Have you noticed in recent years that our everyday language has become weaponized? We have replaced “tools” and “toolkits” with “weapons” and “arsenals.” To respond to a crisis, we now have “SWAT teams” who meet in “war rooms.” When we … Continue reading
When people are driving, it is important for everyone to stay in their lanes, and only switch lanes when it is clear. Driving is a complex activity with a simple goal—get from point A to point B, as safely and … Continue reading
When I look back on all the jobs I’ve had, the ones that have given me the most sleepless nights have in common a continual fear of being criticized. An email from the “boss” or a request to go to … Continue reading
“The Boss is Always Right” is the most dangerous unwritten rule that we follow in the workplace. Pretending that bosses are always right, even when they are not undermines the organizational mission, work goals and healthy relationships. It breeds a … Continue reading
Building on the brilliant insight of the woman who coined the now-popular word, mansplaining, I offer a parallel concept, bossplaining. Bossplaining comes in many forms: Annual Reviews Employee Development Plans Coaching Performance Management Feedback Corrective Action Plans Mentoring Advice …and … Continue reading
While there is an element of luck in getting a job–being in the right place at the right time–when people in positions of power say, “You’re just lucky to have a job!” they aren’t referring to luck at all. They … Continue reading
All of the recent news stories about sexual harassment and exploitation of women in the workplace have been sickening and disturbing on so many levels. First, learning that the alleged behavior was so blatant and involved several high-profile people. Second, … Continue reading
