Are You Saying What You Think You’re Saying?

In aviation, imprecise communication can cause confusion and error with dire results.  An anecdote that’s stuck in my head for years describes the conversation between a captain and copilot as they initiated their first take-off of the day.  The co-pilot was less than sunny, and the captain had extended an encouraging “Cheer up!” midway through…

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How Effective A Leader Are You?

Am I fit to fly?  This is a question every pilot is taught to ask themselves every time they approach an aircraft with the intention of aviating.  It’s a broad question that drills deep into the psyche and responsibility for self that a pilot feels and covers everything from their physical health to their mental…

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What Do They Know That You Don’t?

When I was first awarded my Private Pilot’s Licence, I remember one of my instructors commenting “Right, so you know just enough to kill yourself with now.”  It was a not-so-tongue-in-cheek reminder that, as proud as I felt of my achievement, what I’d also done was open up the door to the next chapter.  A…

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Profitability vs People – A Leadership Challenge

As the captain of an aircraft, most duty periods are made up of moments of high-decision-making requirements, balanced by moments of great appreciation for the incredible elements of the job you do – such as the view from your office window. One of the hairiest decisions you’ll ever be called on to make as a…

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What Story Are Your Shoulders Telling?

Communicating without words As you arrive at work, you see the familiar figure of a valued colleague walking towards you.  They haven’t seen you yet, but you can tell immediately, that all is not right in their world.  As their focus finds you, their face lights up and their shoulders lift a little.  You stop…

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Is Empathy A Leadership Strength or Weakness?

Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, has become a buzzword in leadership discussions.  Some leaders swear by it, while others dismiss it as a weakness. So, is empathy a leadership strength or weakness?  Let’s assess the pros and cons of empathy in leadership and explore its impact on team communication,…

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Leading Under Pressure

The role of leadership is seldom smooth.  By definition, as soon as we realise that we can lead ourselves, let alone others, there is a feeling of responsibility and desire to level up that can’t go unacknowledged.  On a good day, no matter what level or role we’re choosing to lead from, leadership requires us…

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A Deep Breath of Acknowledgement

Wherever you stand today is worth a deep breath of acknowledgement – and appreciation, for that matter.  Wherever you stand today is different from where you stood at the beginning of this year, and there have been losses and gains for you to be where you are today.  This is true of any year, but…

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