help keep us on the air and free. Oh, and the quote of the week is from Aristotle… if you have to have a habit, excellence is a good one to have. 3:00 Welcome to Steve Zaffron, one of the authors of The 3 Laws of Performance, Rewriting the Future of Your Organization And Your Life. Oh, those three laws are: How people perform correlates to how situations occur to them How a situation occurs arises in language Future based language transforms how situations occur to people 9:31 Sometimes resistance to change isn’t necessarily anti-change it’s not being involved. He tells a great story about a Japanese example. You can be the shogun in your own life. Cool line and I look great in a kimono. 12:00 Even in top secret engineering projects we can change how we talk and think. 16:35 What are some of the signs that things are occurring differently to different people? Complaining is a symptom. Leading is a conversation and guess what, you’re just the person to have it. 19:20 Management controls the flow of information. Remember what they know they’ll make up. How do you manage this when we’re all working remotely???? 24:48 What’s the difference between Future Based language and what normally happens. If it contains the words “we hope” it’s not going to make it. It stems from integrity and he gives us a tough definition. 28:30 Based on this, here’s the lesson. Very few performance problems come from people being bad at their jobs- it’s the human communication. Steve’s Resources The Vanto Group Don't let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-03-18,25362708 Wed, 18 Mar 2009 13:20:11 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, audio, communication, performance, management, manager, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, steve Zaffron http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24324044-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-184-3-Laws-of-Performance-Steve-Zaffron Wayne Turmel discusses the 3 Laws of Performance with the book’s co-author Steve Zaffron. Also, a shameless plug and a dedication to the Children’s Crusade and other management disasters. Steve Zaffron, author of 3 Laws of Performance Don’t forget our webinar “How to Create and Manage a Remote Team” we’ll be doing it twice: March 30th For the UK and North America, click here to learn more and register March 31st For India, Asia and Austrlia click here to learn more and register. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Remember hands off is both the best way to manage AND avoid an HR writeup. This show is dedicated to Stephen of Cloyes, the brains (?) behind the Children’s Crusade. Yeah a mess, but no worse than most SAP implementations. 2:30 Don’t forget to help support the Podcast Network Pledge Drive to help keep us on the air and free. Oh, and the quote of the week is from Aristotle… if you have to have a habit, excellence is a g... Wayne Turmel discusses the 3 Laws of Performance with the book’s co-author Steve Zaffron. Also, a shameless plug and a dedication to the Children’s Crusade and other management disasters. Steve Zaffron, author of 3 Laws of Performance Don’t forget our webinar “How to Create and Manage a Remote Team” we’ll be doing it twice: March 30th For the UK and North America, click here to learn more and register March 31st For India, Asia and Austrlia click here to learn more and register. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Remember hands off is both the best way to manage AND avoid an HR writeup. This show is dedicated to Stephen of Cloyes, the brains (?) behind the Children’s Crusade. Yeah a mess, but no worse than most SAP implementations. 2:30 Don’t forget to help support the Podcast Network Pledge Drive to help keep us on the air and free. Oh, and the quote of the week is from Aristotle… if you have to have a habit, excellence is a good one to have. 3:00 Welcome to Steve Zaffron, one of the authors of The 3 Laws of Performance, Rewriting the Future of Your Organization And Your Life. Oh, those three laws are: How people perform correlates to how situations occur to them How a situation occurs arises in language Future based language transforms how situations occur to people 9:31 Sometimes resistance to change isn’t necessarily anti-change it’s not being involved. He tells a great story about a Japanese example. You can be the shogun in your own life. Cool line and I look great in a kimono. 12:00 Even in top secret engineering projects we can change how we talk and think. 16:35 What are some of the signs that things are occurring differently to different people? Complaining is a symptom. Leading is a conversation and guess what, you’re just the person to have it. 19:20 Management controls the flow of information. Remember what they know they’ll make up. How do you manage this when we’re all working remotely???? 24:48 What’s the difference between Future Based language and what normally happens. If it contains the words “we hope” it’s not going to make it. It stems from integrity and he gives us a tough definition. 28:30 Based on this, here’s the lesson. Very few performance problems come from people being bad at their jobs- it’s the human communication. Steve’s Resources The Vanto Group Don't let the weasels get you down! Wayne Turmel discusses the 3 Laws of Performance with the book’s co-author Steve Zaffron. Also, a shameless plug and a dedication to the Children’s Crusade and other management disasters. Steve Zaffron, author of 3 Laws of Performance Don’t forget our webinar “How to Create and Manage a Remote Team” we’ll be doing it twice: March 30th For the UK and North America, click here to learn more and register March 31st For India, Asia and Austrlia click here to learn more and register. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Remember hands off is both the best way to manage AND avoid an HR writeup. This show is dedicated to Stephen of Cloyes, the brains (?) behind the Children’s Crusade. Yeah a mess, but no worse than most SAP implementations. 2:30 Don’t forget to help support the Podcast Network Pledge Drive to help keep us on the air and free. Oh, and the quote of the week is from Aristotle… if you have to have a habit, excellence is a good one to have. 3:00 Welcome to Steve Zaffron, one of the authors of The 3 Laws of Performance, Rewriting the Future of Your Organization And Your Life. Oh, those three laws are: How people perform correlates to how situations occur to them How a situation occurs arises in language Future based language transforms how situations occur to people 9:31 Sometimes resistance to change isn’t necessarily anti-change it’s not being involved. He tells a great story about a Japanese example. You can be the shogun in your own life. Cool line and I look great in a kimono. 12:00 Even in top secret engineering projects we can change how we talk and think. 16:35 What are some of the signs that things are occurring differently to different people? Complaining is a symptom. Leading is a conversation and guess what, you’re just the person to have it. 19:20 Management controls the flow of information. Remember what they know they’ll make up. How do you manage this when we’re all working remotely???? 24:48 What’s the difference between Future Based language and what normally happens. If it contains the words “we hope” it’s not going to make it. It stems from integrity and he gives us a tough definition. 28:30 Based on this, here’s the lesson. Very few performance problems come from people being bad at their jobs- it’s the human communication. Steve’s Resources The Vanto Group Don't let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-03-18,24324044 Wed, 18 Mar 2009 12:20:11 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, audio, communication, performance, management, manager, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, steve Zaffron http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25362709-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-183-The-Organization-of-the-Future-Frances-Hesselbein Today, Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to one of the great voices in leadership studies, Frances Hesselbein about leadership, Peter Drucker and her new book, The Organization of the Future 2. Oh and sorry about the size of the file, don’t know what’s going on with that….. Don’t forget our upcoming webinar(s) “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”. Learn more by clicking on the link below: For North America, March 30th 9 AM Central, 14:00 GMT For India, Asia and Australia March 31st 3:30 AM GMT Show Notes 0:00 Our show is dedicated to Heinrick Schliemann, discoverer of the city of Troy. If you can cut through the myths, there is plenty about leadership that is eternal, just like the management guru biz. Today’s guest is a true classic in leadership studies. 3:27 how do you do what you know to be classic management in a technology world? Join our webinar workshop. Click the links beside Ms. Hasselbein’s picture. 4:21 The quote ... Today, Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to one of the great voices in leadership studies, Frances Hesselbein about leadership, Peter Drucker and her new book, The Organization of the Future 2. Oh and sorry about the size of the file, don’t know what’s going on with that….. Don’t forget our upcoming webinar(s) “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”. Learn more by clicking on the link below: For North America, March 30th 9 AM Central, 14:00 GMT For India, Asia and Australia March 31st 3:30 AM GMT Show Notes 0:00 Our show is dedicated to Heinrick Schliemann, discoverer of the city of Troy. If you can cut through the myths, there is plenty about leadership that is eternal, just like the management guru biz. Today’s guest is a true classic in leadership studies. 3:27 how do you do what you know to be classic management in a technology world? Join our webinar workshop. Click the links beside Ms. Hasselbein’s picture. 4:21 The quote of the week is from Lao Tzu.... why do we work so hard if we’re supposed to be invisible???? 5:00 Frances Hesselbein is the chairman and founding president of the Leader To Leader Institute for Nonprofit Management and a legend in leadership circles. You’ll have to listen carefully but it’s worth it, trust me. How did the institute start and what does it have to do with Drucker??? 8:31 Why does the “Social Sector” hold the best hope for us to learn about leadership? Mainly it has to do with being led by purpose and a sense of mission. Amen…. 12:11 Frances has received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her work, she tells us about that experience. 16:07 How has the study and thinking about leadership changed during her career? Because of how weird things are out there it’s more important than ever. It’s how to BE not how to DO. What does the think we need more of right now?  It’s living the mission and bring people together. 24:00 Over 27 books later and all her work with the military and she’s still vital and working. What does the Organization of the Future hold for us? Turns out the collaboration, partnerships and alliances are the key to survival. Check out the Leader to Leader Institute 30:00 This conversation really affected me. If you can’t stand the job of manager, you shouldn’t be doing it. Once you’ve made that decision, then we have to get on with it. How can we help? I want your feedback. What are we doing well, what should we be doing less of? Drop me a line, attend our webinars and tell your colleagues and friends. Don’t let the weasels get you down! Today, Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to one of the great voices in leadership studies, Frances Hesselbein about leadership, Peter Drucker and her new book, The Organization of the Future 2. Oh and sorry about the size of the file, don’t know what’s going on with that….. Don’t forget our upcoming webinar(s) “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”. Learn more by clicking on the link below: For North America, March 30th 9 AM Central, 14:00 GMT For India, Asia and Australia March 31st 3:30 AM GMT Show Notes 0:00 Our show is dedicated to Heinrick Schliemann, discoverer of the city of Troy. If you can cut through the myths, there is plenty about leadership that is eternal, just like the management guru biz. Today’s guest is a true classic in leadership studies. 3:27 how do you do what you know to be classic management in a technology world? Join our webinar workshop. Click the links beside Ms. Hasselbein’s picture. 4:21 The quote of the week is from Lao Tzu.... why do we work so hard if we’re supposed to be invisible???? 5:00 Frances Hesselbein is the chairman and founding president of the Leader To Leader Institute for Nonprofit Management and a legend in leadership circles. You’ll have to listen carefully but it’s worth it, trust me. How did the institute start and what does it have to do with Drucker??? 8:31 Why does the “Social Sector” hold the best hope for us to learn about leadership? Mainly it has to do with being led by purpose and a sense of mission. Amen…. 12:11 Frances has received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her work, she tells us about that experience. 16:07 How has the study and thinking about leadership changed during her career? Because of how weird things are out there it’s more important than ever. It’s how to BE not how to DO. What does the think we need more of right now?  It’s living the mission and bring people together. 24:00 Over 27 books later and all her work with the military and she’s still vital and working. What does the Organization of the Future hold for us? Turns out the collaboration, partnerships and alliances are the key to survival. Check out the Leader to Leader Institute 30:00 This conversation really affected me. If you can’t stand the job of manager, you shouldn’t be doing it. Once you’ve made that decision, then we have to get on with it. How can we help? I want your feedback. What are we doing well, what should we be doing less of? Drop me a line, attend our webinars and tell your colleagues and friends. Don’t let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-03-11,25362709 Wed, 11 Mar 2009 09:05:33 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, audio, Leadership, hr, management, training, organization, manager, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, Frances Hesselbein http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24288168-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-183-The-Organization-of-the-Future-Frances-Hesselbein Today, Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to one of the great voices in leadership studies, Frances Hesselbein about leadership, Peter Drucker and her new book, The Organization of the Future 2. Oh and sorry about the size of the file, don’t know what’s going on with that….. Don’t forget our upcoming webinar(s) “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”. Learn more by clicking on the link below: For North America, March 30th 9 AM Central, 14:00 GMT For India, Asia and Australia March 31st 3:30 AM GMT Show Notes 0:00 Our show is dedicated to Heinrick Schliemann, discoverer of the city of Troy. If you can cut through the myths, there is plenty about leadership that is eternal, just like the management guru biz. Today’s guest is a true classic in leadership studies. 3:27 how do you do what you know to be classic management in a technology world? Join our webinar workshop. Click the links beside Ms. Hasselbein’s picture. 4:21 The quote ... Today, Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to one of the great voices in leadership studies, Frances Hesselbein about leadership, Peter Drucker and her new book, The Organization of the Future 2. Oh and sorry about the size of the file, don’t know what’s going on with that….. Don’t forget our upcoming webinar(s) “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”. Learn more by clicking on the link below: For North America, March 30th 9 AM Central, 14:00 GMT For India, Asia and Australia March 31st 3:30 AM GMT Show Notes 0:00 Our show is dedicated to Heinrick Schliemann, discoverer of the city of Troy. If you can cut through the myths, there is plenty about leadership that is eternal, just like the management guru biz. Today’s guest is a true classic in leadership studies. 3:27 how do you do what you know to be classic management in a technology world? Join our webinar workshop. Click the links beside Ms. Hasselbein’s picture. 4:21 The quote of the week is from Lao Tzu.... why do we work so hard if we’re supposed to be invisible???? 5:00 Frances Hesselbein is the chairman and founding president of the Leader To Leader Institute for Nonprofit Management and a legend in leadership circles. You’ll have to listen carefully but it’s worth it, trust me. How did the institute start and what does it have to do with Drucker??? 8:31 Why does the “Social Sector” hold the best hope for us to learn about leadership? Mainly it has to do with being led by purpose and a sense of mission. Amen…. 12:11 Frances has received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her work, she tells us about that experience. 16:07 How has the study and thinking about leadership changed during her career? Because of how weird things are out there it’s more important than ever. It’s how to BE not how to DO. What does the think we need more of right now?  It’s living the mission and bring people together. 24:00 Over 27 books later and all her work with the military and she’s still vital and working. What does the Organization of the Future hold for us? Turns out the collaboration, partnerships and alliances are the key to survival. Check out the Leader to Leader Institute 30:00 This conversation really affected me. If you can’t stand the job of manager, you shouldn’t be doing it. Once you’ve made that decision, then we have to get on with it. How can we help? I want your feedback. What are we doing well, what should we be doing less of? Drop me a line, attend our webinars and tell your colleagues and friends. Don’t let the weasels get you down! Today, Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to one of the great voices in leadership studies, Frances Hesselbein about leadership, Peter Drucker and her new book, The Organization of the Future 2. Oh and sorry about the size of the file, don’t know what’s going on with that….. Don’t forget our upcoming webinar(s) “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”. Learn more by clicking on the link below: For North America, March 30th 9 AM Central, 14:00 GMT For India, Asia and Australia March 31st 3:30 AM GMT Show Notes 0:00 Our show is dedicated to Heinrick Schliemann, discoverer of the city of Troy. If you can cut through the myths, there is plenty about leadership that is eternal, just like the management guru biz. Today’s guest is a true classic in leadership studies. 3:27 how do you do what you know to be classic management in a technology world? Join our webinar workshop. Click the links beside Ms. Hasselbein’s picture. 4:21 The quote of the week is from Lao Tzu.... why do we work so hard if we’re supposed to be invisible???? 5:00 Frances Hesselbein is the chairman and founding president of the Leader To Leader Institute for Nonprofit Management and a legend in leadership circles. You’ll have to listen carefully but it’s worth it, trust me. How did the institute start and what does it have to do with Drucker??? 8:31 Why does the “Social Sector” hold the best hope for us to learn about leadership? Mainly it has to do with being led by purpose and a sense of mission. Amen…. 12:11 Frances has received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her work, she tells us about that experience. 16:07 How has the study and thinking about leadership changed during her career? Because of how weird things are out there it’s more important than ever. It’s how to BE not how to DO. What does the think we need more of right now?  It’s living the mission and bring people together. 24:00 Over 27 books later and all her work with the military and she’s still vital and working. What does the Organization of the Future hold for us? Turns out the collaboration, partnerships and alliances are the key to survival. Check out the Leader to Leader Institute 30:00 This conversation really affected me. If you can’t stand the job of manager, you shouldn’t be doing it. Once you’ve made that decision, then we have to get on with it. How can we help? I want your feedback. What are we doing well, what should we be doing less of? Drop me a line, attend our webinars and tell your colleagues and friends. Don’t let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-03-11,24288168 Wed, 11 Mar 2009 08:05:33 -0700 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, audio, Leadership, hr, management, training, organization, manager, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, Frances Hesselbein http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24240500-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-182-Human-Capital-with-Jon-Ingham Wayne Turmel talks to blogger and Human Capital expert Jon Ingham about why the term Human Capital shouldn’t cause an aneurysm. Also a French philosopher, a Persian King and a webinar he should have attended to help him rule his kingdom better. Jon Ingham of the Strategic Human Capital blog Join us for our webinar course: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”.  You’ll learn to assess and address your team’s relationships, communcation and task performance. If you’re in Europe and North America, learn more here. If you’re in India, Asia or Australia, click here Show Notes 0:00 No matter how you say it, welcome to the show. Today we finally tackle one of my least favorite terms, Human Capital with a very smart guy who uses it a lot, Jon Ingham. This episode is dedicated to Khosrow 1 of Persia... all the traits a manager should have….delegation, communication and the restraint to only kill the family members that really have it coming. ... Wayne Turmel talks to blogger and Human Capital expert Jon Ingham about why the term Human Capital shouldn’t cause an aneurysm. Also a French philosopher, a Persian King and a webinar he should have attended to help him rule his kingdom better. Jon Ingham of the Strategic Human Capital blog Join us for our webinar course: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”.  You’ll learn to assess and address your team’s relationships, communcation and task performance. If you’re in Europe and North America, learn more here. If you’re in India, Asia or Australia, click here Show Notes 0:00 No matter how you say it, welcome to the show. Today we finally tackle one of my least favorite terms, Human Capital with a very smart guy who uses it a lot, Jon Ingham. This episode is dedicated to Khosrow 1 of Persia... all the traits a manager should have….delegation, communication and the restraint to only kill the family members that really have it coming. Oh, and a shameless plug for our upcoming webinar course on How To Create and Manage a Remote Team. 4:03 The quote of the week is from my boy Michel de Montaigne . Poverty of mind…. open up your mental wallets and let us pour the smarts in, gang. 4:50 Jon doesn’t get out much if this is exciting for him but we’ll take it. Elephant in the room time: the term Human Capital makes me crazy. Why shouldn’t we hate it? Even Jon doesn’t use it in front of civilians. Basically, Human Capital is the OUTPUT people create from their work. 11:11 What’s the difference between organizations that look at human capital vs organizations that just use them as resources? HR tends to rely on best practices, HCM starts to lead organizations to more innovative solutions. 15:05 What does this all mean to us as managers? People management becomes even more critical- oh thanks a lot. 18:06 I go on a bit of a rant about how the manager’s job is getting tougher and no one seems to have it figured out. Is it easier to think differently in other countries where there isn’t an established way of doing things or is everyone flailing about equally? 25:41 Jon has his own international podcast on BlogTalk radio. Listen to Talking HR here Other Resources Don’t let the weasels get you down! Wayne Turmel talks to blogger and Human Capital expert Jon Ingham about why the term Human Capital shouldn’t cause an aneurysm. Also a French philosopher, a Persian King and a webinar he should have attended to help him rule his kingdom better. Jon Ingham of the Strategic Human Capital blog Join us for our webinar course: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”.  You’ll learn to assess and address your team’s relationships, communcation and task performance. If you’re in Europe and North America, learn more here. If you’re in India, Asia or Australia, click here Show Notes 0:00 No matter how you say it, welcome to the show. Today we finally tackle one of my least favorite terms, Human Capital with a very smart guy who uses it a lot, Jon Ingham. This episode is dedicated to Khosrow 1 of Persia... all the traits a manager should have….delegation, communication and the restraint to only kill the family members that really have it coming. Oh, and a shameless plug for our upcoming webinar course on How To Create and Manage a Remote Team. 4:03 The quote of the week is from my boy Michel de Montaigne . Poverty of mind…. open up your mental wallets and let us pour the smarts in, gang. 4:50 Jon doesn’t get out much if this is exciting for him but we’ll take it. Elephant in the room time: the term Human Capital makes me crazy. Why shouldn’t we hate it? Even Jon doesn’t use it in front of civilians. Basically, Human Capital is the OUTPUT people create from their work. 11:11 What’s the difference between organizations that look at human capital vs organizations that just use them as resources? HR tends to rely on best practices, HCM starts to lead organizations to more innovative solutions. 15:05 What does this all mean to us as managers? People management becomes even more critical- oh thanks a lot. 18:06 I go on a bit of a rant about how the manager’s job is getting tougher and no one seems to have it figured out. Is it easier to think differently in other countries where there isn’t an established way of doing things or is everyone flailing about equally? 25:41 Jon has his own international podcast on BlogTalk radio. Listen to Talking HR here Other Resources Don’t let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-03-03,24240500 Tue, 03 Mar 2009 09:54:54 -0800 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, hr, strategy, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, Human Capital, Jon Ingham http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24185547-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-181-Managing-Remote-Teams-Terence-Brake Today Wayne Turmel talks about managing remote teams with author Terence Brake. Middle managers today have to manage people who can be working anywhere in the world and there are tools and techniques available to help. We enlist Terry’s help, talk about a Frenchman who helped bridge the distance and introduce the first Cranky Middle Manager webinar training course on ….managing remote teams. Terry Brake of TMA World joins us today. He’s the author of “Where in the World is My Team” Join us for our first Cranky Middle Manager training webinar: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”  There are sessions for North America/Europe AND Asia/Pacific. Click here to learn more. Show Notes: 0:00 Welcome to the 181st edition of the show. Today we talk about managing virtual teams and bridging gaps of all kinds with author Terence Brake. We dedicate this episode to the first, but not the last, manager who tried to lose himself in the Hotel’s water... Today Wayne Turmel talks about managing remote teams with author Terence Brake. Middle managers today have to manage people who can be working anywhere in the world and there are tools and techniques available to help. We enlist Terry’s help, talk about a Frenchman who helped bridge the distance and introduce the first Cranky Middle Manager webinar training course on ….managing remote teams. Terry Brake of TMA World joins us today. He’s the author of “Where in the World is My Team” Join us for our first Cranky Middle Manager training webinar: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”  There are sessions for North America/Europe AND Asia/Pacific. Click here to learn more. Show Notes: 0:00 Welcome to the 181st edition of the show. Today we talk about managing virtual teams and bridging gaps of all kinds with author Terence Brake. We dedicate this episode to the first, but not the last, manager who tried to lose himself in the Hotel’s watering hole: Claude Chappe. 2:45 Big announcement: The first actual training course webinar on creating and managing remote teams. This one will require budget approval but well worth paying attention to. You asked for courses that were available online, were timed for various parts of the planet and were affordable. You speak and my fingers have wings…… 5:05 The quote of the week is from another Frenchman, Francois la Rochefoucauld. If people don’t trust you it doesn’t matter if you mean well. How much tougher is it when people are on the other side of the world and can’t see the cute pictures in your cubicle to know you’re a good person. 6:00 We are talking to Terry Brake, author of “Where in the World is My Team-Making a success of Your Virtual Global Workplace” You can buy it here…and probably should. I really enjoyed it. 9:00 Why is managing virtually different than managing on-site?  We need to pay attention to the environment we work in. It’s more than just “not being allowed to travel”. There are opportunities here. The 6 Cs of managing virtual teams: Cooperation Convergence Coordination Capability Communication Cultural Intelligence 14:45 Getting everyone on the same page is critical….what are some of the practical things a manager can do to get everyone heading in the same direction? There is a leadership task here… and things need to be explicit. 17:15 Little things like sharing the pain of time zones can go a long way to building trust and respect. We also need to balance the mix of technologies. The darned French, apparently, don’t care for email. 22:00 What’s the difference between stereotype and observation when working between cultures? Why does it matter? A great story about French and Japanese managers ensues. 26:27 If you are putting together a remote team, what are the things you need to do right away to get off on the right foot? Get to know your team as people. Move slower into tasks AFTER you get to know each other. Terry’s Resources His blog…. Virtual Leadership blog Uniting the Virtual Workforce Don’t let the weasels get you down! Today Wayne Turmel talks about managing remote teams with author Terence Brake. Middle managers today have to manage people who can be working anywhere in the world and there are tools and techniques available to help. We enlist Terry’s help, talk about a Frenchman who helped bridge the distance and introduce the first Cranky Middle Manager webinar training course on ….managing remote teams. Terry Brake of TMA World joins us today. He’s the author of “Where in the World is My Team” Join us for our first Cranky Middle Manager training webinar: “How to Create and Manage Remote Teams”  There are sessions for North America/Europe AND Asia/Pacific. Click here to learn more. Show Notes: 0:00 Welcome to the 181st edition of the show. Today we talk about managing virtual teams and bridging gaps of all kinds with author Terence Brake. We dedicate this episode to the first, but not the last, manager who tried to lose himself in the Hotel’s watering hole: Claude Chappe. 2:45 Big announcement: The first actual training course webinar on creating and managing remote teams. This one will require budget approval but well worth paying attention to. You asked for courses that were available online, were timed for various parts of the planet and were affordable. You speak and my fingers have wings…… 5:05 The quote of the week is from another Frenchman, Francois la Rochefoucauld. If people don’t trust you it doesn’t matter if you mean well. How much tougher is it when people are on the other side of the world and can’t see the cute pictures in your cubicle to know you’re a good person. 6:00 We are talking to Terry Brake, author of “Where in the World is My Team-Making a success of Your Virtual Global Workplace” You can buy it here…and probably should. I really enjoyed it. 9:00 Why is managing virtually different than managing on-site?  We need to pay attention to the environment we work in. It’s more than just “not being allowed to travel”. There are opportunities here. The 6 Cs of managing virtual teams: Cooperation Convergence Coordination Capability Communication Cultural Intelligence 14:45 Getting everyone on the same page is critical….what are some of the practical things a manager can do to get everyone heading in the same direction? There is a leadership task here… and things need to be explicit. 17:15 Little things like sharing the pain of time zones can go a long way to building trust and respect. We also need to balance the mix of technologies. The darned French, apparently, don’t care for email. 22:00 What’s the difference between stereotype and observation when working between cultures? Why does it matter? A great story about French and Japanese managers ensues. 26:27 If you are putting together a remote team, what are the things you need to do right away to get off on the right foot? Get to know your team as people. Move slower into tasks AFTER you get to know each other. Terry’s Resources His blog…. Virtual Leadership blog Uniting the Virtual Workforce Don’t let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-02-24,24185547 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 04:01:49 -0800 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, hr, training, virtual, manager, teams, Webinar, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, Terence Brake http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24111298-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-180-Succession-with-Marshall-Goldsmith Today Wayne Turmel talks to Marshall Goldsmith about his new book “Succession: Are You Ready?”. We also look at Philip V of Spain on successions gone wrong and webinars, webinars, webinars. Marshall Goldsmith makes his 3rd appearance on the show. Don’t forget to register for our FREE Webinar” Managing Remote Teams, Using Webmeetings to Keep Them Engaged. SHOW NOTES: 0:00 Today we mark Marshall Goldsmith’s third appearance on the show to talk about succession, which brings us to our dedication- Philip V of Spain. When your taking the new job sparks the Spanish War of Succession, you know someone didn’t plan very well. 2:43 Lots of learning opportunities coming  up. Of course there’s our FREE webinar, but starting next show you’ll hear about “How To Create and Manage a Remote Team”- a webinar course on, well, the tools and techniques necessary to manage a remote team. Watch this site for details or drop me a line to learn mor... Today Wayne Turmel talks to Marshall Goldsmith about his new book “Succession: Are You Ready?”. We also look at Philip V of Spain on successions gone wrong and webinars, webinars, webinars. Marshall Goldsmith makes his 3rd appearance on the show. Don’t forget to register for our FREE Webinar” Managing Remote Teams, Using Webmeetings to Keep Them Engaged. SHOW NOTES: 0:00 Today we mark Marshall Goldsmith’s third appearance on the show to talk about succession, which brings us to our dedication- Philip V of Spain. When your taking the new job sparks the Spanish War of Succession, you know someone didn’t plan very well. 2:43 Lots of learning opportunities coming  up. Of course there’s our FREE webinar, but starting next show you’ll hear about “How To Create and Manage a Remote Team”- a webinar course on, well, the tools and techniques necessary to manage a remote team. Watch this site for details or drop me a line to learn more. And yes, there will be an Asia/Pacific-friendly schedule. 4:27 The quote of the week is from Lord Chesterfield, although it could as easily be David Allen. 5:20 Welcome Marshall Goldsmith back to the show. (You can hear his other interviews here and here). Why should managers who are just trying to keep their jobs think about succession planning? It’s important for you AND your team. We first talk about those about to retire. There are 3 thigns you need to think about: Running the business Choosing your successor What are you going to do with the rest of your life? 12:00 Marshall talks about the mistakes people make when they retire. Not as glamorous as it sounds, to be sure. 16:11 What about those of us not retiring? Don’t leave til you have somewhere to go.  The best boss you ever had took time to talk about your career and learn about you. Why aren’t we doing that for our teams? The one-on-one is crucial. Marshall gives us a very specific recipe for a successful coaching conversation. Where are we going? (as a business) Where are YOU going? (the other person) As a manager, here’s what I see you doing well. “What do YOU think you’re doing well?” Suggestions for improvement. Ask them:  “If you were your coach, what suggestions would you have for you?” How can I, as your manager, help? What suggestions might you have for me as your manager? You can find out more at the Marshall Goldsmith Library 23:00 What is the role of the mentee in all of this? It’s not easy being the chosen one. 25:20 Strong medicine alert: if you don’t promote yourself no one will do it for you.  Deal with it. Marshall’s Resources: Frances Hesselbein (who just happens to be his co-author on The Organization of the Future 2 and I’m still on her to be on the show). Jim Kouzes (hear our 2 conversations with Jim here and here) www.realclearmarkets.com Don’t let the weasels get you down! Today Wayne Turmel talks to Marshall Goldsmith about his new book “Succession: Are You Ready?”. We also look at Philip V of Spain on successions gone wrong and webinars, webinars, webinars. Marshall Goldsmith makes his 3rd appearance on the show. Don’t forget to register for our FREE Webinar” Managing Remote Teams, Using Webmeetings to Keep Them Engaged. SHOW NOTES: 0:00 Today we mark Marshall Goldsmith’s third appearance on the show to talk about succession, which brings us to our dedication- Philip V of Spain. When your taking the new job sparks the Spanish War of Succession, you know someone didn’t plan very well. 2:43 Lots of learning opportunities coming  up. Of course there’s our FREE webinar, but starting next show you’ll hear about “How To Create and Manage a Remote Team”- a webinar course on, well, the tools and techniques necessary to manage a remote team. Watch this site for details or drop me a line to learn more. And yes, there will be an Asia/Pacific-friendly schedule. 4:27 The quote of the week is from Lord Chesterfield, although it could as easily be David Allen. 5:20 Welcome Marshall Goldsmith back to the show. (You can hear his other interviews here and here). Why should managers who are just trying to keep their jobs think about succession planning? It’s important for you AND your team. We first talk about those about to retire. There are 3 thigns you need to think about: Running the business Choosing your successor What are you going to do with the rest of your life? 12:00 Marshall talks about the mistakes people make when they retire. Not as glamorous as it sounds, to be sure. 16:11 What about those of us not retiring? Don’t leave til you have somewhere to go.  The best boss you ever had took time to talk about your career and learn about you. Why aren’t we doing that for our teams? The one-on-one is crucial. Marshall gives us a very specific recipe for a successful coaching conversation. Where are we going? (as a business) Where are YOU going? (the other person) As a manager, here’s what I see you doing well. “What do YOU think you’re doing well?” Suggestions for improvement. Ask them:  “If you were your coach, what suggestions would you have for you?” How can I, as your manager, help? What suggestions might you have for me as your manager? You can find out more at the Marshall Goldsmith Library 23:00 What is the role of the mentee in all of this? It’s not easy being the chosen one. 25:20 Strong medicine alert: if you don’t promote yourself no one will do it for you.  Deal with it. Marshall’s Resources: Frances Hesselbein (who just happens to be his co-author on The Organization of the Future 2 and I’m still on her to be on the show). Jim Kouzes (hear our 2 conversations with Jim here and here) www.realclearmarkets.com Don’t let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-02-16,24111298 Mon, 16 Feb 2009 06:51:24 -0800 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, General http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24054077-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-179-Agile-Management-with-Chris-Sims Today, Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Chris Sims of the Technical Management Institute about Agile software development and managing in an Agile environment. Oh, and we look at Gaius Marius who helped the Roman army reorganize and talk about an upcoming webinar for managers with remote teams. Don’t forget that we have an upcoming FREE webinar: “Managing Remote Teams- Using Webmeetings To Keep Them  Engaged”. click here for more details. If you’re interested in the more in-depth version, at a reasonable price, drop me a line and get more details before anyone else. Chris Sims and friends Show Notes 0:00 Today we talk about Agile project management. Remember that Project Management is one of our 4 Disciplines of Highly Effective, Leadership Exhibiting, Project Nailing, Cheese Moving Managers. He was also my partner when we piloted a recent training class. This episode is dedicated to Gaius Marius reorganization consultant to the Roman Army. 3:50 Do... Today, Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Chris Sims of the Technical Management Institute about Agile software development and managing in an Agile environment. Oh, and we look at Gaius Marius who helped the Roman army reorganize and talk about an upcoming webinar for managers with remote teams. Don’t forget that we have an upcoming FREE webinar: “Managing Remote Teams- Using Webmeetings To Keep Them  Engaged”. click here for more details. If you’re interested in the more in-depth version, at a reasonable price, drop me a line and get more details before anyone else. Chris Sims and friends Show Notes 0:00 Today we talk about Agile project management. Remember that Project Management is one of our 4 Disciplines of Highly Effective, Leadership Exhibiting, Project Nailing, Cheese Moving Managers. He was also my partner when we piloted a recent training class. This episode is dedicated to Gaius Marius reorganization consultant to the Roman Army. 3:50 Don’t forget our FREE webinar on February 26th and look for an upcoming webinar training program on managing virtual teams. If you’re interested in this course drop me a line. Stay tuned for more details. 4:15 The quote of the week is from the Kabbalah (supposedly)… growth comes from reorganization. Of course my former employers would tell you, so does bankruptcy but that’s no longer my problem. 5:00 Welcome my boy Chris Sims, owner of The Technical Management Institute. If you’re in Silicon Valley and want training for your geeks, he’s the man. He explains, in small words, what Agile Software Management is all about. It really tackles some of the assumptions about traditional project management. 10:03 Do you have to be a genius to be an Agile manager? It’s all about empowering the team. 12:25 Why is it that the traits we admire most in the managers we’ve had are so hard for us to live up to in the current environment, especially Agile? Getting to know and develop your people is critical but so many new managers can’t (or won’t block) out the time for those activities. How much time are you giving to developing your team? Being a great individual contributor is sometimes a barrier to success. 17:33 One on ones and dedicated time for each member of your team is critical but so many managers are resistant to blocking out time.Chris is more selfless than I am… but self preservation is important. 21:28 Chris and I share a show-biz background, so like a lot of us he learned management on the streets. Hear about his journey. 25:00 Chris and I talk about our “Management 2.0 Becoming the Kind of Leader You’d Follow” course and what we learned from our participants. God, I love training….. Chris’ Resources Esther Derby and Diana Larsen: Agile Retrospectives- Making Good Teams Great Inside Steve’s Brain and of course The Technical Management Institute training programs Don't let the weasels get you down Today, Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Chris Sims of the Technical Management Institute about Agile software development and managing in an Agile environment. Oh, and we look at Gaius Marius who helped the Roman army reorganize and talk about an upcoming webinar for managers with remote teams. Don’t forget that we have an upcoming FREE webinar: “Managing Remote Teams- Using Webmeetings To Keep Them  Engaged”. click here for more details. If you’re interested in the more in-depth version, at a reasonable price, drop me a line and get more details before anyone else. Chris Sims and friends Show Notes 0:00 Today we talk about Agile project management. Remember that Project Management is one of our 4 Disciplines of Highly Effective, Leadership Exhibiting, Project Nailing, Cheese Moving Managers. He was also my partner when we piloted a recent training class. This episode is dedicated to Gaius Marius reorganization consultant to the Roman Army. 3:50 Don’t forget our FREE webinar on February 26th and look for an upcoming webinar training program on managing virtual teams. If you’re interested in this course drop me a line. Stay tuned for more details. 4:15 The quote of the week is from the Kabbalah (supposedly)… growth comes from reorganization. Of course my former employers would tell you, so does bankruptcy but that’s no longer my problem. 5:00 Welcome my boy Chris Sims, owner of The Technical Management Institute. If you’re in Silicon Valley and want training for your geeks, he’s the man. He explains, in small words, what Agile Software Management is all about. It really tackles some of the assumptions about traditional project management. 10:03 Do you have to be a genius to be an Agile manager? It’s all about empowering the team. 12:25 Why is it that the traits we admire most in the managers we’ve had are so hard for us to live up to in the current environment, especially Agile? Getting to know and develop your people is critical but so many new managers can’t (or won’t block) out the time for those activities. How much time are you giving to developing your team? Being a great individual contributor is sometimes a barrier to success. 17:33 One on ones and dedicated time for each member of your team is critical but so many managers are resistant to blocking out time.Chris is more selfless than I am… but self preservation is important. 21:28 Chris and I share a show-biz background, so like a lot of us he learned management on the streets. Hear about his journey. 25:00 Chris and I talk about our “Management 2.0 Becoming the Kind of Leader You’d Follow” course and what we learned from our participants. God, I love training….. Chris’ Resources Esther Derby and Diana Larsen: Agile Retrospectives- Making Good Teams Great Inside Steve’s Brain and of course The Technical Management Institute training programs Don't let the weasels get you down tag:odeo.com,2009-02-09,24054077 Mon, 09 Feb 2009 08:24:36 -0800 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, Software, management, agile, training, manager, teams, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, Chris Sims, technical management institute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24014764-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-178-Inside-Drucker%E2%80%99s-Brain-Jeffrey-Krames Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Jeffrey Krames about his book Inside Drucker’s Brain. Peter Drucker helped turn management into a discipline… and this may be the most important Cranky show of the year. Also we take a look at an Arab historian, because that’s how we roll. Oh, and there’s a cranky webinar coming up on February 26th… Jeffrey Krames takes us “Inside Drucker’s Brain”.  This takes you inside mine: Show Notes 0:00 This is maybe the most important show we’ve done in ages. Why? Because you have to know where you came from in order to understand why things are what they are. Whether you’re a standup comic or a management geek. That’s why this show is dedicated to Ibn Abddel-Hakem. How did your company get where it is???? 3:46 Join us for a free Cranky Middle Manager Webinar- “Managing Virtual Teams- Using Webmeetings to Keep Them Engaged” you’ll find the time well spent. 4:24 The q... Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Jeffrey Krames about his book Inside Drucker’s Brain. Peter Drucker helped turn management into a discipline… and this may be the most important Cranky show of the year. Also we take a look at an Arab historian, because that’s how we roll. Oh, and there’s a cranky webinar coming up on February 26th… Jeffrey Krames takes us “Inside Drucker’s Brain”.  This takes you inside mine: Show Notes 0:00 This is maybe the most important show we’ve done in ages. Why? Because you have to know where you came from in order to understand why things are what they are. Whether you’re a standup comic or a management geek. That’s why this show is dedicated to Ibn Abddel-Hakem. How did your company get where it is???? 3:46 Join us for a free Cranky Middle Manager Webinar- “Managing Virtual Teams- Using Webmeetings to Keep Them Engaged” you’ll find the time well spent. 4:24 The quote of the week, of course, is from Peter Drucker. (It helps to imagine it said with a thick Austrian accent). 5:00 Management wouldn’t be management without Peter Drucker. Management as a business discipline didn’t exist until after the Second World War. The first modern management  book: The Concept of the Corporation…. save yourself the trouble…. 8:00 The building of the pyramids was the greatest management feat ever- so what do  you mean management didn’t exist.? There was no literature on it until Drucker started to put it together. HP and GE are just two companies that really used his work to put their strategy together, but not at first. No one wanted to talk about management. 12:08 What was it about Drucker’s work that was so new? Really, it was the very idea of “management strategy”….but strategy was for war and politics. Most of what we think of as “strategic management” or “management by objectives” is pure Drucker. Remind me to circle back with Jeffrey and find out how HIS review went…. Jack Welch, Bill Gates and Andy Grove are all devotees. 16:23 The notion that “knowledge workers” are different than assembly line workers shouldn’t have been a surprise, but Drucker was the first to use the term. The idea that we can learn from education rather than apprenticeship was (believe it or not) radical. 19:43 Austrian accent aside, his work was really focused on the people side of business, as opposed to Skinner, Mayo and  and their ilk. He understood the decentralized workforce and knew if you empower people, they will do a better job. 22:30 Drucker was no fan of computers (The computer is a moron) but he understood and came to embrace IT….heavy on the “I”, light on the “T”. He was all about getting the right information into the hands of managers so they can make good decisions. 26:00 Here’s what managers need to know… Drucker was no fan of academic business learning, but he loved training and personal development. When you realize how much we take for granted that he was the first to say, it’s amazing. He was ahead of Marcus Buckingham and “Strengths” by about 30 years. 32:00 How often do I tell you to go out and buy a book? Well Inside Drucker’s Brain is one, the other is from Todd and Jack at 800 CEO Read’s “100 Best Business Books of All Time”. (Hear their interview here) You can click on the link and buy them: You can read more in Jeffrey’s Blog as well. Don’t let the weasels get you down!!!! Cranky Middle Manager Wayne Turmel talks to Jeffrey Krames about his book Inside Drucker’s Brain. Peter Drucker helped turn management into a discipline… and this may be the most important Cranky show of the year. Also we take a look at an Arab historian, because that’s how we roll. Oh, and there’s a cranky webinar coming up on February 26th… Jeffrey Krames takes us “Inside Drucker’s Brain”.  This takes you inside mine: Show Notes 0:00 This is maybe the most important show we’ve done in ages. Why? Because you have to know where you came from in order to understand why things are what they are. Whether you’re a standup comic or a management geek. That’s why this show is dedicated to Ibn Abddel-Hakem. How did your company get where it is???? 3:46 Join us for a free Cranky Middle Manager Webinar- “Managing Virtual Teams- Using Webmeetings to Keep Them Engaged” you’ll find the time well spent. 4:24 The quote of the week, of course, is from Peter Drucker. (It helps to imagine it said with a thick Austrian accent). 5:00 Management wouldn’t be management without Peter Drucker. Management as a business discipline didn’t exist until after the Second World War. The first modern management  book: The Concept of the Corporation…. save yourself the trouble…. 8:00 The building of the pyramids was the greatest management feat ever- so what do  you mean management didn’t exist.? There was no literature on it until Drucker started to put it together. HP and GE are just two companies that really used his work to put their strategy together, but not at first. No one wanted to talk about management. 12:08 What was it about Drucker’s work that was so new? Really, it was the very idea of “management strategy”….but strategy was for war and politics. Most of what we think of as “strategic management” or “management by objectives” is pure Drucker. Remind me to circle back with Jeffrey and find out how HIS review went…. Jack Welch, Bill Gates and Andy Grove are all devotees. 16:23 The notion that “knowledge workers” are different than assembly line workers shouldn’t have been a surprise, but Drucker was the first to use the term. The idea that we can learn from education rather than apprenticeship was (believe it or not) radical. 19:43 Austrian accent aside, his work was really focused on the people side of business, as opposed to Skinner, Mayo and  and their ilk. He understood the decentralized workforce and knew if you empower people, they will do a better job. 22:30 Drucker was no fan of computers (The computer is a moron) but he understood and came to embrace IT….heavy on the “I”, light on the “T”. He was all about getting the right information into the hands of managers so they can make good decisions. 26:00 Here’s what managers need to know… Drucker was no fan of academic business learning, but he loved training and personal development. When you realize how much we take for granted that he was the first to say, it’s amazing. He was ahead of Marcus Buckingham and “Strengths” by about 30 years. 32:00 How often do I tell you to go out and buy a book? Well Inside Drucker’s Brain is one, the other is from Todd and Jack at 800 CEO Read’s “100 Best Business Books of All Time”. (Hear their interview here) You can click on the link and buy them: You can read more in Jeffrey’s Blog as well. Don’t let the weasels get you down!!!! tag:odeo.com,2009-02-02,24014764 Mon, 02 Feb 2009 07:50:28 -0800 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, History, theory, manager, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, management manager, Inside Drucker's Brain, Krames, Peter Drucker http://www.odeo.com/episodes/23949658-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-177-The-Myth-of-Multitasking-Dave-Crenshaw Wayne Turmel takes on multi-tasking middle managers, among other things, with Dave Crenshaw, author of The Myth of Multitasking- How “Doing It All” Gets Nothing Done. Also, is managing hermits an oxymoron? Oh, and an engineer talks about concentration. Dave Crenshaw- how does someone who does everything he does decry multitasking????? Don’t forget, if you want tools, templates and advice to run better meetings, order the ebook “Meet Like You Mean It- The Cranky Middle Manager’s Guide to Productive and Painless Meetings”. Only $7.99 Also there’s a FREE Cranky Middle Manager Webinar on February 26th, 2009 at 1 PM Eastern Time (US), brought to you in cooperation with Dimdim. Register here and get a free copy of my white paper “Team Communication and Training in the Workplace Diaspora” . Show Notes- 0:00 Welcome to the show. This episode is dedicated to Macarius of Egypt. We’re not suggesting you become a hermit, but he was on ... Wayne Turmel takes on multi-tasking middle managers, among other things, with Dave Crenshaw, author of The Myth of Multitasking- How “Doing It All” Gets Nothing Done. Also, is managing hermits an oxymoron? Oh, and an engineer talks about concentration. Dave Crenshaw- how does someone who does everything he does decry multitasking????? Don’t forget, if you want tools, templates and advice to run better meetings, order the ebook “Meet Like You Mean It- The Cranky Middle Manager’s Guide to Productive and Painless Meetings”. Only $7.99 Also there’s a FREE Cranky Middle Manager Webinar on February 26th, 2009 at 1 PM Eastern Time (US), brought to you in cooperation with Dimdim. Register here and get a free copy of my white paper “Team Communication and Training in the Workplace Diaspora” . Show Notes- 0:00 Welcome to the show. This episode is dedicated to Macarius of Egypt. We’re not suggesting you become a hermit, but he was on to something. Also, when you can manage hermits you’ll understand how many middle managers feel. 3:52 The quote of the week is from Michael Farraday who suggests that the ability to concentrate is the first of many things a business person (or manager!) needs to be successful. 4:30 Welcome Dave Crenshaw to the show. Multitasking is in many of our job descriptions, so what’s the problem with multitasking? It doesn’t exist. I’ll let Dave explain…… we’re “switch tasking”. 9:15 You have to differentiate between “switch tasking” and “background tasking”. You can do multiple things at the same time if you are doing something mindless or mundane. 11:10 What is in our control? Technology is a great place to start and we’re starting with email…. check at a set time. He’s serious, stop laughing. 15:50 How do you handle interruptions???? That “quick question” she has can kill your day… plan one on one time…. don’t tell me you don’t have the time cause you wind up spending it anyway? Keeping a running list and training your people to do the same will save your sanity. 20:45 How do you distinguish between important and urgent? We blaspheme Stephen Covey’s work… i love doing that on this show…. priority is a matter of time, not definition. 23:00 Set up filters and get control of your life….which is great if you are functionally computer literate. I’m an idiot….. 27:00 Dave’s Resources: Check out the Multitasking Assessment if you dare. Click here to take the assessment Check out The Advenutes of Johnny Bunko by Dan Pink Don’t let the weasels get you down! Wayne Turmel takes on multi-tasking middle managers, among other things, with Dave Crenshaw, author of The Myth of Multitasking- How “Doing It All” Gets Nothing Done. Also, is managing hermits an oxymoron? Oh, and an engineer talks about concentration. Dave Crenshaw- how does someone who does everything he does decry multitasking????? Don’t forget, if you want tools, templates and advice to run better meetings, order the ebook “Meet Like You Mean It- The Cranky Middle Manager’s Guide to Productive and Painless Meetings”. Only $7.99 Also there’s a FREE Cranky Middle Manager Webinar on February 26th, 2009 at 1 PM Eastern Time (US), brought to you in cooperation with Dimdim. Register here and get a free copy of my white paper “Team Communication and Training in the Workplace Diaspora” . Show Notes- 0:00 Welcome to the show. This episode is dedicated to Macarius of Egypt. We’re not suggesting you become a hermit, but he was on to something. Also, when you can manage hermits you’ll understand how many middle managers feel. 3:52 The quote of the week is from Michael Farraday who suggests that the ability to concentrate is the first of many things a business person (or manager!) needs to be successful. 4:30 Welcome Dave Crenshaw to the show. Multitasking is in many of our job descriptions, so what’s the problem with multitasking? It doesn’t exist. I’ll let Dave explain…… we’re “switch tasking”. 9:15 You have to differentiate between “switch tasking” and “background tasking”. You can do multiple things at the same time if you are doing something mindless or mundane. 11:10 What is in our control? Technology is a great place to start and we’re starting with email…. check at a set time. He’s serious, stop laughing. 15:50 How do you handle interruptions???? That “quick question” she has can kill your day… plan one on one time…. don’t tell me you don’t have the time cause you wind up spending it anyway? Keeping a running list and training your people to do the same will save your sanity. 20:45 How do you distinguish between important and urgent? We blaspheme Stephen Covey’s work… i love doing that on this show…. priority is a matter of time, not definition. 23:00 Set up filters and get control of your life….which is great if you are functionally computer literate. I’m an idiot….. 27:00 Dave’s Resources: Check out the Multitasking Assessment if you dare. Click here to take the assessment Check out The Advenutes of Johnny Bunko by Dan Pink Don’t let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-01-26,23949658 Mon, 26 Jan 2009 08:52:50 -0800 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, time management, multitasking, career, stress, manager, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, middle management, Dave Crenshaw http://www.odeo.com/episodes/23901714-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-176-Reward-Systems-with-Steve-Kerr Today Wayne Turmel talks with Steve Kerr of Goldman Sachs ( and formerly of GE) about his book, Reward Systems- Does Yours Measure Up? How do you design rewards that get the behavior you want and not dysfunction? Also we look at unintended consequences in Greek mythology and there’s a Cranky Middle Manager e-learning course for you to check out on YouTube. Steve Kerr, today’s guest Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today we have a lot to cover, starting with our dedication to Cadmus- the founder of Thebes and kind of the poster child for trying to manage effectively, do what your told and still get bit in the rear by unintended consequences. 4:00 Lots of cool stuff going on with the show in the next little while. Check out our Cranky Middle Manager YouTube video- 71/2 Minutes to Better Email. Also, watch this blogsite for upcoming webinars, training and other learning events. The nice lady in HR has slashed your budget, let me help you find what you’re looking f... Today Wayne Turmel talks with Steve Kerr of Goldman Sachs ( and formerly of GE) about his book, Reward Systems- Does Yours Measure Up? How do you design rewards that get the behavior you want and not dysfunction? Also we look at unintended consequences in Greek mythology and there’s a Cranky Middle Manager e-learning course for you to check out on YouTube. Steve Kerr, today’s guest Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today we have a lot to cover, starting with our dedication to Cadmus- the founder of Thebes and kind of the poster child for trying to manage effectively, do what your told and still get bit in the rear by unintended consequences. 4:00 Lots of cool stuff going on with the show in the next little while. Check out our Cranky Middle Manager YouTube video- 71/2 Minutes to Better Email. Also, watch this blogsite for upcoming webinars, training and other learning events. The nice lady in HR has slashed your budget, let me help you find what you’re looking for. 5:22 The quote of the week is from Herman Melville, who was a lot like my mother- good work is its own reward and we sleep the sleep of the just. Steve Kerr might disagree. 6:07 Welcome Steve Kerr. He’s senior advisor on learning for Goldman Sachs and former CLO at GE so our careers have crossed even if we’ve never met.  We talked about him and his book in Episode 170 with the boys from 800 CEO READ. Why are reward systems so tough to design? First of all, we’re not taught to do it very well. 9:15 Rewards are the wrong thing to start with. First is what are you trying to achieve, then comes how you’re going to measure it, THEN figure out how to reward it. My own painful experience is that rewards and behavior aren’t always aligned. 11:10 Some dysfunctional behaviors include rewarding short term results if you’re looking for a long term solution. People will figure out how to game any system. 12:40 The components of a recognition system: The reward must be available People must be eligible (I go on a rant about President’s Club and letting the sales weasels have all the fun) Rewards should be scarce They should be visible They should be timely The should be reversible- they can be taken away 15:45 Should everyone know what everyone gets for a bonus? Jack Welch certainly thought so… Most people thing everyone is doing better than they are. 17:19 Jack Welch is identified as maybe the manager of the century, and I’m ambivalent. What did he do well and not so well? (Full disclosure, I taught at GE;s Crotonville facility as part of my old dreaded day job). What did their reward systems encourage and what were the downsides? We also discuss the GE policy of mandating the firing of the bottom 10% of the staff each year which has horrified me for years. 22:50 Rewards should be timely…. and this conflicts with the annual review. Yes, another discussion about the horrors of annual performance reviews. We also talk about reversibility of rewards- they should be able to be taken away 26:40 How does Steve approach learning at Goldman Sachs, a financial services firm dealing with chaos? Companies frequently slash training budgets when things get tight. 29:00 Are rewards universal? At GE did the same thing work in China as in the US? Middle managers can give great input here. Steve’s resources: Support the TPNPledge Drive Don’t let the weasels get you down! Today Wayne Turmel talks with Steve Kerr of Goldman Sachs ( and formerly of GE) about his book, Reward Systems- Does Yours Measure Up? How do you design rewards that get the behavior you want and not dysfunction? Also we look at unintended consequences in Greek mythology and there’s a Cranky Middle Manager e-learning course for you to check out on YouTube. Steve Kerr, today’s guest Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Today we have a lot to cover, starting with our dedication to Cadmus- the founder of Thebes and kind of the poster child for trying to manage effectively, do what your told and still get bit in the rear by unintended consequences. 4:00 Lots of cool stuff going on with the show in the next little while. Check out our Cranky Middle Manager YouTube video- 71/2 Minutes to Better Email. Also, watch this blogsite for upcoming webinars, training and other learning events. The nice lady in HR has slashed your budget, let me help you find what you’re looking for. 5:22 The quote of the week is from Herman Melville, who was a lot like my mother- good work is its own reward and we sleep the sleep of the just. Steve Kerr might disagree. 6:07 Welcome Steve Kerr. He’s senior advisor on learning for Goldman Sachs and former CLO at GE so our careers have crossed even if we’ve never met.  We talked about him and his book in Episode 170 with the boys from 800 CEO READ. Why are reward systems so tough to design? First of all, we’re not taught to do it very well. 9:15 Rewards are the wrong thing to start with. First is what are you trying to achieve, then comes how you’re going to measure it, THEN figure out how to reward it. My own painful experience is that rewards and behavior aren’t always aligned. 11:10 Some dysfunctional behaviors include rewarding short term results if you’re looking for a long term solution. People will figure out how to game any system. 12:40 The components of a recognition system: The reward must be available People must be eligible (I go on a rant about President’s Club and letting the sales weasels have all the fun) Rewards should be scarce They should be visible They should be timely The should be reversible- they can be taken away 15:45 Should everyone know what everyone gets for a bonus? Jack Welch certainly thought so… Most people thing everyone is doing better than they are. 17:19 Jack Welch is identified as maybe the manager of the century, and I’m ambivalent. What did he do well and not so well? (Full disclosure, I taught at GE;s Crotonville facility as part of my old dreaded day job). What did their reward systems encourage and what were the downsides? We also discuss the GE policy of mandating the firing of the bottom 10% of the staff each year which has horrified me for years. 22:50 Rewards should be timely…. and this conflicts with the annual review. Yes, another discussion about the horrors of annual performance reviews. We also talk about reversibility of rewards- they should be able to be taken away 26:40 How does Steve approach learning at Goldman Sachs, a financial services firm dealing with chaos? Companies frequently slash training budgets when things get tight. 29:00 Are rewards universal? At GE did the same thing work in China as in the US? Middle managers can give great input here. Steve’s resources: Support the TPNPledge Drive Don’t let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-01-19,23901714 Mon, 19 Jan 2009 08:25:17 -0800 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, hr, Humor, management, training, reward, recognition, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, Steve Kerr http://www.odeo.com/episodes/23870111-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-175-Why-Good-Managers-Do-Stupid-Things-Rom-Brafman Today Wayne Turmel talks about the curse of middle management- why smart people do irrational things with Rom Brafman, co-author of Sway- the Irresistable Pull of Irrational Behavior. Oh and Mozi (Mo Tzu) and William Gladstone. Irrationality knows no borders or eras…… Rom Brafman, probably wondering what your’e doing listening to the likes of me- a questionable decision but one for which I am truly grateful. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to show 175. Today we’re talking to Rom Brafman about SWAY- The Irresistable Pull of Irrational Behavior. This is truly the curse of middle managers everywhere and answers a lot of questions. Plus, it fits my slightly cynical-but-romantic view of the world. So does Mozi (or Mo Tzu), to whom this show is dedicated… and I think it’s a rational choice but after this conversation who knows? 2:45 The quote of the week is from William Gladstone and it’s all about not confusing conviction with being right… arguing ... Today Wayne Turmel talks about the curse of middle management- why smart people do irrational things with Rom Brafman, co-author of Sway- the Irresistable Pull of Irrational Behavior. Oh and Mozi (Mo Tzu) and William Gladstone. Irrationality knows no borders or eras…… Rom Brafman, probably wondering what your’e doing listening to the likes of me- a questionable decision but one for which I am truly grateful. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to show 175. Today we’re talking to Rom Brafman about SWAY- The Irresistable Pull of Irrational Behavior. This is truly the curse of middle managers everywhere and answers a lot of questions. Plus, it fits my slightly cynical-but-romantic view of the world. So does Mozi (or Mo Tzu), to whom this show is dedicated… and I think it’s a rational choice but after this conversation who knows? 2:45 The quote of the week is from William Gladstone and it’s all about not confusing conviction with being right… arguing doesn’t make you right… unless you’re my wife then OF COURSE I’m wrong…… oh and don’t forget to visit www.crankymiddlemanager.com or support the TPN Pledge Drive 4:24 Welcome Rom Brafman, who with his brother Ori wrote SWAY. Yes, Darwin was an optimist, but what does that mean to managers? It’s critical to understand why we make the decisions we do. There are 4 traps that people fall into: Loss Aversion The Diagnosis Bias Commitment Group Dynamics 7:00 Why is “Loss Aversion” irrational?  We overreact to losses- and make poor decisions. A Harvard experiment involving $20 is a great example. This is also why marketing budgets get slashed when we need them most. 13:00 The “Diagnosis Bias” is maybe the most chilling thing in the book. What does the NBA draft have to do with hiring managers in Dubai? Only everything….. Hiring someone after one interview is completely irrational, as are most of the ways we identify contenders. Listen and blush. 18:25 Maybe I’m just anti-social but I don’t have much faith in group dynamics. The Russians sure don’t. Dissent is really hard but it’s a manager’s job to allow and encourage it. 25:25 To get the group going, call on the person who will hate your idea most…. talk about irrational but it makes sense. You have to listen to your inner voice. If you feel like something’s wrong- you probably are. 30:00 Rom’s resources: Predictably Irrational, Dan Ariely Don’t let the weasels get you down! Today Wayne Turmel talks about the curse of middle management- why smart people do irrational things with Rom Brafman, co-author of Sway- the Irresistable Pull of Irrational Behavior. Oh and Mozi (Mo Tzu) and William Gladstone. Irrationality knows no borders or eras…… Rom Brafman, probably wondering what your’e doing listening to the likes of me- a questionable decision but one for which I am truly grateful. Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to show 175. Today we’re talking to Rom Brafman about SWAY- The Irresistable Pull of Irrational Behavior. This is truly the curse of middle managers everywhere and answers a lot of questions. Plus, it fits my slightly cynical-but-romantic view of the world. So does Mozi (or Mo Tzu), to whom this show is dedicated… and I think it’s a rational choice but after this conversation who knows? 2:45 The quote of the week is from William Gladstone and it’s all about not confusing conviction with being right… arguing doesn’t make you right… unless you’re my wife then OF COURSE I’m wrong…… oh and don’t forget to visit www.crankymiddlemanager.com or support the TPN Pledge Drive 4:24 Welcome Rom Brafman, who with his brother Ori wrote SWAY. Yes, Darwin was an optimist, but what does that mean to managers? It’s critical to understand why we make the decisions we do. There are 4 traps that people fall into: Loss Aversion The Diagnosis Bias Commitment Group Dynamics 7:00 Why is “Loss Aversion” irrational?  We overreact to losses- and make poor decisions. A Harvard experiment involving $20 is a great example. This is also why marketing budgets get slashed when we need them most. 13:00 The “Diagnosis Bias” is maybe the most chilling thing in the book. What does the NBA draft have to do with hiring managers in Dubai? Only everything….. Hiring someone after one interview is completely irrational, as are most of the ways we identify contenders. Listen and blush. 18:25 Maybe I’m just anti-social but I don’t have much faith in group dynamics. The Russians sure don’t. Dissent is really hard but it’s a manager’s job to allow and encourage it. 25:25 To get the group going, call on the person who will hate your idea most…. talk about irrational but it makes sense. You have to listen to your inner voice. If you feel like something’s wrong- you probably are. 30:00 Rom’s resources: Predictably Irrational, Dan Ariely Don’t let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-01-13,23870111 Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:54:53 -0800 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, management, sway, manager, Decision Making, wayne turmel, irrational, Cranky Middle Manager. Brafman http://www.odeo.com/episodes/23844763-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-174-Nice-Managers-Can-Win-Russ-Edelman Wayne Turmel risks his cranky reputation by talking to Russ Edelman, author of “Nice Guys Can Get the Corner Office – 8 Strategies for Winning in Business Without Being a Jerk“. So how come you can’t Google any “nice” leaders other than Ghandi, and his own children hated him? Of course, you could be really nice and order the Cranky MIddle Manager Book, “125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels- Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks From the Cranky  Middle Manager” Russ Edelman, nice guy Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Thanks to all of you nice people who helped rebuild our archives. We have successfully dug up every past episode! Too bad we couldn’t find a single leader form the past on Google using “nice” and “leadership” as key words. Don’t despair. Maybe nice people CAN get the top job, we just usually don’t want to do what it takes to achieve it. 3:17 Quotes with the word “nice&#... Wayne Turmel risks his cranky reputation by talking to Russ Edelman, author of “Nice Guys Can Get the Corner Office – 8 Strategies for Winning in Business Without Being a Jerk“. So how come you can’t Google any “nice” leaders other than Ghandi, and his own children hated him? Of course, you could be really nice and order the Cranky MIddle Manager Book, “125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels- Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks From the Cranky  Middle Manager” Russ Edelman, nice guy Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Thanks to all of you nice people who helped rebuild our archives. We have successfully dug up every past episode! Too bad we couldn’t find a single leader form the past on Google using “nice” and “leadership” as key words. Don’t despair. Maybe nice people CAN get the top job, we just usually don’t want to do what it takes to achieve it. 3:17 Quotes with the word “nice” are a scarcity, but gracious will work in a pinch. Are you a continent or an island? Francis Bacon wants to know…. 4:35 Welcome Russ Edelman. Guys does not necessarily mean men.  Therapy for Wayne- being a “nice guy” is not always a compliment. On the positive side, Nice is positive, caring, ethical… on the downside it can mean you’re a doormat. 7:40 You have to define boundaries if you’re not going to get walked on…. of course you can do it nicely. And you can learn from the jerks. Really. 10:39 We want to work for nice people…do we want to vote for them too???  Russ tells a great story about the culture at Price Waterhouse Coopers. 12:11 You need to be self aware- and there are three things that make nice people unsuccessful: Self delusion, Self Denial, Pattern UN-recognition 16:30 You have to actually DO things in order to change your behavior. Defining boundaries, for example. 21:04 Are you nice or just conflict averse? Can you learn to step up and be assertive? 25:23 Russ’ resources: Made to Stick by the Heath Brothers Blue Ocean Strategy (newsflash, we’re working on getting the author but it is a tortuous path) Hey, i’m on Twitter now…. if you care to follow me I’m at www.twitter.com/greatwebmeeting Don't let the weasels get you down! Wayne Turmel risks his cranky reputation by talking to Russ Edelman, author of “Nice Guys Can Get the Corner Office – 8 Strategies for Winning in Business Without Being a Jerk“. So how come you can’t Google any “nice” leaders other than Ghandi, and his own children hated him? Of course, you could be really nice and order the Cranky MIddle Manager Book, “125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels- Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks From the Cranky  Middle Manager” Russ Edelman, nice guy Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show. Thanks to all of you nice people who helped rebuild our archives. We have successfully dug up every past episode! Too bad we couldn’t find a single leader form the past on Google using “nice” and “leadership” as key words. Don’t despair. Maybe nice people CAN get the top job, we just usually don’t want to do what it takes to achieve it. 3:17 Quotes with the word “nice” are a scarcity, but gracious will work in a pinch. Are you a continent or an island? Francis Bacon wants to know…. 4:35 Welcome Russ Edelman. Guys does not necessarily mean men.  Therapy for Wayne- being a “nice guy” is not always a compliment. On the positive side, Nice is positive, caring, ethical… on the downside it can mean you’re a doormat. 7:40 You have to define boundaries if you’re not going to get walked on…. of course you can do it nicely. And you can learn from the jerks. Really. 10:39 We want to work for nice people…do we want to vote for them too???  Russ tells a great story about the culture at Price Waterhouse Coopers. 12:11 You need to be self aware- and there are three things that make nice people unsuccessful: Self delusion, Self Denial, Pattern UN-recognition 16:30 You have to actually DO things in order to change your behavior. Defining boundaries, for example. 21:04 Are you nice or just conflict averse? Can you learn to step up and be assertive? 25:23 Russ’ resources: Made to Stick by the Heath Brothers Blue Ocean Strategy (newsflash, we’re working on getting the author but it is a tortuous path) Hey, i’m on Twitter now…. if you care to follow me I’m at www.twitter.com/greatwebmeeting Don't let the weasels get you down! tag:odeo.com,2009-01-07,23844763 Wed, 07 Jan 2009 11:54:57 -0800 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, General, audio, Leadership, career, management, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, Russ edelman, Nice Guys http://www.odeo.com/episodes/23827952-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-show-173-Johari%E2%80%99s-Window-with-Rick-Lochner Today Wayne Turmel talks to Rick Lochner about the Johari Window and how it can help you prepare for organizational change… or just amaze people that you know cool words like Johari Window. Also we pay tribute to Father Time and a composer gives us no sympathy. You don’t get stuff like this on any other management show, gang. The Johari Window Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show and kiss 2008 and some of my hair goodbye. Today we talk about the Johari Window and leading change. Some changes are more welcome than others to be sure. We dedicate the show to Father Time. By the way…if you have episodes 2, 39, 46,59, 86,109,112, 116,118 or 121 on your hard drive somewhere i’m looking for copies. Don’t forget to support the show by either buying something at our Store or contributing to the TPN Pledge Drive. 4:45 The quote of the week is from Hector Berlioz and remember gang, what doesn’t kill you will still leave you with a nasty limp and a good story.... Today Wayne Turmel talks to Rick Lochner about the Johari Window and how it can help you prepare for organizational change… or just amaze people that you know cool words like Johari Window. Also we pay tribute to Father Time and a composer gives us no sympathy. You don’t get stuff like this on any other management show, gang. The Johari Window Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show and kiss 2008 and some of my hair goodbye. Today we talk about the Johari Window and leading change. Some changes are more welcome than others to be sure. We dedicate the show to Father Time. By the way…if you have episodes 2, 39, 46,59, 86,109,112, 116,118 or 121 on your hard drive somewhere i’m looking for copies. Don’t forget to support the show by either buying something at our Store or contributing to the TPN Pledge Drive. 4:45 The quote of the week is from Hector Berlioz and remember gang, what doesn’t kill you will still leave you with a nasty limp and a good story. 5:48 Today we are talking change and the Johari Window. What the heck is a Johari window and why do we care? Here you go… we promised 12:00 Rick walks us through a practical application we can all relate to. There’s a reorg coming…buckle up. 16:45 Once you know a change is coming you use Kurt Lewin’s model.. unfreeze, change, freeze. Amazing how many people forget the freeze part. 24:21 Filling in your blind spot is where it all falls apart. I pass the test and if I can get it, then you all can too. 27:31 You can do an online assessment using the Johari Window, check it out here. Rick’s Resources Ram Charan’s “Leaders at all levels” Sun Tzu’s Art of War Today Wayne Turmel talks to Rick Lochner about the Johari Window and how it can help you prepare for organizational change… or just amaze people that you know cool words like Johari Window. Also we pay tribute to Father Time and a composer gives us no sympathy. You don’t get stuff like this on any other management show, gang. The Johari Window Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show and kiss 2008 and some of my hair goodbye. Today we talk about the Johari Window and leading change. Some changes are more welcome than others to be sure. We dedicate the show to Father Time. By the way…if you have episodes 2, 39, 46,59, 86,109,112, 116,118 or 121 on your hard drive somewhere i’m looking for copies. Don’t forget to support the show by either buying something at our Store or contributing to the TPN Pledge Drive. 4:45 The quote of the week is from Hector Berlioz and remember gang, what doesn’t kill you will still leave you with a nasty limp and a good story. 5:48 Today we are talking change and the Johari Window. What the heck is a Johari window and why do we care? Here you go… we promised 12:00 Rick walks us through a practical application we can all relate to. There’s a reorg coming…buckle up. 16:45 Once you know a change is coming you use Kurt Lewin’s model.. unfreeze, change, freeze. Amazing how many people forget the freeze part. 24:21 Filling in your blind spot is where it all falls apart. I pass the test and if I can get it, then you all can too. 27:31 You can do an online assessment using the Johari Window, check it out here. Rick’s Resources Ram Charan’s “Leaders at all levels” Sun Tzu’s Art of War tag:odeo.com,2008-12-30,23827952 Tue, 30 Dec 2008 14:34:55 -0800 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, General, audio, Leadership, hr, Show, management, change, wayne turmel, Cranky Middle Manager, rick lochner, johari window http://www.odeo.com/episodes/23792092-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-172-Be-a-Shortcut-Scott-Halford Today Wayne Turmel talks to author Scott Halford about careers, being known as “the guy” (even when you’re not), and establishing the kind of rep at work you want. Oh and the usual assortment of Greeks, Persians and pretentious 19th century white guys. Scott Halford, author of “Be a Shortcut- The Secret Fast Track to Business Success” Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to our 172nd show. Today we’re talking “being a shortcut”…becoming the kind of person people want to have around because you can get things done. We dedicate the show to Themistocles.... nothing says you know your stuff like getting hired by the competition… although it’s a bit tacky in wartime. 3:02 The quote of the week is from William Hazlitt once again- don’t undervalue yourself or people will agree with you. If you like quotes, check out “125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels- Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks From the Cranky Middle M... Today Wayne Turmel talks to author Scott Halford about careers, being known as “the guy” (even when you’re not), and establishing the kind of rep at work you want. Oh and the usual assortment of Greeks, Persians and pretentious 19th century white guys. Scott Halford, author of “Be a Shortcut- The Secret Fast Track to Business Success” Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to our 172nd show. Today we’re talking “being a shortcut”…becoming the kind of person people want to have around because you can get things done. We dedicate the show to Themistocles.... nothing says you know your stuff like getting hired by the competition… although it’s a bit tacky in wartime. 3:02 The quote of the week is from William Hazlitt once again- don’t undervalue yourself or people will agree with you. If you like quotes, check out “125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels- Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks From the Cranky Middle Manager Show” 4:17 Welcome Scott Halford, of CompleteIntelligence.com and Beashortcut.com to talk about, well, becoming a shortcut. This is all about you and your career today so listen up. These are what old folks like to call “parlous times” and if you become what we in Chicago like to call “the guy” it’s great for your career. Shortcut is NOT a bad thing. 9:02 Are you a shortcut or a bottleneck? It’s really about influence.Think of someone you go to for a specific reason, and they know it will get taken care of with no drama, on time and correctly. That could be you. 12:42 Three things make people utilize a shortcut- time, talent or desire. Then there’s  one more thing…do you have the emotional intelligence to complete the equation? 15:32 How do you make it known that you could be a shortcut for people without being seen as grandstanding or showing off? 21:47 Some of us make a shortcut out of helping connect other people and knowing where to go for what. John Naisbitt wrote about this in Megatrends. Your network is incredibly powerful if you utilize it. Of course, picking up dog poop is useful too. 25:38 One of Scott’s resources is Mark Sanborn Also, there’s Barry Schwartz on the Paradox of Choice. Watch him speak about it here. Don’t forget, if your company uses web meetings or is thinking about using webinars more, visit us at www.greatwebmeetings.com. Don't let the weasels get you         down Today Wayne Turmel talks to author Scott Halford about careers, being known as “the guy” (even when you’re not), and establishing the kind of rep at work you want. Oh and the usual assortment of Greeks, Persians and pretentious 19th century white guys. Scott Halford, author of “Be a Shortcut- The Secret Fast Track to Business Success” Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to our 172nd show. Today we’re talking “being a shortcut”…becoming the kind of person people want to have around because you can get things done. We dedicate the show to Themistocles.... nothing says you know your stuff like getting hired by the competition… although it’s a bit tacky in wartime. 3:02 The quote of the week is from William Hazlitt once again- don’t undervalue yourself or people will agree with you. If you like quotes, check out “125 Quotes for Whacking Weasels- Centuries of Wisdom, Motivation and Snappy Comebacks From the Cranky Middle Manager Show” 4:17 Welcome Scott Halford, of CompleteIntelligence.com and Beashortcut.com to talk about, well, becoming a shortcut. This is all about you and your career today so listen up. These are what old folks like to call “parlous times” and if you become what we in Chicago like to call “the guy” it’s great for your career. Shortcut is NOT a bad thing. 9:02 Are you a shortcut or a bottleneck? It’s really about influence.Think of someone you go to for a specific reason, and they know it will get taken care of with no drama, on time and correctly. That could be you. 12:42 Three things make people utilize a shortcut- time, talent or desire. Then there’s  one more thing…do you have the emotional intelligence to complete the equation? 15:32 How do you make it known that you could be a shortcut for people without being seen as grandstanding or showing off? 21:47 Some of us make a shortcut out of helping connect other people and knowing where to go for what. John Naisbitt wrote about this in Megatrends. Your network is incredibly powerful if you utilize it. Of course, picking up dog poop is useful too. 25:38 One of Scott’s resources is Mark Sanborn Also, there’s Barry Schwartz on the Paradox of Choice. Watch him speak about it here. Don’t forget, if your company uses web meetings or is thinking about using webinars more, visit us at www.greatwebmeetings.com. Don't let the weasels get you         down tag:odeo.com,2008-12-22,23792092 Mon, 22 Dec 2008 06:51:35 -0800 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, audio, career, management, Blog, manager, wayne turmel, middle manager, Cranky Middle Manager Show, be a shortcut, Scott Halford, emotional intelligence http://www.odeo.com/episodes/23749303-The-Cranky-Middle-Manager-Show-171-Managing-in-Rough-Times-Wally-Bock Today Wayne Turmel discusses the role of middle managers when times get rocky. His guest is Wally Bock of Threestar Leadership. OH, and we talk about mutiny, gay captains and Roman survivors. The usual madness that is our show. Wally Bock, Dinosaur Egg Stomper Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show folks.. Tough times call for tough managers and that’s why we’re here.  Yes, it’s layoff season…first they came for the hourly folks..then the sales weasels….then there was no one left to help us…such is the lot of middle management. This episode is dedicated to Henry Hudson, maybe the worst captain to ever also be a famous explorer. Oh, and for pure schadenfreude, try A Brief History of Mutiny. I guarantee you’ll feel better about yourself. 3:12 The quote of the week is from Horace... dying of natural causes was unique among famous Romans- the man new from survival. Don’t forget to support the show by stopping by the CMM Store or supporting th... Today Wayne Turmel discusses the role of middle managers when times get rocky. His guest is Wally Bock of Threestar Leadership. OH, and we talk about mutiny, gay captains and Roman survivors. The usual madness that is our show. Wally Bock, Dinosaur Egg Stomper Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show folks.. Tough times call for tough managers and that’s why we’re here.  Yes, it’s layoff season…first they came for the hourly folks..then the sales weasels….then there was no one left to help us…such is the lot of middle management. This episode is dedicated to Henry Hudson, maybe the worst captain to ever also be a famous explorer. Oh, and for pure schadenfreude, try A Brief History of Mutiny. I guarantee you’ll feel better about yourself. 3:12 The quote of the week is from Horace... dying of natural causes was unique among famous Romans- the man new from survival. Don’t forget to support the show by stopping by the CMM Store or supporting the TPN Pledge drive and help keep us on the air! 4:20 Welcome Wally Bock back to the show (hear his first visit with us here….) Wally knows his stuff, as evidenced by his blog where you can get his report on Managing in a Downturn which you can download here. Why is this downturn different than most? Because when you lay people off you’re getting rid of the people who know stuff. People are not interchangeable anymore, if they ever were. And it’s all about cash. 10:33 The idea of people as costs is outdated. We’re not an assembly line world any more. And we usually misjudge how many people we should have let go in the first place. So now you have fewer  people AND they’re not working at top form because of survivor guilt, fear and stress. 14:26 Wally has no sympathy for leaders who aren’t willing to take the same hit as the workers, as he put in this blog post. He talks about the Automakers who came to Congress to beg for money as leading examples. 17:26 Wally looked at companies that have never laid people off and talks about some of the possibilities- things like reassigning, work sharing and (gasp) starting the sacrifice at the top. 20:20 As managers, how do you manage the news and process of layoffs and other bad news. This is why they call us MIDDLE managers, kids. Don’t keep secrets if possible. Let them know what you know.Rumor will kill you. 26:48 Now it’s Monday morning and it’s time to get back to work with whoever’s left. Survivor guilt is normal and completely unproductive. You need to examine the work that needs to be done and find ways to reassign the work. Get your team involved. Morale and productivity are linked. 31:37 You probably have your own survivor guilt but your job, long as you have it, is to be the manager. That’s why we make the moderate bucks. Suck it  up, gang. 33:27 Don’t forget to request his report on Managing in a Downturn and a bunch of our guests have contributed. Today Wayne Turmel discusses the role of middle managers when times get rocky. His guest is Wally Bock of Threestar Leadership. OH, and we talk about mutiny, gay captains and Roman survivors. The usual madness that is our show. Wally Bock, Dinosaur Egg Stomper Show Notes 0:00 Welcome to the show folks.. Tough times call for tough managers and that’s why we’re here.  Yes, it’s layoff season…first they came for the hourly folks..then the sales weasels….then there was no one left to help us…such is the lot of middle management. This episode is dedicated to Henry Hudson, maybe the worst captain to ever also be a famous explorer. Oh, and for pure schadenfreude, try A Brief History of Mutiny. I guarantee you’ll feel better about yourself. 3:12 The quote of the week is from Horace... dying of natural causes was unique among famous Romans- the man new from survival. Don’t forget to support the show by stopping by the CMM Store or supporting the TPN Pledge drive and help keep us on the air! 4:20 Welcome Wally Bock back to the show (hear his first visit with us here….) Wally knows his stuff, as evidenced by his blog where you can get his report on Managing in a Downturn which you can download here. Why is this downturn different than most? Because when you lay people off you’re getting rid of the people who know stuff. People are not interchangeable anymore, if they ever were. And it’s all about cash. 10:33 The idea of people as costs is outdated. We’re not an assembly line world any more. And we usually misjudge how many people we should have let go in the first place. So now you have fewer  people AND they’re not working at top form because of survivor guilt, fear and stress. 14:26 Wally has no sympathy for leaders who aren’t willing to take the same hit as the workers, as he put in this blog post. He talks about the Automakers who came to Congress to beg for money as leading examples. 17:26 Wally looked at companies that have never laid people off and talks about some of the possibilities- things like reassigning, work sharing and (gasp) starting the sacrifice at the top. 20:20 As managers, how do you manage the news and process of layoffs and other bad news. This is why they call us MIDDLE managers, kids. Don’t keep secrets if possible. Let them know what you know.Rumor will kill you. 26:48 Now it’s Monday morning and it’s time to get back to work with whoever’s left. Survivor guilt is normal and completely unproductive. You need to examine the work that needs to be done and find ways to reassign the work. Get your team involved. Morale and productivity are linked. 31:37 You probably have your own survivor guilt but your job, long as you have it, is to be the manager. That’s why we make the moderate bucks. Suck it  up, gang. 33:27 Don’t forget to request his report on Managing in a Downturn and a bunch of our guests have contributed. tag:odeo.com,2008-12-13,23749303 Sat, 13 Dec 2008 04:50:47 -0800 no TPN :: The Cranky Middle Manager Show podcast, Business, audio, layoffs, management, managing, wayne turmel, Downturn, middle manager, Cranky Middle Manager Show, Wally Bock