Make A Difference: Go Ahead, Get Close to Your People
Talent Plus
For some managers, navigating one-on-one relationships with direct reports may feel like a tricky needle to thread. You get all kinds of advice with a common theme that has something to do with “a line” and where you should draw it.
Our advice from Chapter 3 of Managing to Make a Difference is … erase the line. We say there doesn’t have to be a line at all and that, in fact, drawing a line can diminish your ability to motivate, engage and retain your top performers.
Listen in on our podcast on this topic, as Larry and I swap stories with our friend and colleague, Kesha Harris, about how managers who get closer to their people make a bigger difference for those individuals and for the overall performance of their teams and organizations, in part by inspiring the magic of discretionary effort.
On all our podcasts and blog posts, you have an opportunity to talk back to us through comments and emails. We hope to hear from you! Until next time, manage to make a difference every day!
This is part of a series highlighting excerpts from our new book, Managing to Make a Difference. Next up: Go Ahead, Get Close to Your People. Connect with Kim Turnage and Larry Sternberg on LinkedIn to see the latest blog updates.
Talent Plus
Talent Plus is a team of industry experts who collaborate to deliver insightful and impactful content. Our blogs are designed to provide practical advice and fresh perspectives, helping you stay informed and ahead of the curve.
Latest Posts: Blog
Blog April 25, 2025
Building a Better Healthcare Team: Nebraska Spine Hospital’s Data-Driven Talent Approach
Find out how Nebraska Spine Hospital partners with Talent Plus to enhance employee engagement and organizational culture.
Read More
Blog April 08, 2025
How to Manage Difficult People
Master how to manage difficult people at work with six effective strategies for maintaining productivity and engagement.
Read More
Blog February 27, 2025
Leading With Purpose: Seven Qualities of a Good Manager
Explore the 7 qualities of a good manager and enhance your leadership skills for greater team success and communication.
Read More
Blog February 15, 2025
First Time Manager Tips — Five Strategies for Success
Are you a first-time manager? Learn valuable tips and strategies to succeed in your new role and make a positive impact.
Read More
Scott C. Whiteford, Ph.D. 
Blog February 03, 2025
Personalizing the Employee Recognition Experience
Discover the power of tailored employee recognition examples to increase engagement and reduce turnover in your organization.
Read More
Blog January 14, 2025
Engaging Remote Employees: 4 Best Practices for Leaders
Unlock the power of remote employee engagement with these practical and effective activities. Build a strong team and boost morale.
Read More
Aaron Whiteford