It’s my pleasure to host this month’s Leadership Development Carnival, sponsored by Weaving Influence.
The Leadership Development Carnival is a monthly collection of insights from top thought leaders around the world, and this month’s edition features topics related to business, culture, communication, artificial intelligence, career development, team building, and leadership. As with any good carnival, it’s best enjoyed when you immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy the variety it has to offer. So, without further ado, I present to you the December 2024 Leadership Development Carnival!
AI in Business: Thrive or Fall Behind, by John Spence
AI is reshaping the business world, impacting roles and decision-making at every level. Leaders can’t afford to ignore it. With AI’s power to streamline tasks and open new avenues for growth, those who embrace it early will set their organizations up for success. Here’s how to lead the way in an AI-driven landscape. (Connect with John)
If You Water it, It Grows: Cash Flow Management for Small Businesses, by Jon Verbeck
Recently, I spoke with a small group of business owners about my 4 Pillars for Small Business framework (explained more in my free booklet, Be Your Own CFO), and we homed in on cash flow. Cash flow isn’t just about having money in the bank. It’s about understanding where cash comes from, how it flows through the business, and how to measure and manage it effectively. (Connect with Jon)
Values Are Constant: Words We Use to Describe Them Vary, by Diana Peterson-More
Despite our collective shared values of treating others with respect, dignity and kindness, the divisive times in which we live have used short-hand descriptors to divide us. The controversy over DEI (Diversity Equity and Inclusion) seems to be one of them. What if we simply said, “we value others and their contributions, and treat one another with dignity and respect?” Read on to ponder more on the topic, and what I learned from students at two elementary schools. Food for thought. (Connect with Diana)
The Gifts We Miss!, by Brenda Yoho
December brings with it a flurry of activity—decorating trees, hanging stockings, and searching for the perfect gifts to place under the tree. The stores are bustling, wish lists are growing, and we’re consumed with the glittering bows, sparkles, and ribbons that will adorn our carefully wrapped presents. But amidst the holiday rush, it’s easy to overlook the best gifts—the ones we’ve already received, quietly and consistently, throughout the year. (Connect with Brenda)
When You Do Nothing, Nothing Happens, by Frank Sonnenberg
You can be the smartest and most capable person in the world, but without following through on your intentions and your commitments you’ll never achieve anything. (Connect with Frank)
On the Balcony of One’s Own Life: The Personal Side of Adaptive Leadership, by Dan Oestreich
Building off the distinction between adaptive and technical problems called out by Ronald Heifetz, this post addresses the personal side of the work to be an effective, adaptive leader. It is all too common to feel overwhelmed and stripped of personal agency, especially for leaders in the middle, where expectations to cope and to perform can be very high. The post points to inner and outer work needed to be successful under tough conditions. (Connect with Dan)
Is Development Feeling Heavy? Try Lighter Lift Learning, by Julie Winkle Giulioni
In a fast-paced work environment, career development can often feel like a daunting task for leaders and employees alike. This article explores the concept of “lighter lift learning” — practical, bite-sized strategies that make development more manageable and enjoyable, while still delivering impactful results. Discover how small changes can lead to big growth. (Connect with Julie)
Courageously Fearful, by Bill Treasurer
Fear and courage often go hand in hand. As a former high diver and founder of a courage-building company, I’ve learned that courage isn’t reserved for daredevils—it’s an essential ingredient for personal and professional growth. Whether leaping from a 100-foot platform or stepping up to deliver tough feedback, courage fuels success. (Connect with Bill)
Gaining Power in Your Career: A Guide to Getting Promoted at Every Level, by Dana Theus
Getting promoted is not just about hard work: While dedication is important, getting promoted requires a deeper understanding of how the system works. You need to be strategic and play the game effectively. (Connect with Dana)
How to Develop a Positive-Impact Organization?, by Marcella Bremer
If you are discouraged by the poly-crisis in the world, improve your positive impact. Both the organization and customers will flourish! (Connect with Marcella)
It Shouldn’t Be This Way!, by Ann Van Eron
In recent weeks, I’ve heard numerous expressions of frustration: “This shouldn’t be happening.” Whether it’s inclement weather disrupting plans, hearing of the ill health of a colleague, learning of a board decision you don’t agree with, political decisions, or encountering a slow driver in route to a critical meeting—these moments trigger a natural reaction. We often wish circumstances were different. But how long do we dwell in this state? (Connect with Ann)
How to Give Feedback to Motivate and Engage Employees, by David Grossman
Mastering the art of feedback is essential for motivating employees, fostering engagement, and driving organizational success. Discover proven strategies, frameworks, and practical examples to deliver feedback that inspires growth, enhances performance, and creates a culture of continuous improvement. (Connect with David)
How To Keep Going When You Can’t Keep Going Anymore, by Lisa Kohn
Lisa Kohn of Thoughtful Leaders Blog shares five practices that can help you (or whomever you’re helping) make it through tough times. (Connect with Lisa)
Senior Leaders Drive Your Culture, by S. Chris Edmonds
How do senior leaders sustain an uncompromising work culture? By living the organization’s values in every interaction — and coaching others to do the same. Here are five critical practices that culture-savvy senior leaders use to drive a purposeful, positive, productive work culture. (Connect with Chris)
Stress Levels Rising? Here’s How to Prepare, by Michael Lee Stallard
Many leaders are facing rising stress levels at the end of the year. Connection can help to mitigate the negative effects of stress, making now the perfect time to do a personal “audit” to pinpoint areas of your life that could use a connection boost. Michael breaks down why it works and how to conduct your own personal audit in this article and accompanying video. (Connect with Michael)
How Leaders Can Understand and Work More Effectively with Four Generations in the Workplace, by Sean Glaze
Understanding and working effectively with all four generations in the workplace is more crucial than ever for leaders who strive to foster a successful and cohesive team culture. (Connect with Sean)
Leading in the Midst of Differences, by Priscilla Archangel
Leaders are increasingly facing expectations to respond to circumstances and situations occurring outside the work environment about which their employees and society have strong and differing opinions. They can create and support a positive work environment in the midst of such differences by modeling these behaviors. (Connect with Priscilla)
