Productivity equals efficiency.  Yes?   Well, yes - by and large. But sometimes we need something else … something more. The recent problems with supply chains (after both the COVID pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine) reminded us that resilience is also important - but may use additional resources, and therefore be ‘less efficient’. In fact,

If they see employees laughing, some managers make negative comments which can be summarised as ‘You are here to work, not to have fun’. However, humour has positive benefits form an organisation. It promotes and strengthens social relationships; reduces stress, and even has a positive effect on people’s bodies. strengthening the immune system.  So, treat

One of the ironies of modern business life is that whenever anyone uses the term ‘industrial relations’ they are almost certainly referring to poor relationships.   Similarly, the ‘industrial relations industry’ is about handling (and dealing with the consequences of) poor industrial relations. So, how do we avoid the pitfalls associated with these poor relationships. Well,

Firms who wish to be fully productive need a workforce that is engaged, motivated and fully skilled. Firms who do not have fully skilled employees are, in effect, giving away capacity..  Firstly, of course, employees who do not have all of the skills they need to carry out their role properly will be slower at completing

Those managers and executives who have come through the ranks, maintaining their own diaries, typing their own words and creating their own presentations often find it difficult to adjust when they reach the dizzy heights of having their own secretary - or even an executive assistant. Most secretaries/assistants realise this and, in effect, end up

Is the future of work to be similar to the hybrid forms we have seen emerge from the pandemic - with workers attending the workplace only 2 or 3 days per week (or even less)? There seems to be some kickback from employers who would like workers in their offices more often - but there

Over the last few decades there has been steady and continual divergence between productivity growth and pay rises,    Analysis of historical data shows that productivity and compensation for ordinary workers grew in near lockstep from the end of World War II through the 1970s. Since then, however, productivity has grown nearly four times faster than

On Monday morning (or perhaps Sunday evening), ask yourself the following questions : What are the critical issues this week? What do I absolutely have to get done this week? What might come back to bite me if I don’t get it done this week? What does our strategic plan suggests are my priorities? Hopefully