Good communication in change projects
Why well-intentioned communication sometimes has the opposite effect… What makes change communication so challenging? As change managers, we are often asked to take on the communication in strategic projects. Employees should be sensitized to changes, understand and accept measures – and often a so-called “mindset shift” is desired. Deeply ingrained behavioral norms, attitudes and opinions […]
Myths about working from home – how to do it right!
The coronavirus pandemic has radically changed our working world. Many companies are now pushing their employees back into the office – often with the argument of productivity. But is this the right approach? The scientific evidence suggests otherwise. What we need now are tailored concepts for the optimal working environment for each organization. The productivity […]
How can medium-sized companies develop comprehensive HR work?
HR work in medium-sized companies often grows organically: the initial focus is on payroll accounting, with recruiting and other modules such as salary development programs or talent promotion being added at a later stage. But what is often missing? A systematic link between HR tools, business strategy and corporate culture. At Breitenstein Consulting, we see […]
TARGET OPERATING MODEL for HR – A medium-sized company perspective
The term “Target Operating Model” (TOM) is currently on everyone’s lips – especially in the HR departments of large corporations. The discussion is usually conducted from a corporate perspective. But what does this concept actually mean for industrial SMEs? Is it even applicable to them? A critical examination from the field shows: it depends. What […]
“But rather?” – A small word with a big impact
It’s easy to say something negative: “I don’t like that.” “I don’t want it that way.” Many people find it easier to express their disapproval than to clearly articulate their desires. As a result, it often remains unclear what the real issue is – what the actual needs and expectations are. This is where the […]
“What went well and why?” – A small question with a big impact
In our daily work, we often tend to focus on what is not going well. However, there is a simple yet effective method for changing our focus and bringing about positive long-term change: regularly ask yourself (and others) “What went well and why?”This question consciously draws your attention to successes and at the same time […]
YES and NO – two sides of the same coin
In our professional and private lives, it often seems tempting to respond to new opportunities and projects with a resounding “Yes!” But behind every “Yes!” there is always a “No.” A “No” to the alternatives that you are thereby excluding. This principle is crucial for effective time management, prioritization, and goal-oriented work. Saying “yes” to […]
“Not yet” – a small addition with a big effect
In our daily work or in interpersonal conversations, we often hear statements like “I can’t do it” or “It won’t work.” Such sentences often reflect blockades that seem insurmountable. This is precisely where the word “yet” can make a crucial difference. Problems are solutions that have not yet been found. With the simple addition of […]
Respectful Inquiry – The Art of Questioning and Listening
Leadership is not just about making decisions and giving orders. One of the most effective techniques for increasing employee engagement and motivation is to ask open-ended questions and listen carefully – a concept known as respectful inquiry. Why open-ended questions make a difference Open-ended questions address three key needs of employees that are crucial to […]
Start – Stop – Continue: Improving team meetings through targeted feedback
The “Stop – Start – Continue” method is a simple yet effective technique for evaluating and continuously improving team meetings. It provides a clear structure that teams can use to quickly and specifically reflect on what is going well in their meetings, what should be changed and which approaches should be retained. Three steps for […]