Conducting difficult appraisal interviews: Why they are crucial – and how to approach them correctly
Too unpleasant. Too conflict-laden. Too unclear in the outcome. I used to experience this myself. Talks were postponed, situations were observed, another chance was given. The result was always[...]
Rethinking HR: Why strategy, EVP and digitalization belong together
The discussion around HR currently revolves heavily around topics such as AI, employer branding and digitalization. Many organizations are investing – but the effect remains[...]
The extra mile: Why it can't be prescribed – and is still controllable
Many executives talk about them. They want even more. And almost all of them ask themselves the same question at some point: Why do some teams go the extra mile – and others[...]
Why meetings destroy productivity – and how companies establish time hygiene
A practical approach to SME meetings are part of everyday life in almost every company. They are intended to enable coordination, prepare decisions and promote cooperation. In practice[...]
Employee appraisals rethought
How SMEs strengthen their managers and make development discussions truly effective Employee appraisals are one of the most important management tools in companies. Nevertheless, many employees and managers are experiencing this[...]
When AI changes leadership
Why companies need to rethink middle management now Artificial intelligence is changing the world of work faster than any technology before. For a long time, this transformation was mainly aimed at[...]
Sickness rate: No statistical problem – a management mandate
The sickness rate in Germany has been high for years – and it is currently causing a lot of headlines and political statements. But while there is talk about abuse, telephone[...]
When benefits don't work: Why companies will have to rethink the benefits portfolio in 2026
Over the past five years, German companies have noticeably increased their investments in employee benefits. Additional vacation days, mobility budgets, health offers, childcare, job bike, urban sports, benefits in kind or flexible[...]
Shortage of skilled workers in 2026: Why recruiting is rarely the real problem
The shortage of skilled workers will remain one of the dominant issues in German SMEs in 2026. But while the public discourse often focuses on a shortage of applicants, demographic effects or competition, [...]
Cross-generational team building
Why conscious teamwork is no longer a nice-to-have today "... you can't please everyone anyway - we will do without our team retreat in 2026." This sentence[...]