I'm teaching kids ski school on the weekends this year as a labor of love and have been reflecting lately on the how some of what I teach on the slopes is so applicable to management in organizations.

As a ski instructor. . .

As a leader. . .

• Do you understand each employee's skills, talents and aspirations? Do you work to place people in the project or job that best matches their skills or interests with the needs of the organization? Productivity can soar with just this effort alone.
• Do you seek different ways to communicate with your employees and teams? Perhaps a meeting is accompanied by a simple PowerPoint that includes pictures, words and charts. Perhaps, interaction is ensured and worked into a meeting agenda.
• Do you reinforce the importance of soft skills (emotional intelligence) versus technical skills? What do you do when an employee or team member is frustrated or discouraged to ensure continued motivation and productivity?
• Do you encourage people to seek understanding through listening to them explain what they have heard you say in a meeting or what they have done to solve a business problem? Simply telling someone what to do or sending an email does not ensure understanding of a task or issue.
•  Do you consistently provide sincere praise and feedback?  Although some people value reinforcement more than others, all people need it and will perform better with positive feedback.  

Here's to good snow and good leadership!