Shifting priorities and crisis management. Crisis management is actually the form of management preferred by most managers, or it is their not improve with age.
The inability to say “no!” The general rule is, if people can dump their work or problems on to your shoulders, they will do it. Some of the most stressed people around lack the skill to “just say no” for fear of upsetting people. Alternately, you can say, “Yes, but …” and explain what must wait while this new assignment is addressed.
Meetings. Studies have shown that about one-third to one-half of the time spent in meetings is wasted due to poor meeting management and lack of planning.
About the Author
L. Douglas Mault is president of the Executive Advisory Institute, Yakima, Wash.