Maybe not skills, but habits: - Give glowing, public praise to the work and behavior I want to see more of, rather than complain about what I want to see less.

Maybe not skills, but habits: - Give glowing, public praise to the work and behavior I want to see more of, rather than complain about what I want to see less. - Perform the necessary rituals with a smile, and not reveal any worry about their lack of purpose / fitness for purpose. - Use videoconferencing only for presentations, never for substantial interactive discussion. (Travel, make the decision locally, or write documents). - Be away from my desk when I cannot tolerate interruption, rather than risk a curt or dismissive response to a tap on the shoulder. - Do not mention small problems to people who overreact (but do mention big problems when you need airstrikes).