Naughty or Nice — Tip of the Week

We have just a few days until Santa’s visit when we’ll find out whether we’ve been naughty or nice. We know that if his performance evaluation is done correctly, it will be based on the entire year or, at least, the last six months. Maybe, given the year we’ve had, he’ll lighten up and give us some credit for the last few days. Therefore, this week:

– Act as though you were visited by the three ghosts of Christmas this past weekend.

– Be mindful that the usual stress felt by your employees at this season is somewhat greater in 2009.

– If you feel extra stress, try not to show it to your employees.

– Try to find a way to brag on your employees between now and the 25th.

– Be a nondiscriminatory secret Santa.

– Encourage teamwork by showing that you’re part of the team.

– If an employee tells you he really needs to talk to you, listen in private.

– Be as positive and as visible as you can.

– Instead of focusing on discipline, encourage peacemaking.

– If you’ve owed someone an apology, wait no longer.

– Demonstrate that you’re the kind of leader your employees will want to follow.

– Add a lot more to this list.