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SmartBrief Article: Will Starbucks Return to Howard Behar’s “It’s All About the People” Leadership?

Photo of Howard Behar used with permission

Current Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol has signaled that the company is looking back to its past to rediscover its greatness.

In a recent article published by SmartBrief, Katharine Stallard and I share why part of that return to the past should include a people-first leadership philosophy exemplified by former Starbucks leader Howard Behar.

To learn more about Howard’s connection-focused leadership style, and how it could benefit Starbucks again, check out the SmartBrief article.

Photo of Howard Behar courtesy of Howard Behar

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The Global Stakes of US Democracy

Article published by IE University

Photo of the White House South Lawn by Wikimedia user Matt Wade

I write and speak about leadership, advocating for a group culture rich with the kind of positive social connection that brings out the best in individuals and thus the collective group. My focus is on what leaders should do to connect people: inspire and unite them around a shared vision and mission, value each individual, and give them a voice.

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HR at a Crossroads: Article Published by SmartBrief

Business woman experiencing burnout

In the past four years, HR professionals have encountered a host of challenges, including seismic work shifts due to the Covid-19 pandemic, The Great Resignation, and much more. Caught between the dictates of upper management and the wrath of employees in response to policy changes, HR professionals are feeling misunderstood, frustrated, and disengaged.

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Satya Nadella Prepares Microsoft for Rapids of the Fourth Industrial Revolution

Image of Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella smiling

First published by Smartbrief on Leadership

As artificial intelligence continues to advance, the internal workings of Microsoft should be a matter of interest to more than just its employees and shareholders. Being a major player in AI, Microsoft will face considerable opportunities, challenges, and even threats of enormous magnitude in the years to come. Is Microsoft ready to navigate well if the sometimes smooth, sometimes choppy waters in the world of technology suddenly turn chaotic?

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Political Division Adds to Employee Engagement Woes: Stop Them Both with This Strategy

SmartBrief on Leadership Article

I voted stickers

The combination of rising political division and declining employee engagement levels present a significant challenge for organizations.

However, by training leaders and managers to cultivate cultures of connection, we can create workplaces where employees thrive despite their differences. This not only enhances individual and team performance but also contributes to a more harmonious and productive organizational culture. It is time for leaders to take proactive steps in building connected cultures that transcend political differences and foster a more engaged, collaborative, and cooperative workforce.

I wrote about this topic in a recent SmartBrief on Leadership article. In it, you can learn more about my recommendations on how to prepare your leaders for the upcoming election season.

Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash

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The Perils of Charisma Without Character in Leadership

Charismatic leader buttoning suit

In the annals of history and the chronicles of modern times, the rise and fall of leaders provide valuable lessons about the essential traits of effective leadership for current leaders, aspiring leaders, and the organizations that hire and promote them. One recurring theme is the disastrous consequences when charisma precedes character.