A Smart Bear: On Teams

Being “in control” is impossible, perhaps not even desirable. Being “in command” is ideal: honest, introspective, agile, aware, and proactive. —July 2023 | 1,100 words.

When to prioritize individual autonomy, and when to standardize for global optimization. —August 2024 | 2,200 words.

Stop talking past each other. Translate between the three “languages” of customer desires, product features, and business goals. —May 2024 | 1,500 words.

Meetings are most productive when we create something that none of us could have created alone. Here are several ways to use meeting time wisely. —May 2022 | 1,200 words.

Traditional fairytale structure fits naturally in our brains, and thus can guide strategic problem-analysis, and a plan that everyone understands. —November 2023 | 4,100 words.

Everyone wants change, but doesn’t want to change. Though inevitable, change is uncomfortable and exhausting. Manage it with kindness. —August 2017 | 700 words.

If you want another pair of hands to screw things up, how do you acquire resumes, pair them down, and identify someone who is going to work well in your company? —December 2011 | 2,000 words.

Tech support isn’t just troubleshooting; it’s the face of your company. Which means it’s your brand, your positioning, and when it’s excellent, it is sales. —May 2010 | 1,300 words.