Recent articles on hiring, talent management and leadership: October 2011

Let’s Get Creative

It’s easy to put “creatives” in a category all their own, where they’re revered for their innovative thinking. Creativity and innovation, though, isn’t limited to a select few – pretty much everyone has the ability to come up with new, interesting ideas, if given the chance. Check out this piece from Fortune about how you can nurture the creative side within all your employees and thus benefit your business. >> Check it out… 

No One Likes to Eat Lunch Alone, Or, Finding the Right Employee Fit

Ask any manager or business leader and they will agree – finding an employee that fits into your company well is important. What, though, does “fit” mean exactly? Can you define it quickly or is it a general idea, a vague feeling, or just a word? Watch this video from the Harvard Business Review – they interview Sharon Jordan-Evans, president of the Jordan Evans Group, about what “fit” means and how you can truly define it, find better employees and improve your business. >> Take a look…

Engagement: It’s Not About New Mouse Pads

As the economy continues to struggle, many employers are rightfully looking at engaging and inspiring their employees to generate better results. But like this HRM Today articles says, doing so means more than just new mouse pads for everyone or cookies in the break room. Instead, it outlines five guidelines for engaging employees that are similar to techniques used to engage customers: namely, showing them how to become a part of your business’s shared brand.
>> See some tips… 

Don’t Yell ‘Fire’ in a Crowded Room

As much as we hear that the economy is recovering, the reality of business at some corporations doesn’t seem to reflect that. Some are considering cutting their workforce to remain viable and stay afloat. If you’re one of those business leaders thinking about possible workforce reductions, read this first. These 10 tips cover all your bases, from selection criteria to alternatives. >> See the list… 

Rough Meeting? Sleep it Off.

Check out this quirky story from Inc. about how one company started instituting naps for its workers and 15 years later is seeing huge successes. What started off as something others laughed at is now apparently at the cutting edge. Sleep experts agree – short power-naps and mid-day siestas increase productivity and keep employees happier. Just don’t run out and by the $12k EnergyPod sleep chair quite yet.
>> Check it out… 

Lessons from Steve Jobs

Whether you’re an iPhone user or Android devotee, a Mac or a PC, there’s no denying the innovation and vision Steve Jobs brought to the world. In the wake of his passing, International Business Times took a look at Jobs’ leadership style (often called dictatorial and ruthless) and developed a list of take-aways any business leader could benefit from. >> See the list…