Conflict arises in even the best-run companies and most employee-friendly environments. However, conflict needn't be an unpleasant and destructive influence; instead, it can be used as a force for innovation and positive change. If differences are managed properly, they can draw out diverse ideas, create synergy, and foster the development of better relationships. What every leader needs, therefore, is a...

Innovation is the ability to incrementally or boldly change and improve products, processes, services, or solutions in a way that creates distinctive value for the organization. Innovation is necessary for an organization to reach its full potential, yet many organizations lack this critical skill. Everyone in the organization can develop the capacity to be an innovative force; the Innovation Skills...

Since change is inevitable, especially in organizations, it is essential for everyone to have the ability to embrace change and harness its advantages. Unfortunately, some people have a tendency to view change from a negative perspective because of their natural temperament or past experiences with change. People who are averse to change fear having the status quo altered or their...

Problems come in all sizes—major problems to daily nuisances—and the ability to resolve them is the heart and soul of every job. In fact, for many organizations, success depends on the ability of people in positions of leadership to solve problems effectively. If problems can be solved with greater accuracy, creativity, and confidence, factors that might negatively impact the organization...

Research indicates that front-line managers do not receive enough training to prepare them for taking on leadership roles successfully. Front-line supervisors are often promoted from the line because they are high achievers and show leadership qualities, but at the same time, many new supervisors have mixed emotions about advancing from an individual-contributor position to taking on the responsibilities of a...