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There's nothing more crucial to success in business than being able to influence other people. Salespeople must influence customers; executives need to influence their workforces. But rather than insincerely "laying on the charm" to influence people, try using your innate talents instead.

It's widely believed that those who get ahead in office politics must be dupes, stooges, or yes-people. But the reality is quite different. Gallup has found that among the most successful organizations, many people who get ahead are solid performers and highly effective in their roles. What's their secret? They use their innate talents to rise through the ranks -- and to master the politics of their workplaces.

Conflict is an unavoidable part of business. But it doesn't have to be too daunting. Here's how to leverage your innate talents to handle inevitable confrontations and arguments.

Dietitians at St. Mary's/Duluth Clinic Health System were at a crossroads. Their team didn't have enough people and felt ignored. Their workspace was "dismal." A few were quietly threatening to resign. Here's how one manager attacked this problem and raised employee engagement from average to extraordinary -- in just a year.