By Heather Campbell >> A growing criticism of MBA programmes in recent years has been their focus on the logistical side of business (strategy, finance, operations) rather than the interpersonal or emotional intelligence elements. This is a criticism that can be applied to many leadership development programmes too. The focus on developing leaders’ ability to build relationships and communicate well tends to falter once they are past their first role as a team leader or their early days as a middle manager. ...

By Heather Campbell >> Too often in conversations we try to achieve too much at a time. We are not satisfied with allowing time to share views and then working through these to find a resolution the next time we meet; instead we want to open up the subject and find resolution all in one discussion. We seek to cover ten agenda items in a meeting when there is time for only three. We seek to convince people to commit to a ...

By Heather Campbell >> A couple of weekends ago I spent a few days near Dunoon in the West of Scotland. This was my first visit and I was astounded by the beauty to be found in the surrounding countryside. While it is impossible to capture this fully on camera, these photographs show some of the breathtaking scenery. It was easy to relax and just let time pass in these peaceful surroundings. To help me relax in my more hectic, everyday life ...

By Heather Campbell >> As well as my Schnauzer, Dexter, I have a tortoiseshell cat, Lucy. She is a very elegant girl and always keeps her dignity intact. Lucy has taught me some valuable lessons about how to do the same. 1. If you make a mistake, walk on as if that was exactly what you intended to do. 2. Pay attention to your image – a well-groomed appearance is always in fashion. 3. Keep your head high and your back straight, ...

By Heather Campbell >> Dexter – my very spoiled and much loved Schnauzer – has just celebrated his first birthday. Over the last twelve months he has taught me some important lessons about building great relationships… 1. An enthusiastic welcome can make even the grumpiest person smile. 2. Assume everyone is a friend – unless they prove to be otherwise, in which case get out of their way fast. 3. Life’s too short to bear a grudge – the other person probably ...

Recently I’ve been working with another organisation to co-create an exciting new opportunity for leaders to develop their communication skills to an advanced level. (More about that over the next few weeks – so keep watching if you are a senior leader or business professional and want to polish your skills in communicating with bosses, peers and direct reports.) This project means that we have to work collaboratively, crossing organisational boundaries and managing diverse – sometimes conflicting – goals; thus opening ourselves ...