Research and observation tell us that the hard skills (quantitative, data-analytical, technical, specialized knowledge) are important early in a career but that the soft skills (influence, relationship building, political savvy) are crucial for later success, especially in leadership. This is clearly the case in technology companies which are heavily populated with smart people who have … Read more
The Intersection of Arrogance and Intelligence It’s good to be competent. Being arrogant, not so much. But they’re often related. Being smart, bright and clever often leads to business success. But having these intellectual gifts also means that one gets used to being right, being perceived as a good problem-solver and being valued by others. … Read more
Many readers of MPG articles and newsletters are also users of the eTest online testing platform. Having been incorporated in 1996, eTest was one of the first online pre-employment testing companies. It was created to offer affordable and valid assessments to augment the services of MPG. Over the years, it has grown by providing assessment reports developed … Read more
“How do we motivate Millennials?” It seems every client has asked this question recently, and you can’t pick up a business magazine without seeing some article related to this question. In an attempt to separate wheat from chaff, we looked at some of the recent research to see if we could glean a few insights … Read more
We all need feedback but few of us get the kind to really help us be successful on the job. And few of us do a good job of giving other people similar critique. The 3 x 5 conversation is a simple but effective way to communicate and to make sure we are focusing on … Read more
Wrapping up his first year as CEO, Eric feels that he’s just beginning to get his feet wet. He expected surprises and for the most part was prepared for them. In general he is pleased with the company results although there’s always room for improvement. His board has been cooperative and he has managed to … Read more
Although there are potential risks in the use of pre-employment tests, they continue to be one of the most popular and effective tools to help managers make good hiring decisions. If you currently use them, or are considering doing so, here are three things you really need to know to help you avoid legal trouble … Read more
Deborah has transformed one of the worst performing plants in the company to one of the stars. She appreciated the formal recognition as general manager of the year, but what she enjoys most is knowing she has made a real difference in the organization and in people’s lives. Although there was plenty of complexity and … Read more
On her way to a promising job interview, Maria can’t help feeling a sense of loss and disappointment when she thinks about some of the reasons she is seeking a change. When she joined her current organization, a nonprofit dedicated to improving local communities, she was enthusiastic and convinced that she could make a real … Read more
Bob had a successful early career in large account sales, and is now in his second role as leader of a national accounts group. His team sells complex systems integration services to the company’s largest customers. Many of his people have technical and engineering degrees. They are usually quite clever in helping their clients solve … Read more