It’s easy to talk about high-performing teams. Everyone wants one. Every organization claims to be building one. But when you dig beneath the surface, you quickly realize that few have truly cracked the code. The problem isn’t the ambition - it’s the approach. Too often, the conversation about … [Read more...]
10 Human Skills Strategies for High Performers: Why They’re Real Skills, Not Soft Attributes
In a world where everything is about measurable results, algorithms, and metrics, there’s something we often overlook - people. It’s easy to get caught up in data, technical expertise, and performance indicators. But the truth is, the most important skills in any workplace, any team, any moment of … [Read more...]
MBA or Not?
Beyond the MBA - Rethinking Career Development in a World That Demands More Than Just Degrees There’s a moment in many professionals' lives when the question of an MBA looms large. Whether it’s whispered in the halls of corporate offices, suggested in passing by well-meaning mentors, or pops up … [Read more...]
The Key to Talent Engagement: The Past Speaks Louder Than the Future
When it comes to talent engagement, we’re often drawn to potential - the glittering promises of what someone could become. We ask about future ambitions: “Where do you see yourself in five years?” “What do you think you’ll bring to the team?” But these hypothetical questions offer little more than a … [Read more...]
The Art of Growing Ideas: Seven Lessons from My Entrepreneurial Journey
In the world of entrepreneurship, ideas are often treated as precious commodities—coveted, nurtured, and polished into existence. But the truth is, most ideas start as seeds, raw and unformed, far from the revolutionary breakthroughs we imagine. The real art lies not in having the idea, but in … [Read more...]
You’re Seen. You’re Enough.
I’ve been thinking a lot about patience lately. Not just the kind that gets us through long lines or slow traffic, but the patience we extend to people - the kind that makes them feel truly seen, the kind that tells them they don’t have to rush to prove their worth. Maybe it’s because I’ve … [Read more...]
No Side Conversations: How Lobbying Before Meetings Erodes Better Decisions
Some of the most important decisions are made before anyone walks into the room. Not formally. Not on the agenda. But in hushed check-ins, thoughtful-sounding messages, or the always-innocent “just wanted to get your take before we meet.” It’s rarely malicious. In fact, it’s usually framed as … [Read more...]
The Art of Building: Hipsters, Hustlers, Hackers, and the Invisible Thread
If you’ve spent any time reading about startups, innovation, or the dynamics of successful teams, you’ve likely come across the Hipster, Hustler, and Hacker framework. On the surface, it seems like a simple way to categorize skill sets within a venture. But I’ve always found that what makes any … [Read more...]
The Quintessential Five: Elevating Your Leadership with Strategic Insight
In the ever-evolving landscape of leadership, the distinction between a leader and a strategic leader becomes increasingly apparent. While foundational leadership skills such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and decision-making form the bedrock of successful leadership, the realm of … [Read more...]
The Critique Navigator: 7 Strategies for Transforming Criticism into Strength
In the realm of professional interactions and personal growth, learning to navigate the rough waters of criticism is crucial. Not all feedback is constructive; some of it stems from a place of sheer negativity or the desire to assert one's opinion, often devoid of any constructive intent. It's this … [Read more...]
Introducing the Strategic Audit Framework: A Blueprint for Thoughtful Decision-Making
In the dynamic world of business, clarity and strategic foresight are key. That's where the Strategic Audit Framework, developed by me, comes into play. This framework isn't just a tool; it's a conversation starter for teams and leaders committed to deep, strategic thinking. With six dimensions - … [Read more...]
Mastering the Art of Context Setting in Problem Solving
In the realm of innovation and problem-solving, context isn't just a backdrop; it's the compass that guides our journey. Understanding the 'why' and 'how' is pivotal in transforming challenges into opportunities. Let's delve into the art of context setting for effective problem … [Read more...]
“Authentic Leadership”: Not a headline-maker, but a life-shaper
Have you ever noticed how often we idolize leaders based on their public personas, their achievements narrated through the words of others (hello, ghostwriters!), or simply the sheen of their success? It's a common scenario, especially among the bright young minds I mentor. The usual suspects? The … [Read more...]
Nurturing Future Changemakers: My Journey with Lambton College
In the midst of my fulfilling role at the Ottawa Community Foundation, I consciously chose to immerse myself in the world of teaching, coaching, and mentoring. Many wonder why I gravitated towards this path. For me, the allure lies in the transformative journey of guiding young individuals, … [Read more...]
Empowering Voices: Unlocking Leadership Potential Across Languages through the “Global Leadership Lab”
Project Lead: Manu Sharma; Project Time-Frame: Launching in July 2024 In an era where language often dictates access to knowledge, the Global Leadership Lab seeks to democratize access to management and leadership education. This pioneering approach aims to transcend linguistic barriers, bringing … [Read more...]