Now that people increasingly work remotely, self-management in the workplace is more important than ever. Employees operate from their home offices these days, which means they have to make independent decisions. They can only do that if you provide them with just the right amount of information — not an overload of data, but spot-on, …
Have you ever tried to knock the skin off a rice pudding? Here’s a piece of advice: don’t. It’s a bad idea. So bad, in fact, that it has seeped into our language. When we say someone couldn’t knock the skin off a rice pudding, we mean they’re ineffectual or weak. What is the best …
Why managers should let the proverbial rice pudding thaw Read More »
In the Netherlands, traffic lights are not always strategically placed. When the sun shines from a certain angle, it’s impossible to see the red light turn green. So, you’ll have to make gut decisions — which isn’t advisable in traffic. In countries like the U.S. and Germany, traffic lights usually hang across from an intersection, …
Why presenting data is like hanging a traffic light Read More »
Having lived in Germany for quite a while, I can safely say the Germans pride themselves on efficiency. They generally know how to achieve maximum productivity. But there’s one thing that doesn’t fit the picture. Where I live, villages are interconnected by roads with lots of roundabouts and crossings. Here, the speed limit drops very …
What a German traffic measure can teach us about maximizing efficiency Read More »
Love a flower in full bloom? Chances are it was grown in the right soil. The thing is, each flower is different. You can’t create one bedding and expect roses, anemones, and tulips to blossom collectively. Each flower requires specific conditions, and it pays off to have a closer look at them. Why? If you …
If you can grow a perfect flower, you can help employees thrive Read More »
The other day, I was walking my happy-go-lucky dogs when it suddenly started pouring. My four-footed friends didn’t mind, but I did. I had not brought an umbrella, and I wasn’t all too happy about my rain-soaked coat. Of course, I could have prevented this situation if I’d checked my weather app before going out …
Which umbrella will protect from an uncontrolled rain of information? Read More »
Since the pandemic hit, most people have embraced remote working and retreated into their improvised home offices. During this time, I’ve learned many lessons. But I have to say my five-year-old has taught me one of the most important ones. Let me share it with you, as it will come in handy on every work …
What my five-year-old has taught me about improving employee behavior Read More »
Some find dating exciting. Others believe it’s nerve-racking. But at some point, virtually all people put themselves out there. Most are hoping for a long-term relationship. After all, a genuine connection that culminates in marriage is worth a lot. The initial thrill might fade over time, but think about the energy you put into a …
Do you prefer the business equivalent of dating or marriage? Read More »
You’ve got a ton of tasks to complete, but there are only twenty-four hours in a day. And you also need to eat, sleep, and spend quality time with your loved ones. So, how are you going to make the most of those eight-or-so hours you’re in the (home) office? A typical day at work …
How to free up time and increase employee, customer, and business satisfaction Read More »
Imagine you want to bake a pie. You go to the store and buy butter, eggs, and a bunch of other ingredients. Back home, you put on your apron and get to work. You toil away in the kitchen. A few hours later, you proudly top off the pie with a red cherry, take a …
