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What Is Employee Engagement And Why Is It ImportantWhat Is Employee Engagement And Why Is It ImportantAs a Business Coach, I often speak at events, and it amazes me that most business leaders in the room …
Why managers need a sense of purpose to get them through the bad days Why managers need a sense of purpose to get them through the bad days Managing people is hard. Everyone has differing levels of expectations. The pace of work is increasing all the time. People …
Seven Ways to Create a Culture of Praise and Celebration in your business Seven Ways to Create a Culture of Praise and Celebration in your business When did you last thank a member of your team? Yesterday? Last week? Can’t remember? For some of us, it …
Why you need to get deliberate about innovation as your company growsWhy you need to get deliberate about innovation as your company growsIs bureaucracy starting to creep into your business? You’re most likely to notice this somewhere between 100 and 1000 staff. …
Headcount approaching 100 staff? Ask yourself these seven crucial questions. Headcount approaching 100 staff? Ask yourself these seven crucial questions. You’re a CEO on a mission. Over recent years, you’ve scaled your business with a sound strategy and talented people. …
Why regular conversations about career progression are good for your business Why regular conversations about career progression are good for your business One of your A-Players has just resigned. You only recruited them a year ago, and they’ve exceeded your expectations. But …
How to build psychological safety to improve performance in your teamHow to build psychological safety to improve performance in your teamThink back through your life. You’ve likely been part of many teams, either professionally or personally. Which one was best? …
Six important qualitative factors that will influence the value of your businessSix important qualitative factors that will influence the value of your businessWondering how ‘sale-ready’ your business is? You may have a clear exit plan with PE or VC backing. Or your …
Seven important quantitative factors that will influence the value of your businessSeven important quantitative factors that will influence the value of your businessThinking of selling your business?  Perhaps you’ve been running it for ten or even twenty years and itching to do …
How to tackle a lack of urgency in your business head-onHow to tackle a lack of urgency in your business head-onYou’ve just shared some financial data with the rest of your Executive Team. The auspices aren’t good. Your platform’s on …
What are the best metrics to track through economic uncertainty?What are the best metrics to track through economic uncertainty?Uncertainty continues. Only this week, the markets have been spooked by the collapse of SVB Bank and Credit Suisse. Fears …
The seven most common problems that could be holding your business backThe seven most common problems that could be holding your business backYou’re the CEO of a fast-moving business. All the stars are aligned. You have a strong strategy, white space in your …
stinky fishWhy you need to find your stinky fish before it poisons your businessAre your teams open and honest with each other?  Or do you sense they’re carrying around things they’re not confronting?  …
Why a Target Operating Model is the best tool to focus your team on what mattersWhy a Target Operating Model is the best tool to focus your team on what mattersYou’re sitting in an endless Executive meeting. Every week it’s the same. Each team member feels compelled to report the …
Why healthy conflict is a good thing (and how to build it in your team)Why healthy conflict is a good thing (and how to build it in your team)Imagine this. You’re in an Executive Team meeting. The discussion turns into a controversial decision. You go around the room, and there’s …
Why managers need to coach, not manage, in a fast-growing businessWhy managers need to coach, not manage, in a fast-growing businessStop for a moment and think. Call to mind a manager in your business. Someone who you promoted but isn’t …
Why your New Year’s Resolutions have already failed (for you and your business)Why your New Year’s Resolutions have already failed (for you and your business)The Christmas and New Year break is always a reflective time. In amongst the festivities and fixtures, there’s a natural …
Good to great7 important lessons from Jim Collins’ ‘Good to Great’Jim Collins’ books – where do I start? They’re some of my favourite management books of all time. You must …
Stop Start ContinueThe Best Technique for Feedback. Stop Start Continue.Do you struggle with giving feedback? You’re not alone. Many of the CEOs I coach find this difficult.  There’s a natural …
Five ways to make your business more agile (and help it grow through uncertainty)Five ways to make your business more agile (and help it grow through uncertainty)Volatility is the ‘new normal’. Think back to the heady, pre-pandemic days of 2019. The job market was burning hot, …
Simon SinekWhy Simon Sinek is fundamentally wrongSimon Sinek's Golden Circle of ‘Why’, ‘How’ and ‘What’ is important, but it’s fundamentally wrong. It is missing a fourth circle - ‘Who’.
Why focus is the secret to fast business growthWhy focus is the secret to fast business growthThere’s no denying it. It’s tough out there. Many business leaders who come to us asking for help feel exhausted …
The four super-powers that great managers needThe four super-powers that great managers needCast your mind back. Have you ever worked for a bad manager? Can you remember how you felt?  Frustrated? Despaired? …
How to turbocharge your sales team to achieve ambitious revenue goalsHow to turbocharge your sales team to achieve ambitious revenue goalsYou’re planning for 2023. There’s a growth target you want to hit, so you’re looking at the sales you will …
Six things you need to do to ensure business transformations succeedSix things you need to do to ensure business transformations succeedYou’ve invested time, money and effort into a significant business transformation. Getting to this point has taken dedication from the …
How to do more with less to grow your business beyond 2023How to do more with less to grow your business beyond 2023Inflation has gripped the UK economy. You’re looking at the New Year and thinking, ‘We’ve got to put our prices …
Top business podcasts of 2022Top business podcasts of 2022Last week I shared my favourite books of this year. Today, I bring you some amazing podcasts. I love podcasts. …
Top 10 business books of 2022Top 10 business books of 2022I’ve read so many great books this year, and I’ve had the pleasure of talking with some of the authors …
The five definitive steps towards creating an effective team charterThe five definitive steps towards creating an effective team charterYou’re in a never-ending meeting. Other team members are monopolising the airtime. No one’s making any decisions, and you can …
How to accelerate your business growth through value-based pricingHow to accelerate your business growth through value-based pricingDo you charge all your customers the same price? Be honest here. And did you reach that price by looking …
The seven main reasons businesses fail to transformThe seven main reasons businesses fail to transformHere’s a scenario. You’re the CEO of a business that’s hit a wall. The excitement of your start-up days is …
The five best metrics to use in talent recruitmentThe five best metrics to use in talent recruitmentHiring A-Player talent is the most significant difference you can make to your growing business. Because it’s so important, it’s …
Eight reasons why now is the perfect time to hire top sales talentEight reasons why now is the perfect time to hire top sales talentOnce again, the UK is heading into a recession.  Inflation is breaking new records every week. There’s no end in …
How to hold an effective skip-level meeting and what questions to askHow to hold an effective skip-level meeting and what questions to askDo you know what’s going on in your business? What’s REALLY going on behind the smoke and mirrors? Or do …
Why any fast-growing company should bin the nine-box talent gridWhy any fast-growing company should bin the nine-box talent gridDoes your company use the nine-box talent grid? It’s a core model beloved by HR Departments around the world. You …
12 Revealing Questions to Discuss as a Team Every Time You Review OKRs12 Revealing Questions to Discuss as a Team Every Time You Review OKRsDo you use OKRs (Objectives and Key Results)? They’re a great way to focus effort within a business. When life …
Why pricing based on value is better than pricing on costWhy pricing based on value is better than pricing on costSimple question. Is your business making enough money? No? Are your margins disappearing as inflation bites? Maybe it’s time to …
How to maintain your business growth in a world of uncertaintyHow to maintain your business growth in a world of uncertaintyUncertainty is back, and this time it’s on steroids. The UK economy is tanking, and interest rates are soaring. Instead …
How customer feedback data is just as important as financial dataHow customer feedback data is just as important as financial dataThink back to your last Executive meeting. Was there any discussion of customer feedback? If so, was this dominated by …
Seven ways to stop ‘productivity paranoia’ causing stagnation in your business growthSeven ways to stop ‘productivity paranoia’ causing stagnation in your business growthHeard the phrase ‘productivity paranoia’? It’s been in the news this week. Microsoft released the results of a major new …
What is the best meeting rhythm to optimise growth in your business?What is the best meeting rhythm to optimise growth in your business?Here’s a question. Do you spend all your time in meetings? Hour after hour and day after day? And despite …
How do you write a comprehensive business plan to grow your companyHow do you write a comprehensive business plan to grow your companyDo you have a strong idea of where your company is heading? Is this in the form of a business …
How an agile culture will help your business adapt and growHow an agile culture will help your business adapt and grow‘Plans are worthless, but planning is everything.’ These were Dwight Eisenhower’s words in a speech in 1957. It’s worth remembering …
Eleven proven ways to become a better CEOEleven proven ways to become a better CEOOpen your diary and look through the last week. What do you see? Is it crammed with the day-to-day running …
Seven reasons why you’re not recruiting the best people for your growing businessSeven reasons why you’re not recruiting the best people for your growing businessRecruiting talented people is the single most significant difference you can make to your business. It’s way more important than …
Eight tried and tested tips to improve staff engagement in your businessEight tried and tested tips to improve staff engagement in your businessTimes are uncertain. Inflation is at a 40-year high and heading towards 13%. The Bank of England forecasts a UK …
Eleven proven ways to grow your business through a recessionEleven proven ways to grow your business through a recessionHere we are again on the brink of another recession. It’s all so familiar. The media is full of doom …
How should you spend your valuable time to be a successful CEO?How should you spend your valuable time to be a successful CEO?Are you bogged down in the relentless grind of running your business?  Feeling there aren’t enough hours in the day …
Why size matters when it comes to your Executive TeamWhy size matters when it comes to your Executive TeamSimple question.  How big is your Executive team? Five people? Eight? Twelve? This is important because the more extensive your …
Why you need product marketing people to turbocharge your business growthWhy you need product marketing people to turbocharge your business growthDoes your company tend to copy competitors? Maybe you piggyback on the tech that others have developed? That’s not unusual. We see …
Why your growth strategy needs focus and depth on attributesWhy your growth strategy needs focus and depth on attributesLet me read your mind for a moment. I’m trying to guess why your business is different from your competitors. …
8 common mistakes companies make with NPS (and how to fix them)8 common mistakes companies make with NPS (and how to fix them)Net Promoter Score. Do you use it? It’s one of our top recommendations to clients who, like us, are obsessed with …
How to build a customer success team that will grow your businessHow to build a customer success team that will grow your businessFeel like you’re filling a leaky bucket? That’s frustrating. No sooner have you won a new customer than a couple more …
Why putting all your eggs in one basket is good for business growthWhy putting all your eggs in one basket is good for business growthHas anyone ever told you it’s a bad idea to concentrate on a few big customers? It’s a line of …
8 reasons why executive teams fail to set productive goals8 reasons why executive teams fail to set productive goalsYou’re CEO of a company that’s scaling fast. You’ve assembled a leadership team where everyone’s on top of their game. …
How To Make Your Startup More Successful With Lean Start-UpHow To Make Your Startup More Successful With Lean Start-UpCreating a startup comes with many risks; inherently, it is a hit-or-miss proposition. A study by Harvard Business School’s Shikhar …
8 practical ways to galvanise your decision-making8 practical ways to galvanise your decision-makingFinding it harder to make decisions as your company grows?  That’s not unusual. When businesses start out, teams are small, …
The 3 levels of psychological safety that are vital to business growthThe 3 levels of psychological safety that are vital to business growthThink back through your career.  Bring to mind the teams you’ve been part of.  How would you rate them on …
What are core competencies and why are they important for business growth?What are core competencies and why are they important for business growth?Have you ever drilled down into the unique abilities of your business? Or picked something that you know you can …
How to write a mission statement for a businessHow to write a mission statement for a businessDo you raise your eyebrows when someone mentions mission statements? It’s easy to get cynical. Too many companies use bullshit phrases …
Why finding strategic thinkers is essential to business growthWhy finding strategic thinkers is essential to business growthImagine this. You’ve been working in your industry for at least ten years. You know your customers inside out and …
Chief of Staff vs Executive Assistant – are you clear on the difference?Chief of Staff vs Executive Assistant – are you clear on the difference?You’re CEO of a fast-growing business. You’ve assembled a high performing leadership team with energy, ideas and vision. But you’re finding it hard …
7 ways to deal with bad apples before they rot your business7 ways to deal with bad apples before they rot your businessThink back through your career. I bet you’ve come across a few bad apples. People who were rude, negative or liked …
bad applesHow bad apples ruin it for the rest of usStruggling with productivity?  Ever stopped to wonder why?  Could you be carrying a few bad apples?  Look around any company …
Why strategic context is so essential to business growthWhy strategic context is so essential to business growthLet me ask you a question. What’s the best fruit in the world? Apples maybe?  Or grapes? I might be thinking bananas. But …
9 tried and tested ways to improve meetings in your business9 tried and tested ways to improve meetings in your businessWhat makes a shit meeting?  I bet you can give me loads of things. Endless waffling. Unfocused agendas.  No tangible …
Why ‘tours of duty’ are the best way to motivate and develop your staffWhy ‘tours of duty’ are the best way to motivate and develop your staffLet me ask you something.  When you offer someone a job in your company, are you thinking they’ll be with …
Why ’empowering your people’ won’t help your company growWhy ’empowering your people’ won’t help your company growEmpowerment.  It’s a real buzz-word.  Companies trumpet it loudly from the rooftops – ‘We empower our people’ emblazoned all over …
Why knowing your team’s ‘Working Genius’ will lead your business to growthWhy knowing your team’s ‘Working Genius’ will lead your business to growthEvery human being is unique, with their natural gifts.  The way we think, act and feel are individual to each …
Why ‘Ideal Team Player’ is the best tool for interviewing top talentWhy ‘Ideal Team Player’ is the best tool for interviewing top talentOK – so you get it.  You know that hiring A-Players is critical to your growth plans. It’s the difference …
recruitment10 ways to optimise your recruitment process to attract top talentWant to grow your business this year?  Then you’re going to need good people.  Hiring top talent is the single …
agileHow adopting agile techniques across your business will power growthAre you familiar with agile? If you’re working in tech, project management or software development, you’ve probably used this methodology. In …
Why it’s vital to plan for the inflection points of growthWhy it’s vital to plan for the inflection points of growthLet me ask you this.  Do you feel stuck?  Like all the fun’s gone out of work? Is profitability dropping?  …
How to differentiate your business for fast and sustained growthHow to differentiate your business for fast and sustained growthDifferentiation.  Everyone says they’re doing it. Very few are doing it correctly.  If you want fast and sustained growth, you …
1:1 meetings10 proven tips for better 1:1 meetings with your teamSo you’ve decided to ditch annual appraisals after reading last week’s blog. Congratulations! You won’t regret it.  Instead, you want …
annual appraisalWhy annual appraisals are a waste of time (and what to do instead)12 months have rolled past.  It’s appraisal time.  You’re sitting opposite your manager to talk through the objectives you set …
How to use Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) to drive your business growthHow to use Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) to drive your business growthIt’s the start of 2022. You’ve decided this is the year your business changes course.  No more status quo. It’s …
strategy 2022How to get clarity on your strategy for 2022Has Christmas given you some breathing space to think about your business?  Maybe downing tools and taking a break has …
Top Business Podcast of 2021Top Business Podcast of 2021I love podcasts! This is no surprise – I’m the proud host of one of the world’s top 3% most …
Top Business (and Non-Business) Books of 2021Top Business (and Non-Business) Books of 2021Have you read enough books this year? Any that made you think differently or taught you something new?  I love …
salary transparencyWhy salary transparency is such a good thingYou’ve decided you want to hire some impressive new talent.  They’re the A-Players you’ve been searching for to help you …
Want to grow your business in 2022? Then ditch annual planningWant to grow your business in 2022? Then ditch annual planningAre your thoughts turning to next year?  Thinking you need a new plan to grow your business in 2022?  Maybe …
Toxic A-PlayerHow To Deal With ‘Toxic A-Players’ Before They Wreck Your BusinessPicture the scene.  It’s Christmas in an M&S warehouse. A bunch of graduates have just been hired to help with …
single threaded leadershipHow ‘single-threaded leadership’ will turbo-charge your business growthYou’ve done everything right so far.  Your Executive Team are all A-Players.  Together, you’ve worked on a killer strategy that …
core valuesAre your core values a load of old bollox?‘Integrity. Excellence. Teamwork. Quality’… recognise any of these?  Loads of businesses use them to describe their company values. And they …
selling more to core customerHow selling more to your core customer will help your business growYou’re sitting in an Executive Team meeting.  The conversation turns to your customers.  What thoughts do you have in your …
labour efficiency ratioHow measuring your ‘labour efficiency ratio’ will drive your profits higherYou’re an ambitious CEO of a business with real potential. You’ve assembled a great team of A-Players and everything looks …
core customerHow to get total clarity on the identity of your core customerIf there’s one thing that most CEOs struggle with, it’s knowing who buys their company’s products.  Early on in our …
Value Proposition CanvasHow A Value Proposition Canvas Will Give Your Business The EdgeSimple question. Why do people buy your products or services? And not your competitors’? Do you have an immediate answer? Is it …
Power of OneWhy the ‘Power of One’ is the best tool to fix cash flow in your businessDid you know that a 1% adjustment on three levers in your business could increase your net profit by 19%?  …
cash flowHow getting cash flow right will help your business grow‘Revenue is vanity, profit is sanity, cash is king.’ Heard that phrase before? It’s probably familiar to you, particularly the last …
Activity Fit mapHow an activity fit map will set your business apart from your competitorsWhat is it that differentiates your business from others in the same space?  Do you know immediately or is your …
Value chainHow clarity over your value chain will grow your businessSit back in your chair and think for a moment. What is it your company does that really drives profitability? Are …
Friday PulseWhy Friday Pulse is the best tool for measuring staff engagementLet me ask you something. Are your staff happy?  Do you think it matters if they are?  Do you know …
Top 10 Business PodcastsTop 10 Business PodcastsI love learning new things every day. There’s always something new to discover and, sometimes, to challenge you to think …
Top Book Recommendations For Your HolidayTop Book Recommendations For Your HolidayAre you looking for some holiday reading? Summer is here and we all know what that means: spending time with …
Accountability7 guaranteed ways to improve accountability in your businessImagine this. Your team’s been working on a significant project for months. But unfortunately, they’ve failed spectacularly to hit the goals …
ScoreWhy it’s important to motivation to keep score, every dayPeople love to compete.  It’s hard-wired into our DNA.  Look at the Olympics.  Not only is it inspiring to see …
say no5 ways to help you say ‘no’ more than you say ‘yes’Do you get a hit from new ideas?  Does your serotonin peak when you think about a different approach? And …
objectives tasksObjectives vs Tasks – why knowing the difference will lead to growthYou’ve got a problem. Something needs fixing in your business.  Maybe you’re losing margin to a competitor or there’s a …
listeningHow listening to your people will power your business growthYou know the importance of listening to customers. It’s a no-brainer. How else do you ensure good retention and satisfaction …
Talent StrategyWhy you need a talent strategy to grow your businessHere’s a question for you.  Who runs your recruitment?  Your HR Manager?  Or is it out-sourced? It staggers me how …
Man Making Presentation to OfficeWhy Self-Awareness Is Essential to Successful LeadershipSelf-awareness is commonly associated with the desirable skillset for leadership, providing myriad benefits for businesses, from improving the company’s bottom …
VisionHow to nail down a powerful, post-pandemic vision for your businessWhat does the future hold for your business?  Does everything feel different as we emerge from the pandemic?  Is the …
Execution10 surefire ways to improve execution in your businessYou’re an ambitious CEO with your eyes firmly set on the horizon. You know your tech business has considerable potential. And you’re …
Why Looking After Your ‘A-Players’ has never been more importantWhy Looking After Your ‘A-Players’ has never been more importantAre you clear on the identity of your A-Players in your business?  Do they know they’re A-Players?  Have you told …
recruitmentThe Ultimate Guide To Recruiting Top Talent For Your CompanyAs a CEO or business leader, you have to make sure that your company has the right talent in place …
Why getting your people back in the office could be the best decision you makeWhy getting your people back in the office could be the best decision you makeWhen was the last time you surveyed your whole team about an important strategic decision you had to make? My …
strategy councilHow A Strategic Council Will Keep Your Business On CourseOK – so you’ve come up with a new strategy. The whole Executive Team is on board. The excitement is …
How to Get the Most Out of Business MentoringHow to Get the Most Out of Business MentoringYou may think that being a mentee makes you a passive recipient, but nothing could be further from the truth. …
growth trapWhat is the growth trap (and is your business stuck in it?)Feeling weighed down by your business? Or nostalgic for the irrepressible fun of those heady start-up days?  Do you yearn …
strategyStrategy vs operational effectiveness – are you clear on the difference?Step back for a moment.  Imagine you’re looking at your industry as a whole. What do you see?  My bet …
Why dysfunctional sales is at the heart of many dysfunctional businesses- and how to fix itWhy dysfunctional sales is at the heart of many dysfunctional businesses- and how to fix itThe Machine:  A Radical Approach to the Design of the Sales Function by Justin Roff- Marsh is a book that …
How Using Metronome Growth Systems (MGS) Will Power Your Business GrowthHow Using Metronome Growth Systems (MGS) Will Power Your Business GrowthTick… tick… tick… the sound of a metronome is very familiar to musicians.  They use them to improve their timing, …
Who are the top salespeople, and why you should not be paying them commissionWho are the top salespeople, and why you should not be paying them commissionI recently wrote a blog discussing Justin Roff-Marsh’s approach to sales structure which he lays out in his fantastic book …
The 8 essential elements of trust in businessThe 8 essential elements of trust in businessShut your eyes, just for a moment. Imagine a world where you trusted everyone. What would be different?  Cars would …
Why You Need Clarity on Your Core PurposeWhy You Need Clarity on Your Core PurposeMany of the CEOs I work with struggle to find a meaningful sense of purpose for their business. It’s just …
7 Effective Steps To Increase Your Close Rate7 Effective Steps To Increase Your Close RateDo you twitch when someone mentions sales?  What’s your first thought? Sleazy second-hand car dealers?  Dodgy double-glazing salesmen?  Stealing lollipops …
exit planHow to optimise your exit plan for the best resultsNeed to ready your business for sale?  Or show equity growth to your investors? Maybe you’ve been running your business …
dysfunctional behavioursHow fixing dysfunctional behaviours will help your business grow‘It’s not my fault I missed my target.’  ‘There was nothing I could do.’ ‘All the world’s against me.’  Recognise …
10 proven tips for creating more effective OKRs10 proven tips for creating more effective OKRsYou’ve probably heard of OKRs (Objectives and Key Results).  You might already be using them.  Originally developed as a methodology …
salesHow to get the best results from your sales teamOK – here’s a simple question. Do you have a sales problem?  Not enough new customers buying your products?  Are …
hire salespeopleHow to hire an amazing first salesperson for your businessYou’re a successful CEO of a founder-led business. You’ve achieved product-market fit that’s showing great potential.  And you’re clear on …
Chief of Staff4 reasons why successful CEOs need a Chief of Staff (and not a COO)Why do some CEOs win and others don’t?  What is it that enables founders like Steve Jobs or Jeff Bezos …
culture disciplineHow to create a culture of discipline for growthFeeling overwhelmed?  Or frustrated by slow progress? You’re not alone.  When they first come to me, my CEO clients are …
Profit per xWhat is ‘Profit Per X’ (and Why is it Powerful?)Here’s a deceptively simple question.  What type of business are you really in?  Do you know where your profit comes …
Remote onboardingHow to make remote onboarding more effectiveOne of the biggest challenges of the pandemic is the loss of human connection. We’re all struggling with this, at …
Level 5 leadershipWhy you need to be a ‘Level 5 Leader’Humility.  Determination. Passion.  These are three characteristics of Level 5 Leaders. And it’s these qualities that set the leaders of …
Is your business still heading in the right direction?Is your business still heading in the right direction?Brutal. That’s how I’d describe 2020. And 2021 isn’t shaping up much better.  Here we are in our third national lockdown …
Level 10 MeetingWhat is a Level 10 Meeting (and why is it powerful)?Be honest.  Are your weekly Executive Team meetings a waste of time? Do you sit there, bored as hell, as your …
What is a daily huddle (and why is it important?)What is a daily huddle (and why is it important?)Do your team members have a daily rhythm of daily team huddles? Or are they so lost in the busy-ness …
How to write an annual plan for growthHow to write an annual plan for growthLet’s see if you recognise this. It’s time to produce your annual plan. As CEO, you look back at the previous …
How To Create A Culture Of Praise And CelebrationHow To Create A Culture Of Praise And CelebrationWhen did you last thank a member of your team? Yesterday? Last week? Can’t remember? For some of us, it comes easily. For …
Why you need to prioritise learning in your teamsWhy you need to prioritise learning in your teamsHere’s a question for you. How fast can you peddle a bike? 10mph? 20mph? You may know the answer because you’re an ardent cyclist …
Why high performing teams need to be flexible and adaptableWhy high performing teams need to be flexible and adaptableChange. It’s everywhere. Never have we existed in a more volatile world than the one that surrounds us today. COVID has …
How to build trust in high performing teamsHow to build trust in high performing teamsBe honest.  When was the last time you put your hands up and said you got it wrong?  Or admitted …
Why high performing teams need work with meaningWhy high performing teams need work with meaning‘Never let a good crisis go to waste.’ Churchill spoke these words during World War 2.  How true they seem …
14 powerful ways to boost your strategy sessions14 powerful ways to boost your strategy sessionsIf you’re a CEO planning a strategy session or kick off with your Executive Team, it’s important to be well prepared.  Particularly …
How to ensure dependability in high-performing teamsHow to ensure dependability in high-performing teamsAre you running on empty? Most of the CEOs and Exec teams that I coach are reporting burnout.  Remote working is …
Why high performing teams need psychological safetyWhy high performing teams need psychological safetyYou’re chatting to a member of your team. During the conversation, you notice they’ve got spinach in their teeth. What do …
How to build a high-performance teamHow to build a high-performance teamAre some of the teams in your business more successful than others?  Ever wondered why and wished all your teams …
How to grow your business with powerful marketing metricsHow to grow your business with powerful marketing metricsThinking of cutting back on marketing?  You won’t be alone.  In July this year, Marketing Week reported a record decline …
5 sure-fire ways to make execution more effective5 sure-fire ways to make execution more effectiveThink back to January.  Did you resolve to do something life-changing? Get fit or lose some weight?  How’s that going …
How to focus on the right things in your businessHow to focus on the right things in your businessFeeling stuck?  Swimming against a tsunami of demands with no hope of moving forwards?  You’re not alone.  Many of the …
The best tool for designing a growth cultureThe best tool for designing a growth cultureLooking to scale-up your business? Wondering where to start and how to put the right structure in place?  You could …
How regular rhythms unlock powerful growthHow regular rhythms unlock powerful growthThe seasons, the tides, sunrise and sunset. The rhythms that surround us give reassurance to our lives. When they’re interrupted, …
Why you need to be open and honest with your staffWhy you need to be open and honest with your staffTell me. Do you shy away from difficult conversations?  If someone in your team says something stupid, do you roll …
Why you need to practice to build a powerful cultureWhy you need to practice to build a powerful cultureAre you deliberate about shaping the culture of your business? Or does it evolve around you with very little thought? …
How to ensure clear expectations for all your staffHow to ensure clear expectations for all your staff‘I know what’s expected of me at work’.  It’s no coincidence that this is the first, foundational question of the …
9 powerful ways to unlock pride in your business9 powerful ways to unlock pride in your businessSetting high standards.  Believing in what you do.  Feeling part of a great team. These all come down to pride. People …
How to build a culture of responsibility in your businessHow to build a culture of responsibility in your businessSimple question. Is your office kitchen a mess? Do people wash up their plates and mugs? Or leave them in the sink …
Why now is the best time to change the culture of your businessWhy now is the best time to change the culture of your businessChange. It’s all around us. Everywhere you look, people are re-evaluating. The pandemic has made us realise that nothing is certain. It’s impossible …
Why is purpose so important to business culture?Why is purpose so important to business culture?Has COVID-19 made you re-think everything about your life? There’s no doubt that the period of lockdown has been a …
The 10 most important features of a strong and powerful cultureThe 10 most important features of a strong and powerful cultureYou know business culture is important. But you’re not entirely sure why. Or how to influence the culture in your …
What is culture and why is it important?What is culture and why is it important?Picture the scene. Marks & Spencer. 1988. A warehouse up north. 50 students have just been hired over Christmas to …
How to thrive (not just survive) after recessionHow to thrive (not just survive) after recessionIt’s clear we’re in for a deep and long-lasting recession. Only this week, the Chancellor Rishi Sunak warned that Britain …
How to build powerful momentum in your businessHow to build powerful momentum in your businessAre you re-thinking your entire approach to your business? You won’t be alone. The economic disruption of the pandemic is starting …
How to get your business back on trackHow to get your business back on trackIt’s hard to remember a more disruptive period than the last six weeks.  The global pandemic has caused mayhem that …
How to get complete clarity over executionHow to get complete clarity over executionEver feel like things aren’t running well in your business?  Can’t put your finger on why?  Maybe there’s no easy …
Are you measuring the right things in your business?Are you measuring the right things in your business?Concerned about the future?  You’re most certainly not alone. It seems inconceivable that a few short weeks could turn the …
How to think strategically through a crisisHow to think strategically through a crisisThe coronavirus crisis poses many dangers. Most obvious are physical health impacts.  But less apparent, and more widespread, are the …
How to make remote sales teams more successfulHow to make remote sales teams more successfulWeek three of lockdown and no sign of normality returning any time soon. People are starting to accept that we’re …
How to make remote employees more productiveHow to make remote employees more productiveUnprecedented. A word we’ve heard a lot recently. It’s been used to describe the restrictions to daily life, the scientific …
How to make communication with remote teams really slickHow to make communication with remote teams really slickWell – what a difference a week makes. It feels like the world has shifted on its axis.  The outbreak …
Are non-executive directors worth your time and money?Are non-executive directors worth your time and money?Running a business can be tough at the best of times.  So many unplanned challenges and obstacles facing you every …
How brand promises can guarantee unparalleled growthHow brand promises can guarantee unparalleled growthIn a frantic world where trust is hard to come by, brand promises matter.  They’re how people learn whether they …
What is a BHAG® and why is it powerful?What is a BHAG® and why is it powerful?Ever feel like you need an interpreter?  Acronyms are everywhere in business. They’ve become a language in their own right, …
How To Craft A Killer Business Strategy For The First TimeHow To Craft A Killer Business Strategy For The First TimeMade any plans for 2020? Feeling confident about the future? Is there a clear road-map in your business, leading to …
How to deal with toxic employeesHow to deal with toxic employeesIt’s so easy for corrosive attitudes to set in and spread like wildfire in a business.  Often they originate with …
Transform recruitment and manage staff performance with a job scorecardTransform recruitment and manage staff performance with a job scorecardI’m going to let you into a secret.  There’s a method that I’ve introduced to my CEO clients which they’ve …
Why talent assessment is crucial to scaling up your businessWhy talent assessment is crucial to scaling up your businessHow good are your team?  A simple question that often involves facing up to hard truths. If your plans for …
Want to improve your fitness in 2020?  Then get reading…Want to improve your fitness in 2020? Then get reading…There’s no doubt in my mind. Getting better at fitness has been a big part of my success as a …
Why your company needs a ‘talk trigger’Why your company needs a ‘talk trigger’Creating a buzz.  Getting people talking.  Doing something remarkable.  This is what you want for your business.  In a world …
How to create the right surroundings for growth (Rockefeller Habit #10)How to create the right surroundings for growth (Rockefeller Habit #10)You’re an ambitious CEO with your sights set on growth.  You want to scale-up and have a plan to get …
Do your staff know when they’ve had a good day? (Rockefeller Habit #9)Do your staff know when they’ve had a good day? (Rockefeller Habit #9)Motivation and engagement – the holy grails of any business.  With productivity levels languishing in the UK, companies need to …
10 ways to build a scaling-up mindset10 ways to build a scaling-up mindsetThere’s no doubt about it.  Scaling-up is hard work. It requires a sea change in management thinking and a whole …
Do your employees “get” your strategy?  (Rockefeller Habit #8)Do your employees “get” your strategy? (Rockefeller Habit #8)Here’s a challenge for you.  Tomorrow, ask your staff to describe your company strategy.  Could they do this quickly and …
How to bring values and purpose to life in your business (Rockefeller Habit #7)How to bring values and purpose to life in your business (Rockefeller Habit #7)Feeling a bit cynical about the idea of company values and purpose?  Think they’re a load of corporate waffle dreamt …
6 surefire ways to build a customer-centric business (Rockefeller Habit #6)6 surefire ways to build a customer-centric business (Rockefeller Habit #6)Criticism. Sometimes it can be hard to take.  It’s so easy to get defensive and try to blame everyone else. …
Want your business to grow?  Then you need to listen to your staff (Rockefeller Habit #5)Want your business to grow? Then you need to listen to your staff (Rockefeller Habit #5)Scaling a business isn’t easy.  It takes effort, dedication and a systematic approach.  You need to adopt new ways of …
Why nailing accountability is essential to growing your business (Rockefeller Habit #4)Why nailing accountability is essential to growing your business (Rockefeller Habit #4)Simple question.  Does your business have the right people, doing the right things in the right way?  It’s common for …
How to introduce a communication rhythm to your business (Rockefeller Habit #3)How to introduce a communication rhythm to your business (Rockefeller Habit #3)Rhythms are a natural part of life.  We’re all familiar with the rhythm of nature, the regular cycle of the …
5 ways to get staff on board with your quarterly theme (Rockefeller Habit #2)5 ways to get staff on board with your quarterly theme (Rockefeller Habit #2)Be honest. Is your business stuck in an endless cycle of unfinished projects?  Is energy being wasted by people going …
How measuring sales velocity will accelerate growthHow measuring sales velocity will accelerate growth‘I don’t have enough leads’.  Sound familiar? How often do you hear this excuse from your salespeople?  It’s pretty common …
How the right pricing strategy can transform your businessHow the right pricing strategy can transform your businessWishing your business was more profitable? You’re not alone. Many of the CEOs I speak to are frustrated. Their order …
An attribution map is what you need to nail your strategyAn attribution map is what you need to nail your strategyDo you have a clear strategy for your business?  Such a simple question but boy, can it be difficult to …
core purpose Dominic MonkhouseWhat Is Core Purpose In Business (And How Do You Find It?)What is core purpose in business (and how do you find it?) People yearn for certainty and meaning in their …
How CliftonStrengths® will help your business growHow CliftonStrengths® will help your business growEveryone is different. Fact. Our thoughts, motivations and talents are entirely unique. It’s one of the many fascinating aspects of …
5 roadblocks on the Scaling-Up journey (and how to smash through them)5 roadblocks on the Scaling-Up journey (and how to smash through them)Want to Scale-Up your business?  Feeling fired up and ready to take on the world? Make no mistake.  Scaling-Up is …
Using 3HAG Can Turbocharge Your BusinessUsing 3HAG Can Turbocharge Your BusinessHow using the 3HAG Way can turbocharge your business growth Tell me. Is your business strategy crystal clear? Do you …
What is trust in business (and how do you build it?)What is trust in business (and how do you build it?)Do you trust your colleagues? Do they trust you?  Simple questions that are loaded with significance.  In theory, it’s easy …
‘Nine Lies About Work’ – are they really lies?‘Nine Lies About Work’ – are they really lies?I love to read. To my mind, if you’re a business leader, you can’t afford not to.  I often hear excuses. …
10 ways for your business to make a good first impression10 ways for your business to make a good first impressionFirst impressions count, right? Everyone knows that.  It’s almost a cliché. There are various stats out there saying that judgements …
How to bring focus and clarity to your businessHow to bring focus and clarity to your businessIs your company in overwhelm? Doing too much but never seem to move forward? Time and again, I see this …
Want to scale up?  Then start praising your staff!Want to scale up? Then start praising your staff!Saying thank you. Noticing a job well done.  Spotting positive behaviour. These make a massive difference to staff engagement.  And …
Why you need NPS® to grow your businessWhy you need NPS® to grow your businessIt’s always puzzled me.  Why do so many businesses focus on finding new customers rather than keeping the ones they’ve …
What are the Rockefeller Habits (and why use them)?What are the Rockefeller Habits (and why use them)?Mastering the Rockefeller Habits to Scale Up your business There’s a reason why I rate Mastering the Rockefeller Habits. I’ve seen …
How to supercharge your executive teamHow to supercharge your executive teamBe honest. Is your exec team as good as it could be?  Are they tight-knit, collaborative and honest? Do they …
Why your business needs to put coaching firstWhy your business needs to put coaching firstLearning, developing, growing – there’s a reason these three words go together. You can’t have one without the other. They depend …
5 things that make executive teams powerful5 things that make executive teams powerfulThe executive team is healthy and aligned (Rockefeller Habit #1) You’re an ambitious CEO with your sights set on growth. …
Why the Gallup Q12 is the best tool for growthWhy the Gallup Q12 is the best tool for growthWhy this is the best employee engagement survey for scaling up I love the Gallup Q12 survey. It’s a fantastic …
7 top tips for successful recruitment7 top tips for successful recruitmentIs recruitment one of your biggest headaches? Many of the CEOs I coach say attracting the right people is a …
Want better productivity? Then prioritise happiness!Want better productivity? Then prioritise happiness!If you’re serious about growing your business, there are a few fundamentals you can’t afford to ignore.  Number one on …
How to build honesty and candour in your businessHow to build honesty and candour in your businessTelling it straight.  Being open and honest. Giving constructive guidance and feedback.  They all sound simple but are, in fact, …
The 5 core principles of successful scale-upsThe 5 core principles of successful scale-upsYou’re CEO on a mission.  You’ve amassed a talented team of people with energy and determination. Your business model has …
10 ways to turbocharge your meetings10 ways to turbocharge your meetingsAre most of the meetings in your company a waste of time? When I’m working with a group of people …
6 reasons why you should measure engagement (in customers and staff)6 reasons why you should measure engagement (in customers and staff)I’ll say it until you’re bored of listening. Happy staff + happy customers = profitability.  Simple! I think that’s all …
How to create core values with valueHow to create core values with valueHow to create core values with value “Company values”.  Two words that are often loaded with corporate hot air and …
Why Businesses with Purpose Grow FasterWhy Businesses with Purpose Grow FasterTimes are uncertain. We’re surrounded by turmoil and feel unsettled by events beyond our control. People have always searched for …
How to find the best talent for your businessHow to find the best talent for your businessThere’s a reason ‘Talent’ is first on my 10 Point Plan For Scaling Your Business. It’s critical. Nothing is more …
10 Point Plan For Scaling Your Business10 Point Plan For Scaling Your BusinessYou’ve decided you want to scale-up. You think your business is ready for rapid, significant and sustainable growth. But where …
rhythms for scaling up business Dominic MonkhouseHow To Find The Right Rhythm For Scaling UpEvery business has its own rhythm.  Whether it’s meetings, goals, budgetary cycles or communication frequency – all can be influenced …
Great business cultures rely on great storiesGreat business cultures rely on great storiesStories and legends – they’re everywhere at this time of year.  Cards, advent calendars, school nativities, carols – they all …
Why artefacts and symbols matter to a great cultureWhy artefacts and symbols matter to a great cultureBroken chairs. Strict dress codes. Dead flowers. Awful coffee. It’s amazing what everyday things can tell you about the culture …
How rituals and celebrations build great culturesHow rituals and celebrations build great culturesBuying the tree. Wrapping the presents. Singing carols. Cooking a turkey. It’s pretty obvious what I’m talking about.  Sorry if …
How to know if your business is evolvingHow to know if your business is evolvingBusinesses are changing. Fact. Gone are the days of predictability, forecasting and long-term planning.  In an increasingly uncertain world, businesses …
The One Page Personal Plan – How Writing Down Our Goals Can Turn Them Into RealityThe One Page Personal Plan – How Writing Down Our Goals Can Turn Them Into RealityWhere do you see yourself in 10 to 25 years’ time? Now, that is a big question, isn’t it? Have …
The Sabotage Exercise – How to Self Identify Dysfunctional Team BehavioursThe Sabotage Exercise – How to Self Identify Dysfunctional Team BehavioursDysfunctional teams, we’ve all seen them, and most of us will have been part of one at some point in …
Why Negative Feedback Is A GiftWhy Negative Feedback Is A GiftGiving negative feedback. We hate it, don’t we? Most people feel it’s one of the toughest jobs a manager has. …
Boring, Pointless Meetings? They Don’t Need To Be That WayBoring, Pointless Meetings? They Don’t Need To Be That WayHave you ever felt like you’ve wasted your time by being in a meeting? I bet there isn’t anyone who …
Follow Your North Star To Reach Those GoalsFollow Your North Star To Reach Those Goals  I’ve read a lot of books and articles about goal setting, and how important it is to set out …
The Importance Of Trust In BusinessThe Importance Of Trust In BusinessWhy is trust important? To understand why trust is important in business we need to go back in time. Back …
Why People Matter In BusinessWhy People Matter In BusinessIn business, people matter. Or at least they do until they aren’t the thing that matter the most any more, …
The perfect job advert — it’s just like dating!The perfect job advert — it’s just like dating!How so? Think back to the last date you went on (if you can think back that far!). How do …
Reaching goals couldn’t be simpler with OKRsReaching goals couldn’t be simpler with OKRsLet’s start at the beginning — what are OKRs? They are Objectives and Key Results. A process for setting, communicating and monitoring …
How To Hire Great SalespeopleHow To Hire Great SalespeopleWe all know how important a sales team is. If you’re not generating sales in your business, then you’re dead …
Shaking HandsRecruitment — it’s all about sellingI’ve worked with a lot of high growth businesses and I’m sure most of them would say the one thing …
A workspace is so much more than a space to workA workspace is so much more than a space to workGone are the days of boring, uninspiring, demotivating office spaces. We’re bombarded with lists of the ‘Coolest Office In The …
Isn’t it about time we re-thought sales commission?Isn’t it about time we re-thought sales commission?I know this is going to be a controversial idea. Some of you will dismiss it out of hand. But …

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