While there are many things to focus on and do, I believe that these four general areas are of great value on this journey. 1. Learn what your customers and market want and need (you may not use all of it). Also, to a smaller degree, be aware of what your competition is doing. 2. Evaluate all strengths across your …
Stop hiding failures
First of all, we all have them and we will experience even more of them in years to come. Now, that we got that out of the way, it should be easier for each of us to internalize that truth and act accordingly. While I strongly believe that we should all focus on our strengths, I also believe that acknowledging …
Random learning opportunities
Learn from everyone, expand your perspectives and listen to what those you work with have to say about your organizational leadership, culture, performance, product, services, outcomes…your present and your future. Invite folks to be truthful and share what they have observed along the way, both across the industry and your organization.
Sabotaging your job interview
Have you ever intentionally sabotaged your job interview? And I don’t mean you could have been a bit less lazy with your resume or a cover letter, I mean, intentionally, half way through the process decided that that opportunity wasn’t it and you have found ways to “throw” the interview and the entire search process? Well, I did, twice and …
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 …
Don’t compare yourself to others
While it is valuable to be inspired by the actions of others, one should never attempt to emulate and recreate someone else’s life or career. Instead, focus on being the best version of yourself and live your life and forge new paths on your journey into the unknown.
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 …
Executives make decisions
Executive leaders must be capable of making decisions and acting on them. As a leader or someone aspiring to leadership positions, you should always do your due diligence in gathering data and information, speaking with others in the same industry (and outside of it), but in the end, you must make a decision. Always know that your teams are looking …
5 years later, nothing has changed?
Are you in the same place today as you were 5 years ago? Allow me to clarify. If you are happy where you are professionally (and personally), where you feel fulfillment, progress, advancement, contributions, and are a part of something larger than yourself..then, you have won already! Otherwise, if you are unhappy and you keep complaining to anyone willing to …