Have you noticed how much difference it makes having the right tools for the job? I have recently bought proper running trainers for the gym. Previously I just purchased cheap trainers that I could use in a wide variety of other situations.  I felt that gave me good value, but after family pressure I finally succumbed; and the performance difference has been a real eye opener.

In my experience many managers find themselves stuck using the same old strategies that appear to deliver a consistent result, and all too often the prime focus is on tasks and processes rather than people.

 A recent CIPD study has shown that UK employee engagement has reached an all time low, despite the fact that there are some signs that economic growth may be returning. It suggests that only 16% of public sector staff, and 39% of private sector staff, trust their senior leaders. I find this quite a disturbing statistic; and if ever there has been a time to check out what management tools we are using, and considering what...

 It seems as though some of the good news on corporate results and consumer trends is starting to outweigh some of the concerns. A lot may depend on the results of the bank stress testing that is due to be announced any day.