Courtesy is not consent. If someone is kind to you and answers your e-mail or a message on LinkedIn that does not mean they have agreed to meet with you, have a call or to be added to your mailing list.
Movement is not achievement
While almost certainly one has to move to achieve things, movement alone is not enough. Being busy is a “badge of honor” for so many of us in the United States (much less in other parts of the world), but is being busy actually contributing to your desired outcomes and achievements? When was the last time you have audited your …
Good ideas are polite
Good ideas won’t interrupt you rudely and unexpectedly in a middle of your day, during a meeting or a call. They will patiently wait for you to seek them out, to do your research, to speak with others and perhaps even read a few books along the way. If you are looking for change, progress and growth, it is up …
Be brave and honest, your future depends on it
Build your credibility as someone who speaks their mind and tells the truth even when that might not be “popular.” Remain professional and respectful, but refuse to blend in into the background noise and do what you can to get off the path of least resistance. Do what is right for the organization that you are a part of and …
Difficulties with dual reporting
You have two bosses? Not good! Here’s why. While I believe that all power and authority should not be concentrated within one man or a woman and that others should be enabled and empowered to act and make decisions, it is important to be clear on who is leading what area and who has the final say. Having said that, …
Work is not everything
While working, do your absolute best, but find ways to break up your work routine with other areas of interest and value such as family, health, friends, sports, travel…doing nothing. Yes, at times, you should do nothing, sit, relax and think about your plans and goals. Be intentional with your most valuable asset, time and don’t dedicate all of it …
Entitlement is for the weak
You are 100% in charge of your life. Furthermore, overwhelming majority of your professional (and personal) outcomes depend on you to a great degree (I know, I know…the environment, circumstances and luck matter as well) so stop looking for others to come and “save” you. No one owes me anything, and having this mentality has helped me overcome many hurdles …
Leaders speak last
Whether you are running a meeting, leading a brainstorming session or building a strategy for a new partnership, product or a service, consider speaking last and here’s why. As the most senior individual in that room or on that call, your opinion and thoughts will influence others and at times event prevent better ideas from surfacing. Enable, empower and expect …
Put it on paper
I have developed a habit of writing important goals, plans and thoughts on paper. While I also have major things of importance in digital format on my phone (and other devices), there’s something about taking a pen and a piece of paper and writing them down, one by one. It is this process of reflection, thought and planing that often …
Why you should work for free
If you are trying to gain awareness and enter new markets, it is important to get your name, your brand, and your reputation out there. Whether you are an army of one or part of a major organization, it is important for people to become aware that you and your services or products exist. Once they are aware of you …