November 10, 2026 · First written 2010
Being Paisley: Still True, Still Me
Fifteen years later, the best career advice I ever got still holds: be paisley. Not everyone will like the way you work. Find the people who do, and get on with it.
Insights
Essays on work, management, and the people side of a company — written to be useful, not decorative.
November 10, 2026 · First written 2011
Candy Bowl Science
Most people will not walk into the boss's office — or HR — to tell you the truth. A full bowl of decent chocolate will teach you more about your team than another survey.
November 10, 2026 · First written 2011
Two Sticks: A Parable for New Leaders
If you walk in with a lighter and skip how they already make the fire, the village will eat you — especially if you are right. Learn their way first, then improve it.
November 10, 2026 · First written 2010
Why Companies Have Stupid Policies
Most ridiculous workplace policies started as a good idea. Then a few people wrecked it for everyone else, HR got blamed, and a three-page rule appeared.