Category: Director Development
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Assert yourself for better results
Whilst some people can be naturally more assertive than others, there is an evident spectrum of assertiveness; from those who are decisive and take a strong no nonsense approach, to those who are more approachable, taking time to consider all perspectives and solutions. To become an assertive leader, you first need to acknowledge where you…
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Avoid these leadership pitfalls in the New Year
A good thought to have in mind as you start the New Year is that the best leaders are characterised by the presence of strengths, not the absence of weakness[1]. Whilst it’s necessary to focus on your own strengths, now is perhaps the best time to address those areas of weakness, putting you in the…
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Strong growth in the UK’s manufacturing sector
December’s Markit Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index has shown that growth in the manufacturing industry is going from strength to strength. The index recorded an index level of 57.3 in December which, although slightly down on November’s figure of 58.1, is far higher than the 50 index level which indicates growth. Markit stated that growth in…
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How can you prevent an information overload?
No matter how far up the leadership ladder you are, a major concern is how to keep track of the information given to you. Ever since the birth of email, and more recently, social media, employers have been overloaded with information (be it relevant or irrelevant), which swiftly becomes unmanageable. It’s easy to tell yourself…
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What business risk do you most fear?
In today’s globalised market place, business risks are no longer restricted by industry or location, and are thus becoming more complex and unpredictable. Here are some of the things which business owners and managers most fear. 1.Firstly come political risks. Political events can easily disrupt markets, as seen through the economic recessions of Greece, Portugal, Spain…
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What made Pope Francis ‘Person of the Year’?
Pope Francis was recently named Time magazine’s Person of the Year 2013, but what makes him so influential? Time’s editors make their decision by looking for ‘the person or persons who most affected the news and our lives, for good or ill, and embodied what was important about the year’, and the title has previously…
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Can confidence take your business to the next level?
Many businesses are currently experiencing increased demand and sales, which has in turn caused many companies to plan for expansion in the coming years, in order to meet demand. As this new found confidence in the market diffuses to smaller businesses, owners should consider how best to respond to this increase in demand. Begin with…
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Don’t miss out on business growth
A recent survey conducted by Lloyds Banking Group shows improvement in markets across England and Wales, with the strongest monthly growth in more than a decade being recorded. The survey shows particular growth in the north-west of the country in August, whilst Wales logged its best performance in four years. Respondents discussed the growth as…
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What is making you such a chicken?
Within business, many people let their fears prevent them from getting the results they want. People are often put off by things such as public speaking, networking, and making significant changes to their business that could potentially gain them positive results. Often their fears are founded on the fear of the unknown; people are unlikely…
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How to build a team like Alex Ferguson
Even those who don’t follow football are familiar with Sir Alex Ferguson and his achievements at Manchester United FC. At times a controversial character, he has long been respected for his strong leadership and the achievements brought about under his management. Football is now so much more than a sport; it’s a highly competitive business…