People & Change

Why Become a Manager?

Posted on02. Oct, 2011 by Shawn Murphy.

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Why do so many of us strive to become a manager? Some do it for personal achievement, money, prestige. Others are pulled in by the allure of making a difference. For another set of people its all the above. I suspect those who seek management for the first reason do so somewhat automatically; It’s what [...]

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Love, Leadership and the 21st Century

Posted on28. Sep, 2011 by Shawn Murphy.

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Love is a dirty word in business. Unfortunately the 20th century belief that love is unacceptable in business still has its uncomfortable hooks in management practices and leaders’ minds. For a New Era Leader love isn’t a dirty word. Instead, it’s a leadership act showing genuine interest in the well being of employees. It’s also [...]

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Wanting More Meaning

Posted on26. Sep, 2011 by Shawn Murphy.

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It seems amidst all the craziness in our world the conversation about having a more meaningful life comes up often. It’s a bright spot in these murky times without doubt. Meaning is a topic central to the book proposal I’m working on and how leaders can leverage this aspect of being human. Perhaps because I’m [...]

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Struggles Strengthen Your Leadership

Posted on24. Sep, 2011 by Shawn Murphy.

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With many companies sitting on cash, cutbacks, layoffs and canceled projects continue to challenge leaders to create an inspiring work environment and provide meaningful work for their employees. Today’s business environment is volatile, ambiguous, stressful. Without doubt, these are times that test a leader’s character. “How do I raise spirits in a low morale [...]

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When Leaders Say Sorry

Posted on20. Sep, 2011 by Shawn Murphy.

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We all have breakdowns in our interactions with others. In those interactions where you are the “perpetrator,” how you recover will strengthen or weaken the relationship. And in business, relationships are essential to doing good work. It’s vital for leaders to contribute to meaningful, trusting relationships. First, let’s be clear on a few terms. Breakdown [...]

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One Belief that Separates Great Leaders from Good Ones

Posted on15. Sep, 2011 by Shawn Murphy.

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In America, we live over 28,000 days in our lifetime. Of which we work just over 9000 days. New Era Leaders recognize the time commitment and see an opportunity. It’s not an opportunity to exploit employees’ talents. That’s what we did in the Industrial Age. In the 21st Century, leaders understand the time commitment and [...]

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More to This Life Than Work

Posted on09. Sep, 2011 by Shawn Murphy.

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Last night I read a short and thoughtful post from leadership blogger Aaron Biebert aka 8pm Warrior. Aaron’s posts are usually poignant and thought provoking. This was no exception. His message: “Don’t confuse your business with your own identity.” As a small business owner, Aaron’s words are spot on, but difficult to honor. I know [...]