SmartBrief Article: From DEI to Human Connection

Michael Stallard proposes Connection Culture as a more effective alternative to DEI programs in an article published by SmartBrief on Leadership.

SmartBrief Article: Will Starbucks Return to Howard Behar's “It’s All About the People” Leadership?

In a recent SmartBrief article, Michael and Katharine Stallard shared observations about former Starbucks leader Howard Behar's connection-focused leadership style and how it can help Starbucks rediscover its greatness.

SmartBrief Article: 3 Leadership Lessons from the Eagles' Head Coach

Michael Stallard shares with SmartBrief his observations about Eagles' head coach Nick Sirianni's leadership style and three ways he fosters a culture of connection.

Connected Leaders, Stand Strong!

Leading with connection isn't the norm in many industries, but Michael Stallard and Katharine Stallard encourage connection-minded leaders to not give up.

Stress Levels Rising? Here’s How to Prepare

Feeling stress levels rise? Instead of diving in unprepared, shore up your foundation of connection so you can get through the stressful season in better shape, writes Michael Stallard.

IE Insights Article: The Global Stakes of U.S. Democracy

Michael Stallard shares the importance of connection-minded leaders in government in this article published by IE University.

Rising Above the Pressure in HR: SmartBrief Article

SmartBrief on Leadership featured Michael and Katharine Stallard's advice for HR professionals struggling with the field's many recent pressures.

Mental Selling Podcast Appearance: Why Connection Matters in Sales

Michael Stallard explains how to create a sales team culture where everyone thrives.

SmartBrief on Leadership Article: Costco's Approach to Stakeholder Capitalism

Michael Stallard's recent article for SmartBrief on Leadership explains how Costco's stakeholder capitalism model has contributed to its success.

Satya Nadella Prepares Microsoft for Rapids of the Fourth Industrial Revolution

Satya Nadella exemplifies a leader who is intentional about creating a culture of human connection that fosters both task excellence and relationship excellence.

SmartBrief on Leadership Article: Managing Political Divisions in the Workplace

Michael Stallard shares recommendations with SmartBrief on Leadership readers on how to manage political division and low employee engagement in the workplace.

The Perils of Charisma Without Character in Leadership

Charisma is a bonus, not an essential trait for effective leadership. Here's what is truly essential for long-term success.

Declining Employee Engagement Signals an Opportunity

Gallup Research recently issued a red flag about employee engagement. Here's why it's an opportunity for leaders who foster Connection Cultures.

Share First, Listen Second: A Guide for Incoming Leaders

How can incoming leaders get off to a strong start? Share first and then listen. Here's why this approach works.

IE Insights Article: Human Connection in the Age of AI

Michael Stallard and Katharine Stallard shared their observations about human connection in the age of AI with IE Insights, a publication of IE University in Spain.

Three Tips to Draw Employees Back to the Office

If you want to draw people back to the office, build a Connection Culture, writes Michael Stallard. Here's three tips to get started.

People First… Love Them Up!

“People first… Love ‘em up” is one of the foundational expected behaviors that Alan Mulally designed and employed at Boeing and Ford. Here's what it means for leaders.

Leaders’ Biggest Mistake in Q1: the Communication Illusion Trap

Many leaders fall into the communication illusion trap at the beginning of the year. Michael Stallard explains how to avoid it.

Lessons from Holiday Movies: Why We Need More Leaders like George Bailey than Ebenezer Scrooge and Henry Potter

Classic holiday movies can actually teach us a lot about leadership, write Michael Stallard and Katharine Stallard.

Yale New Haven Health Team Credits Connection With Record Results

Watch as a team at Yale New Haven Health explain the "a-ha" moment when they realized that Connection Culture principles helped drive record patient outcomes.

A Practice to Finish the Year Strong

The end of each year brings an opportunity to foster connection around shared goals and motivate your team to reach the finish line. Here's how.

Connection Heals Trauma

Trauma has far reaching consequences, but simple acts of connection can make a difference. Here's a helpful summary on what you need to know.

Missing from the Oppenheimer Movie: The Connection Catalyst

The Oppenheimer movie left out one crucial detail that contributed to the success of the Manhattan Project, writes Michael Stallard.

Summer Reading to Change You for the Better

Experiencing the trials and triumphs of others through a book can actually change you for the better. Michael Stallard shares three non-fiction books perfect for summer reading.

Are You Relationally Hydrated or Dehydrated?

As Katharine P. Stallard reflects, our need for connection shares some similarities with our body’s need for water. Here's some advice for meeting both needs.

Healing Our Workplaces through Cultures of Connection

The U.S. Surgeon General's office published a historic advisory on the importance of building cultures of connection. Check out our synopsis.

With a Little Help from My Friends

Michael Stallard reflects on how an unexpected event reminded him of the value of investing in supportive relationships.

Rekindling the Inner Flame in Others, and in Ourselves

When your inner flame begins to dim, positive connection with others can rekindle it as former Campbell's Soup CEO Doug Conant experienced.

Cultivating a Culture of Connection at Home

Connection Cultures are more than an employee engagement tool. They can also help families to thrive. Here's how.

Frances Hesselbein: A Leader of Leaders, Who Cared For People First

The late Frances Hesselbein was a legendary leader. Michael Stallard reflects on what set her apart.

7 Connection Killers to Avoid

If you want to build a Connection Culture in your organization, then you need to avoid these seven common "connection killers."

You May Be the Most Important Person in Your Co-worker’s Life

Yes, it’s true. You may be the most important person in your co-worker’s life. Here are three simple actions you can take to help them feel like they belong.

Employ Mindfulness to Give the Gifts of Connection and Contentment

Being truly present enables you to better connect with others. Michael Stallard shares a mindfulness technique that can help and the science behind it.

Connection Tip: Be Present

Want to be a better connector to grow in your career? In this video, Katie Stallard, a partner at Connection Culture Group, shares tips on being present in conversations.

Resilience Is Rooted in Human Connection

Just as trees that share root systems are more resilient, you need healthy human connection in your life to weather life's storms, writes Michael Stallard.

Extraordinary Opportunity to Win the War for Talent

With just 1 in 10 jobs considered to be a great job, employers have a tremendous opportunity to win the war for talent by taking these three steps, writes Michael Stallard.

Campbell's Turnaround Recipe: Measure Work Culture and Hold Leaders Accountable

Doug Conant's approach to leading a turnaround at Campbell's illustrates the value of using surveys to measure engagement and hold leaders accountable, writes Michael Stallard.

7 Team-Strengthening Practices from Steph Curry’s Playbook

In addition to his prowess on the basketball court, Steph Curry has a second superpower: his ability to connect. Here are 7 practices we can apply from the superstar’s playbook.

How to Inspire the Next Generation

America's youth are facing some tough challenges. Michael Stallard reflects on how individuals and institutions can help.

Reduce Mass Shootings Through Human Connection

As society grapples with how to reduce incidents of mass shootings, Michael Stallard argues that connection is part of the solution. Here's why.

Michael Stallard Appears on Beltway Broadcast Episode Hosted by Metro DC Chapter of ATD

Catch Michael Stallard's tips for supercharging your career with connection in this new episode of the Beltway Broadcast.

Now Is a Critical Time to Create an Upward Spiral of Positivity

Rising negative emotions may be contributing to the Great Resignation, but stimulating positive emotions through connection can improve engagement and performance.

I’ve Led Hybrid Teams for 15 Years – Here’s the Truth About What Works

From fostering connection to navigating in-office schedules, Randy Conley shares what works when leading hybrid teams in the workplace.

Former Best Buy CEO Discovers the “Magic” of Connection

Hubert Joly led a dramatic turnaround of Best Buy from 2012-2019. Michael Stallard explains what Joly's story illustrates about the power of connection.

Leadership’s Sacred Trust

When you accept the position of leadership, you will touch lives. That is leadership’s sacred trust, writes Wally Bock.

The Dangers of Being a Lonely Leader: What Putin's Story Illustrates

Could loneliness be playing a role in the decision making of one of today's most controversial leaders? Michael Stallard shares what the science says in a new article published by IE Insights.

Why We Long for Leaders Who Actually Care

In order to be fully engaged and stay with an organization, employees need to know that their leaders are for them and care about them as individuals.

Book Review: Simple Truths of Leadership: 52 Ways to Be a Servant Leader and Build Trust by Ken Blanchard & Randy Conley

Ken Blanchard and Randy Conley's latest book is a helpful read for leaders who care about people and care about results, writes Michael Stallard.

6 Ways Leaders Build Trust During Change

It’s critical that leaders foster a culture of trust before, during, and after a change effort if they want to have any chance of success, writes Randy Conley.

Join Michael Stallard for a Virtual Event Hosted by the Anchorage Society for Human Resource Management

Calling all HR professionals! Earn SHRM PDC and HRCI credit while learning how to address employee retention at this event featuring Michael Stallard.

Michael Stallard and Walt Rakowich Discuss Connection Culture

Walt Rakowich, author of the book Transfluence, interviewed Michael Stallard about connection's role in the success of individuals and organizations.

Hope Is What People Need from Leaders Today

As the pandemic rages on, many people are feeling discouraged. One of the most important things leaders can do is offer hope. Here's how.

Connection Culture Recommended as a Best Book for Business Leaders

Looking for some professional development reading in 2022? Wally Bock recommends the second edition of Connection Culture as a top business book pick.

What Kind of Leader Are You: Superhero or Human Being?

Superhero leaders ultimately cause problems for themselves and their teams, writes Wally Bock. Here's the type of leader we need instead.

Michael Stallard Interviews with New York City's WCBS Radio: Protection from Burnout and Suicide

Connection provides protection from burnout and suicidal thoughts, shared Michael Stallard in a recent interview with New York City's WCBS Radio.

When Grit Isn’t Enough: Protection from Burnout and Suicide

During sustained periods of stress and loneliness, grit alone isn't sufficient to protect against burnout and suicidal thoughts. Human connection can help.

Pat Farnack Interviews Michael Stallard About Brutal Honesty in the Workplace

Michael Stallard spoke with Pat Farnack on WCBS Newsradio 880 in New York City about why brutal honesty doesn't belong in the workplace.

Hard Things Effective Leaders Must Do

Some of the hardest aspects of leadership involve people. Wally Bock shares important advice for improving your soft skills.

5 Strategies for Building High Trust, High Performing Teams

The most successful and high-performing teams are built on trust, writes Randy Conley. Here are five strategies to establish high levels of trust.

Celebrate Moments of Resilience

By celebrating moments of resilience, we help people stay connected to the team and persevere through the inevitable challenging seasons, write Brandon Kozar, Katharine Stallard, and Michael Stallard.

The Gentle Art of Asking Questions

Asking questions is a great way to connect and is a valuable career skill. Wally Bock shares tips for mastering the art of asking questions.

TD Magazine Features Michael Stallard's Recommendations on Emotional Compensation

The October 2021 issue of TD Magazine shines a spotlight on the importance of emotional compensation during this year's "Great Resignation."

Michael Stallard Interviewed for Kathy Caprino's Forbes Column

Kathy Caprino interviewed Michael Stallard for a Forbes column on how to retain employees during the "Great Resignation."

The 1 Thing Leaders Agree is Critically Important for Success, Yet Few Have a Plan to Achieve It

Nearly all leaders agree that building employee trust is critical, but few address it. Randy Conley shares four ways to build trust.

Terryberry to Host Michael Stallard in September 21 Webinar

Struggling with employee retention? Michael Stallard will share strategies for success at an upcoming Terryberry webinar.

Michael Stallard to Speak at Virtual LeaderCon

Hear Connection Culture Group's Michael Lee Stallard at the 2021 Virtual LeaderCon on September 24.

Michael Stallard Discusses Employee Retention Strategies With Pat Farnack

Michael Stallard appeared on WCBS Newsradio 880 to discuss employee retention strategies in today's environment.

3 Things Effective Leaders Do

If you want to be an effective leader, then you need to do these three things, writes Wally Bock.

Lasting Change = Head Knowledge + Heart Knowledge

To create lasting change in your organizational culture, people need to embrace it with both their heads and their hearts, write Michael and Katie Stallard.

GovExec Daily Podcast on Emotional Compensation’s Role in Employee Retention

Michael Stallard explored emotional compensation's role in employee retention in a recent episode of the GovExec Daily podcast.

Connection Culture Cited in PM Magazine

PM Magazine, a publication of the International City/County Managers Association (ICMA), recently cited the Connection Culture framework as an example of factors that lead to government effectiveness.

Learn About the Power of Connection at the ATD 2021 International Conference

Join Michael Stallard at the ATD 2021 International Conference to learn how connection boosts creativity and innovation.

5 Actions to Keep Culture Alive and Thriving

Nurturing your organization's culture is like tending to a garden, writes Paul LaRue. It requires constant care to ensure that everyone thrives.

To Cope with Labor Shortage, Raise Emotional Compensation

Is "emotional compensation" the key to attracting and retaining talent in today's tight labor market? Michael Stallard explains why it matters.

Michael Stallard Shares Tips With IE Insights for Navigating the Return to the Office

In this video produced by IE Insights, Michael Stallard shares what managers can expect when employees return to the office.

Michael Stallard Interviewed by Lee Newman, Dean of IE Business School in Spain

Lee Newman, Dean of IE Business School in Spain, interviewed Michael Stallard about the importance of connection coming out of the pandemic.

5 Ways You Undermine Trust in Your Leadership

When leaders are trusted by their followers, anything is possible. Randy Conley shares five behaviors that leaders should avoid to preserve trust.

Preparing for Re-entry into the Physical Workplace: Lessons from NASA

Re-entering the workplace after a long period of social isolation is something NASA astronauts have done for decades. Michael Stallard shares lessons we can learn.

Acing the Interview: What Hiring Managers and Applicants Need to Know About Management Style Questions

Whether you are the job applicant or the hiring manager, you can and should be prepared to discuss management style and the relational culture of the team during the interview process, writes Katie Russell.

Michael Stallard Appears on GRACE Under Pressure Podcast Hosted by John Baldoni

Internationally known leadership expert John Baldoni interviewed Michael Stallard for the GRACE Under Pressure podcast.

GovExec Daily Podcast Appearance: Workplace Culture and the Return to Offices

The GovExec Daily podcast featured Connection Culture Group's Michael Stallard in a conversation about how workplace culture may influence employees' decisions to return.

5 Things You Can Do to Be a Better Boss

Research shows that thirty to sixty percent of bosses fail. Wally Bock shares five things you can do to beat the odds.

Hope Employees Will Return to the Office? Start Here.

If employers hope to convince employees to return to the office after the pandemic, then fostering a connection culture will be essential writes Michael Stallard.

What Assumptions Are You Making?

The assumptions we make about others are often the source of conflict in work relationships. Mary Jo Asmus shares three common assumptions that leaders need to question.

GovExec Daily Podcast Appearance: The Utility of Breaks and Breakdowns

Michael and Katie Stallard explained the wisdom of giving yourself time for a break - or even a breakdown - in a GovExec Daily podcast interview.

TD Magazine Features Michael and Katie Stallard's Article on Innovation

Innovation is on the decline, but it doesn't have to be that way. Michael and Katie Stallard explain why in a new article published by TD magazine.

Having an Old-fashioned Nervous Breakdown Might Be a Good Thing

The term "nervous breakdown" may have fallen out of common use, but Michael and Katie Stallard write that taking a break to recharge may be what today's workers need.

Michael Stallard Appears on GovExec Daily Podcast

GovExec Daily hosted Michael Stallard for a conversation about a creative approach to engaging remote team members: bringing back show and tell.

The 4 Behaviors Guaranteed to Destroy Relationships

Avoid sabotaging work relationships...and your career...by steering clear of these four destructive behaviors, writes Randy Conley.

Michael Stallard Featured on Finding Brave Podcast

Michael Stallard joined Kathy Caprino for a candid conversation about combatting the rising stress and loneliness of the pandemic in the latest episode of the Finding Brave podcast.

Connect Your Remote Team Through Personal Knowledge

Personal knowledge can be a powerful connector, but it can be tough to help remote workers to connect. Learn two approaches for boosting engagement.

3 Common Leadership Myths About Burnout – And What to Think Instead

There are a lot of myths about burnout that get in the way of truly addressing the problem, writes Suzi McAlpine. Here's what leaders need to do instead.

Leadership: Over the Hills and Far Away

As leaders manage remote teams, it may feel like employees are "over the hills and far away." Wally Bock shares three reminders for leading in a remote environment.

Thriving Through the Ongoing Pandemic

What characteristics do people who are thriving through the pandemic have in common? Michael Lee Stallard explains.

Hear Michael Lee Stallard at These February Conferences

Michael Lee Stallard will be a keynote speaker at two virtual conferences designed for professionals in the higher education and human resources fields.

Michael Lee Stallard Featured in getAbstract Webinar

Michael Lee Stallard talked about remote work, rising stress, and the critical need for connection in a recent getAbstract webinar.

Stop Enabling the Workplace Bully

Many leaders put up with workplace bullies because the bully produces results, but that approach ultimately harms the culture of the organization reminds Paul LaRue.

The Role Connection Plays in a Democracy

Connection is what allows our society to function as "we, the people," writes Michael Lee Stallard. Here's how we can strengthen that connection in 2021.

Connection Culture Course Among LinkedIn Learning’s Most Popular

The LinkedIn Learning course on Connection Culture featuring Michael Lee Stallard is now one of the platform's most popular courses. Here's how to access it for free.

Your Purpose Doesn’t Need to be Earth-Saving

Every team needs a purpose, but don't fall into the trap of overthinking what that purpose is, reminds Wally Bock.