Mark Ernst

A terrific manager has integrity, is a subject-matter index, is a good coach, doesn’t micromanage, and deals with slackers effectively. It sounds easy, but in truth, it is anything but.

Managers need to delegate. Delegation helps employees learn new skills and allows a business to grow. But delegation isn’t easy, and these six steps should help managers overcome the challenges.

If a metal fabricating company's CEO is running the plant or acting as a salesperson, who is guiding the business? For such companies, operating without a CEO can be a very dangerous situation.

Preparing a plan to develop the next-generation leader requires a comprehensive, objective analysis. It should cover where the business should go over the next several years, and what skills the next leader will need to take the company in that direction.