Morning vs. Evening People

http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/lifestyle/article-23852426-why-morning-people-rule-the-world.do

"Yet the research continues to mount, arguing that evening people have qualities which should be nurtured. They tend to be more creative, intelligent, humorous and extroverted. They are the balance to morning people, who are said to be more optimistic, proactive and conscientious."

We all have our perfect time of day to collaborate, work more efficiently, and to just get things done.  Can we use bridge these two 'time zones' so that organizations become more efficient and effective?  Simple things can bridge the morning and evening gap.  Things as simple as not scheduling meetings at 8am or 5pm.  Be aware of colleagues 'time zone' and balance your zone with theirs.  By each person being aware of the others 'time zone' you will be more likely to connect in meaningful and useful ways.

Based on the time of day I am writing this post you can guess which type of person I am.

 

Retaining workers

Retaining mature workers key to holding off job shortages

As I was reading this article (linked above) it struck me that the issues and tactics outlined to retaining mature workers really are the same that are needed to retain less mature (mature = older, less mature = younger).

The five steps outlined are relevant to all workers, not just older workers.  Employees desire to be connected, engaged, appreciated, and fairly compensated.  In return they will provide appropriate value and expand the organizations capabilities and collective knowledge.  The accomodations outlined for older workers are the same that will attract and retain younger workers - flexible schedules, training, etc.

Why do these supposed "experts" feel the need to create these artificial and incendiary classifications between generations?  This approach is divisive and counter productive.  We live in a connected world that is cross cultural and trans generational.  This calls for connectedness not generational segregation.

Emotional Intelligence in Business

I came across this white paper on Emotional Intelligence (EQ).  The paper is focused predominantly on the American male and paints a very interesting and bleak picture if things don't change.

American males (according to this paper) are rewarded for being impulsive in business.  What we need is to channel that impulsiveness through emotional intelligence so that we will stay competitive with knowledge workers throughout the world.

What is EQ?

• Self Awareness


• Self Management


• Social Awareness


• Relationship Management

EQ can and should complement quick thinking and decision making skills to allow for better decision making and action taking.  EQ and being a cowboy do not have to be mutually exclusive.

If we can truly tap our EQ, we all just might see greater productivity, and increased morale in the workplace.

American males, quit being a cowboy and find your softer side!