Forward Thinking
Welcome to Forward Thinking, where we explore the ideas, insights, and strategies shaping the future of leadership, organizational change, and culture. This is where we share what we’re learning in the field—what’s working, what’s shifting, and what leaders need to be paying attention to. Grounded in practice and informed by research, our posts are designed to help you think more critically, act more intentionally, and lead more effectively in times of change.
What Even Is a Research Associate? (And Why We Love Ours)
Titles can be tricky, but our "Research & Insights Associate" role is anything but vague. This post dives into what these vital team members really do: from detective work and data analysis to storytelling and translating complexity into clarity, powering our human-centered strategies.
Leveraging CliftonStrengths as a Manager
What if your team's perceived weaknesses are actually hidden strengths? This post shares a personal journey of skepticism to belief in CliftonStrengths, revealing how understanding individual talents can transform management, delegation, and team dynamics for greater empathy and productivity.
You Don’t Need a Vendor. You Need a Co-Conspirator
The best projects don't start with a deliverable; they start with a question and a deep partnership. This post explores why true organizational change demands more than a vendor - it needs a "co-conspirator" who's invested in your outcome, your people, and telling you the truth.
Rethinking Team Dynamics with Personality Insights
Personality assessments are more than just a fun exercise - they're a powerful tool to overcome the fundamental attribution error, our tendency to misinterpret others' behaviors. Learn how these insights foster empathy, reduce friction, and build stronger, more understanding teams.
“No Surprises” Isn’t a Strategy: How Leaders Can Be More Clear Without Micromanaging
The phrase "I don’t like surprises" is common in leadership, but it often creates more problems than it solves. This post explores why vague expectations lead to stress and miscommunication, offering actionable strategies for leaders to create clear communication pathways that empower teams and build trust.
What Is Consulting, Really?
Ever wondered what a consultant actually does? We're pulling back the curtain to explain why organizations hire us. From strategic planning and leadership development to neutral facilitation and building capacity, discover how consulting helps solve problems and drive meaningful progress.
Group vs. Team Coaching - Two Powerful Paths to Progress
Coaching comes in many forms, and two powerful options for collective growth are group coaching and team coaching. While both leverage shared experience, their focus differs significantly: individual development versus enhancing collective performance. This post clarifies the distinctions and explains which might be right for you or your organization.
Real Talk on Remote Work
Remote work is here to stay, but it's not all sweatpants and smooth sailing! We're sharing our real-world lessons on how to truly succeed in a distributed environment – from building intentional routines and layered communication to fostering team connection and effective onboarding.
So, You Thought Summer Was Your "Off" Season? A Hilariously Relatable Guide to Actually Using It Well
Summer might not be the break it appears to be—especially in higher ed. This post is your refreshingly honest (and funny) guide to navigating the season. We’ll help you find the right balance between strategic projects, team connection, and real rest.
Managing Up Is a Bridge Worth Building
“Managing up” gets a bad rap—but it’s a critical leadership skill. This post explores how to clarify, translate, and challenge upward with intention, so you can lead across and up the org chart with confidence (not flattery).
Annual Reporting Isn’t an End-of-Year Activity
Annual reports. The phrase alone can trigger a sigh, especially as your organization's year draws to a close. But what if they didn't have to be a last-minute rush? This post explores why shifting your mindset – and your timeline – around annual reporting can transform it into a powerful tool for reflection and future planning...
What’s in Our Tech Stack (and Why it Actually Works)
As a fully remote team, the tools we use are more than just software – they're the backbone of our operations. In this post, we share a peek into our carefully chosen tech stack, explaining why each tool earns its place and offering practical tips you can apply to your own workflow.
The Power of the Peer: Why Group Coaching Amplifies Transformation
What makes group coaching so powerful? It's more than just a gathering—it's a dynamic, peer-driven space for growth. This post explores how learning through others' stories, sharing your own, and showing up in community can accelerate transformation in ways solo work can’t.
Mission, Vision, Values: Time for a Tune-Up?
Many organizations are charging ahead with big goals—but still clinging to outdated mission, vision, and values (MVV) statements. In this post, we explore when and how to refresh your MVV so it actually supports your strategy and aligns your team.
Escaping the Tactical Trap: Getting Out of the Weeds and Back into Leadership
Being busy doesn’t always mean you’re leading. In this blog, we explore the tactical trap—how high-achieving leaders get stuck in execution, why it feels satisfying, and how to shift back into intentional, strategic leadership. Includes five steps to get out of the weeds and lead with clarity.
Plan Now for a Successful Summer Retreat
Thinking about a summer retreat for your team? Don’t wait until vacation season to start planning! From setting a clear purpose to nailing logistics, we’re sharing expert insights on designing a retreat that’s actually impactful—not just another meeting in a different location. Read our latest blog to learn how to make your retreat a success.
Reflections from NASPA
Conferences like NASPA are full - of ideas, conversations, and the occasional long coffee line. This year, our CEO and Founder presented four sessions on leading change with intention, from coaching-driven team development to bringing strategic plans to life. Conference highlights also happened in the hallways, in quick check-ins, and in hearing how our work continues to shape teams. Read more about our key NASPA takeaways.
Goal-Getting: A Reading List for Setting and Achieving Goals
Explore our curated reading list featuring three must-read books that turn goal setting into real achievement. Learn practical strategies to bridge the gap between planning and execution -ideal for leaders and teams alike.
Building Capacity for Change Through Roleplay
Discover how immersive roleplay empowers teams to navigate change with empathy and resilience. Learn actionable strategies to transform your organization’s approach to change management.
Using the Enneagram at Work: A Powerful Tool for Self-Understanding and Team Dynamics
Explore how the Enneagram can transform workplace dynamics by uncovering core motivations and improving communication. Gain actionable insights and discover expert strategies from transform.forward to build a more cohesive team.