Business

Two men in a room with papers flying around them.

Culture Clash to Culture Cash: How Workplace Harmony Creates Profit

By Sylvia Lafair | July 9, 2024 |

Summary: We all talk about workplace culture as a critical determinant of success. Yet, many organizations continue to struggle with internal culture clashes that hinder productivity and growth. Transforming these clashes into a harmonious and profitable workplace isn’t just a utopian ideal; it’s a tangible goal that can drive significant financial and operational benefits. Let’s…

Read More
A group of people sitting around a table.

Navigating Workplace Conflict: Turning Challenges into Opportunities

By Sylvia Lafair | June 20, 2024 |

Summary: What keeps most leaders up at night is when conflict continuously flares up. Personalities clash, stress levels rise, and external pressures infiltrate the workplace. If you find yourself dealing with the same conflicts repeatedly, your leadership style might be contributing to the problem. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am exhausted. The conflict at work doesnt…

Read More
A woman standing in front of various arrows and question marks.

Six Questions to Ask in Uncertain Times

By Sylvia Lafair | June 6, 2024 |

Summary: Effective leadership development requires us to read the signs of the times and lead people to a better, more positive place. How do we move from pistols to peace-tools? Key questions are below. Dear Dr. Sylvia, We are living in a world of extremes. That shows up at my organization all the time. Those…

Read More
A man in suit and tie holding onto rope

The Dichotomy of Power: How Emotionally Powerless Leaders Seek External Dominance

By Sylvia Lafair | May 30, 2024 |

Summary: Leaders are often seen as paragons of strength and confidence. Yet beneath this façade, many grapple with feelings of powerlessness. This emotional turmoil can significantly impact their leadership style, prompting a compensatory quest for external power. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for fostering healthier leadership and organizational cultures. Dear Dr. Sylvia, One Senior Vice…

Read More
A group of people sitting at a table.

Leadership Training is Vital for All Companies

By Sylvia Lafair | May 20, 2024 |

Summary: Effective leadership training enhances organizational performance. It also fosters innovation, and builds resilience in facing challenges; Here’s an exploration of why leadership training is essential. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am the head of HR at a company that is growing at warp speed. However, many of those on the newly formed Executive Team and…

Read More
A man and a woman standing next to each other.

Breaking Through Negativity: How Leaders Can Spark Positive Change in the Workplace

By Sylvia Lafair | April 30, 2024 |

Summary: Whether it’s bad news or the challenges of everyday life, negativity can seep into our minds and workplaces. This impacts morale, productivity, and overall well-being. However, amidst the darkness, there are beacons of light. Leaders who possess the vision, empathy, and determination to foster positivity drive change. Be a beacon! Dear Dr. Sylvia, I…

Read More
A group of people with their hands in the air.

Cultivating Trust: Nurturing Boundaries That Keep Individuals and Teams Feeling Safe

By Sylvia Lafair | April 17, 2024 |

Summary: In any environment, whether it’s a workplace, a community group, or even within a family, trust is the cornerstone of healthy relationships and effective collaboration. It’s the invisible thread that weaves through every interaction, binding individuals together in mutual respect and understanding. However, cultivating trust is not a one-time task; it’s an ongoing process…

Read More
A person sitting at a table with an open book

Crafting Compelling Personal Narratives in the Business World

By Sylvia Lafair | April 15, 2024 |

Summary: The art of storytelling can be a powerful tool in the business world. When done properly, story fosters connections, inspires action, and conveys complex ideas. Personal narratives, in particular, have the ability to humanize business interactions, making them more relatable and memorable. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I recently told a personal story at a work…

Read More
A man holding onto a red bag while another man is looking at him with an angry bull shadow behind them.

Nurturing Personal and Organizational Health: A Systems Thinking Approach to Dealing with a “Bully Boss”

By Sylvia Lafair | April 11, 2024 |

Summary: In today’s workplace, the behavior of senior leaders plays a pivotal role in shaping organizational culture and employee well-being. Challenges often arise when dealing with a “bully boss,” whose strong-willed nature can create a toxic environment. Adopting a systems thinking approach, which emphasizes understanding the interconnectedness of various elements within a system, along with…

Read More
A pattern of the oscars on an orange background.

Glimmers to Greatness: Cultivating Relationship Connections

By Sylvia Lafair | April 1, 2024 |

Summary: Relationships lie at the heart of effective leadership. They are the bedrock upon which trust, collaboration, and influence are built. The ability to forge and nurture meaningful relationships is paramount for leaders seeking to navigate complexity and drive sustainable change. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I report to the second most important person in our organization.…

Read More