Learn the system and the rules of the game before you begin playing it. Same applies to your organizations, industries or markets. Learn what works, what doesn’t, how are decisions made and who is able to influence the outcomes and contribute to performance. Once you have done your homework, leverage what you have learned for your future actions in service …
Why relationships matter
Whether you are a senior executive with decades of relevant experience in your field or a rookie who started today, you should always proactively invest in building relationships and meeting new people. Go out there, meet others, provide value, speak at events, ask questions and most importantly, listen and learn from those who may be further ahead in business, career …
Delusional optimism
Being optimistic, positive and confident is always a better option then the alternative. However, it is important not to ignore challenges, problems and issues you and your organization (perhaps even the entire industry) are facing today. Delaying, postponing, deferring challenging conversations and decisions will almost always come back to haunt you with even a higher price tag. Face the music, …
Don’t avoid conflict
Don’t avoid conflict. Allow me to explain. If there is an issue that could lead to larger challenges and difficulties in years to come it is important to have it addressed as soon as possible. Walking around pretending that everything is wonderful, great and perfect 24/7/365 serves no one currently and is definitely of no value to anyone long-term. Do …
If it’s important to you, do it in person
When dealing with major projects, services, contracts…save time from going back and forth and eliminate any confusion by getting straight to the point, in person. Limit unnecessary emails and calls and get to the root cause of the issue and work on solutions together.
Share your thoughts, ideas and experiences
Share your thoughts, ideas and experiences. Don’t hoard them for yourself, as there’s nothing wrong with enabling others to succeed as well. There’s plenty for us all, so what you can’t or don’t want to do, share freely as it might help someone else. “Power is gained by sharing knowledge, not hoarding it” – Unknown
It’s not who you know, it’s who knows you
How many times have you heard: “it’s who you know!” as the reason or a justification why someone has made it or succeeded in some way. While it is important for you to get out there, network and meet new people, it’s even more important for them to know you. If people know you as someone who is honest, trustworthy, …
Surround yourself with amazing people
Promote, encourage and even demand learning and exchanges of ideas across your organizations and your teams. As I often say, best ideas must win and as such it is essential for leaders to create environments where it is safe to fail, safe to dissent and have respectful, collaborative conversations. Surround yourself with amazing people. People who are passionate, excited and …
Best leaders are approachable and welcoming
If you were to take a moment and think about some of the great leaders you have worked with (hopefully you were fortunate enough to work for a few) what are some of their characteristics that were common across the board? One that comes to my mind, without a doubt, was their approach-ability and willingness to be there for staff. …
It’s simple: treat people how you want to be treated
When working with others, always do your best to be professional, respectful and courteous. Provide them respect, attention and dignity. No matter where they may work, above it all, they are people, just like you and your leadership role makes you even more accountable to ensure fair treatment of all employees. This extends across everyone you meet and work with …