Pour Your Heart Out

Sometimes the easiest way to delight your mom is to let her feel involved in your life.

• Tell her what you are planning for the future.
• Describe the challenges that you are facing.
• Tell her you value her opinion.
• Ask her how she handled something...

Little acknowledgments here and there communicate to your partner that you notice him or her and are happy he or she is a part of your life. If your husband cooked you a special dinner, acknowledge it. If your wife had her hair done, tell her how lovely she looks.

Before discussing performance in a 1:1 meeting, check your empathy first. You want to add value and find out how your direct report feels.

• Does the person you're managing feel invested in your company or team goals?
• Does he/she feel as if you've got his/her back...