Should leaders always tell the brutal truth, even if it hurts feelings? I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately. We hear so much about how important honesty is in leadership, But, what about the impact of that honesty? Recently, I had to listen to a client relate her story of being ‘criticized’ by her manager. “She raked me over the coals, Daisy, and am ready to quit”, she told me. As her story unfolded, it became clear that her…

🚀𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧🗣️ We’re just a few hours away from the Mastering Workplace Communication webinar, and I wanted to send a quick reminder! Many moons ago I taught Business Communication at Sheridan College. Then the emphasis was more on grammar, letter and memo formatting, business writing and presentation. Yes! Public speaking was a part of the course! And one student was so terrified to speak, she had to be accompanied by her friend. That said, it was when we made…

You’re not getting promoted because you can’t communicate your value. I’ve seen it time and again: Someone does fantastic work but fails to showcase it during performance reviews or at interviews. They think simply doing their job well is enough, but that’s just not the case. Here are a few techniques I tell my clients to practice: 1. Know your numbers → Instead of saying, “I did a great job,” share specifics like, “I helped increase our client satisfaction scores…

Most people in leadership positions are bosses not real leaders. There, I said it. Governor Wes Moore of Maryland once said “There are people who have no job description who are remarkable leaders and there are people who have big titles and they’re doing absolutely nothing.” Sometimes we get bogged down by our titles rather than focusing on the work we are doing and the contributions we are making. Leadership isn’t about holding a fancy title or managing people. It’s…

Most managers never become directors. And ‘NO’ you’re not stuck at the manager level because of a lack of opportunity. I know this because I faced the same struggle, much like some if the clients I serve. It’s not about waiting for the right moment – it’s about changing how you approach your career. Here’s what helped my clients and can help you break through that ceiling: 1. Start focusing on how your work aligns with the company’s long-term goals.…

5 books that I have read (or re-read) this year that have helped me grow. (They picked me up when the going got rough) These books have guided my career and helped me become a better leader and professional. And continues to help me coach other professionals for their career success. Here’s a quick look at how each one has made a difference: 1. The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama → Michelle Obama’s insights on resilience and hope have…

Stop waiting for someone to recognise your value! Because they won’t… As I often say to my clients, “Sometimes you have to toot your own horn, so people know you’re coming.” As we enter the last quarter of 2024, allow me to reintroduce myself. My career has been all about taking risks and making things happen. A chance visit to the Canadian Consulate in Jamaica changed the trajectory of my life and career in many ways. My friend, who I…

Embrace Your Uniqueness! As I stood in front of the “Old Tree” at Hudson Yards in New York City recently, I was struck by its vivid pink colour and how it demands attention. You just can’t miss it! As I was reflecting on this striking tree, I thought, “This isn’t just a beautiful piece of art; it could be a powerful symbol of personal branding and career growth.” In a crowded job market, much like a forest of trees, it’s…

🔥𝐃𝐄𝐈 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐞 – Even Though You 𝐃efinitely 𝐄arned 𝐈t! I couldn’t help but say something on this topic. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, once at the core of corporate social responsibility, are now facing a growing backlash. What was once a celebrated movement aimed at creating more inclusive workplaces has become a polarizing topic, with critics questioning its effectiveness and even its legitimacy. Some organizations have even eliminated their DEI departments. It’s like one step forward, two steps…

📚 What’s on your reading list for the summer? I have always been a book nerd! As a child, my Mama knew she would find me under the bed reading when I didn’t want to do my chores. Here are some recommendations straight from the library of the Aspire to GROW Leadership Academy. I have not yet read them all, but page-by-page, am getting there. Here goes: 📖”Speak” by Tunde Oyeneyin is a motivational memoir and guide that combines her…