ABC's of Team Building – Q is for Quality and Qualified

I think most would agree that they want to work for a quality organization, alongside those who have the skills, emotional intelligence, etc. to get their jobs done well.  Unfortunately, this is not always the case.  Usually teams are put together based off of other factors including seniority, politics, and technical ability.  This causes major … Read more

ABC’s of Team Building – O is for Opportunities

In my life, I have felt the greatest fulfillment when I opened myself up to new opportunities.  Have I sometimes been scared or anxious?  YES!  Have I tried to talk myself out of it?  Sometimes!  Have others criticized me for doing something that they would never do?  Absolutely, but that is what has set me … Read more

ABC’s of Team Building – L is for Listen and Learn

In a team setting or frankly in any relationship, one of the biggest problems is communication.  For a world where there are so many ways to communicate, we are actually pretty bad at it.  When we are in a dialogue with a colleague, family member, or friend, are we really listening to what is being … Read more

ABC’s of Team Building – F is for Fun and Functionality

When one thinks of team building activities the word “fun” comes to mind.  Some examples are the marshmallow challenge, Two Truths and a Lie, and Trust Fall.  More elaborate activities are half or full day retreats off-site that include water games, building exercises, etc. Regardless of the exercise used, the idea of team building is … Read more

ABC’s of Team Building – E is for Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence (EI and also known as EQ) is defined as the ability to identify, comprehend, and manage our emotions.   This is challenging for leaders who are trying to ascertain each team member’s emotional intelligence because EQ will affect one’s behaviors which in turn impacts other people on the team. It is usually easier to … Read more

8 Ball

The definition of an 8 ball is “being stuck in a hard, unfavorable or uncomfortable position.”  During our careers, most people feel at one point or another that they are in a difficult position either with their boss, coworkers, clients, or even their subordinates.  By not communicating effectively, the situation can escalate and be a … Read more

Fifth Avenue

Growing up in Westchester County, NY, I was fortunate enough to be able to visit Manhattan pretty frequently.  Although “the city” has many wonderful places to explore, Fifth Avenue has always seemed extra special to me.  During the holidays, all the shop windows are decorated, especially Saks Fifth Avenue, and Rockefeller Center has its majestic … Read more

Two for Tea

Drinking tea with others is a ritual in many countries.  Surprisingly, Turkey and Morocco consume more tea than countries we would normally think of, like England.  For some there is a protocol on how it should be prepared and drunk, and some may even make it more ceremonial. The bigger issue is that it is … Read more