• BUSINESS PROFITABILITY IS DEPENDENT ON PRODUCTIVITY stemming from systems and procedures conducted by workers. Researchers consistently find that employees “tackle challenges more assertively and effectively when well ‘Coached’ – mostly a process which guides them toward self sufficiency and personal growth.” Four basic coaching styles are dependent upon experience of both the manager and employee, as well as the situation and task at hand. (1) For most leaders & managers, the default mode is Directive – especially when relative to standardized or repetitive tasks requiring immediate action. The downside, however is often demotivating to employees who perceive themselves being micromanaged. (2) When employees are experienced & competent, Coaching should be more hands-off with little or no supervision, and more as an advisor offering support when requested. (3) Most traditional style involves listening actively and asking open-end questions to guide the employee’s critical thinking, facilitate personal decision-making and enhance problem-solving skills toward increasing effectiveness; (4) The ‘sweet spot’ style is a collaborative approach combining guidance to foster self-awareness and empower the employee to make eventual decisions after considering all relevant factors.  Coaching key employees is a critical factor in business profitability & stability. DCG can help. [HARVARD BUSINESS REVIEW]
  • IMPORTANT: ‘DISPUTES’ INVOLVING BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS AND BETWEEN EMPLOYER /EMPLOYEES have notably increased this quarter, arising from varying post-election impacts. A reminder that if disputes reach a stage involving legal counsel, the time/ energy/ cost/ & stress (on business & families) typically becomes onerous, and often including expanded issues and risks.  DCG mediation support has a nearly 100% successful track record in rapidly settling conflicts (often a matter of hours versus weeks or months), at a fraction of the cost and disruption. If/when office or family conflict is headed beyond personal resolution, call Dennis first for courtesy guidance & support.
  • BUSINESS STRATEGY NOTE:  U.S. economic conditions are likely to worsen before they head up, according to last week’s warning from Leading Economic Index Conference Board, made up of ten forecasts ranging from building permits to stock market trends. Most reflect impacts of “policy uncertainty, notable pullback in consumer sentiment & spending, and trade war risks. However, at least labor market conditions remain solid according to the Federal Reserve Chair. [CFO DIVE]

THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK:

  •  An attractive and sustainable small home has been developed by another Elon Musk breakthrough, selling for $7,600. Meanwhile LA City government builds $800,000 condo units for homeless immigrants.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kxbIfIdz2-E
  •  Why there’s always room for dessert, even after a full meal, involves the “dopamine system in our brain that drives consumption of high-sugar containing foods which triggers a feeling of reward, resulting from neurons associated with feelings of fullness important for promoting safety.”  [NPR HEALTH NEWSLTR]