Words for leaders

"A conclusion is the place where you got tired of thinking." Harold Fricklestein

As leaders it is important that we don't pass judgement on anything until we've reviewed all of the available facts. If something goes wrong, we need to look at the facts before placing blame. I was working with a manager who was ranting and raving about our production department because they had "screwed up an ad." and he was going to give them a piece of his mind. I suggested we get the details first and upon examination found that his rep had submitted the wrong ad. Had he acted on his initial conclusion. This would have done irreparable harm to his relationship with the other department impacting the level ofsupport his team would receive in the future. Follow Davy Crockett's philosophy of life--Be sure your right then go ahead.

Make A Difference.

Thanks Jim Busch

Word

New Magazine Discovery

While browsing the magazines at my local Barnes and Noble, a new magazine shouted out to me. The title in big bold letters said MOTIVATED. I picked it up and when I saw Seth Godin's picture on the cover I knew I had to buy it. This is an interesting magazine with a number of stories about people who impact the world in positive ways. The Summer 2010 edition revolves around the theme of "Audacity". In addition to Seth Godin it features stories about Jimmy Wales the founder of Wikipedia, advice from Warren Buffett, public speaking, personal branding and much much more. I think you will find a good ROI on your $5.95 investment.

Make A Difference

Thanks Jim B.

Words for leaders

Here is this week's quote:

"It is wise to direct your anger towards problems--not people; to focus your energies on answers--not excuses."
William Arthur Ward

As managers and leaders we are in the solutions business. If we jump down people's throats when presented with a problem, they will soon learn to avoid bringing us problems. They will become expert at crafting excuses and at shifting the blame. We will find ourselves in the dark and frequently surprised by challenges. We need to work with our people to solve their problems because their problems are our problem. Encourage your people to bring your their problems as soon as they arise. Problems are easiest to fix before they have a chance to grow.

Make A Difference

Thanks Jim Busch

Get'm where they live

When a rep goes above the call of duty or closes a big sale, sent a thank you note to their home. This not only makes the contact very special but lets them share their feelings with their families. I have even gone so far as to send a note to a reps significant other if they've been working extra hard saying "I know NAME has been working extra hard and spending a lot of time at the office, I appreciate you supporting him/her. I know he/she is driven by a desire to build a great future for your both. Thank you." This can go a long way toward building morale and keep your reps motivated.

Make A Difference!

Thanks Jim Busch

Words for leaders

Theodore Roosevelt was one of the great leaders in American History. He lead the US to a place of world dominance in the early 20th century. Here is the cornerstone of his leadership philosophy:

"Example is the most potent of all things"

During the Spanish American War the Roosevelt's rough riders were pinned done by murderous rifle fire. When Roosevelt decided to take the hill held by the entrenched Spanish he did not order them forward, he led them. He not only took the lead in the advance up the hill but he went on horseback. As the only man on a horse he made himself a prominent target. He did this to encourage his men by showing them that he was not afraid. Throughout his career, Roosevelt made sure his image and actions were in perfect alignment with his words. You may not have to take a hill under fire, but you can show your people that you are willing to work hard and not let stress or negativity get to you.

Make A Difference

Thanks Jim Busch

Buy-in question

Sometimes we have to make decisions that our people don't like or agree with. When you get push back try using this question. Restate the situation and all the information you used to come to your decision and then ask "If you were in my position what would you do." This is a good conversation starter. If the rep makes a suggestion that would benefit them ask "How would the rest of the team feel if I did that?" or "How would you feel if you were...?" This process helps the rep see things from your perspective and while they might still disagree with you, they will understand that your decision was not arbitrary. As always good questions are the steering wheel in any conversation and they let you control where things are going.

Make A Difference!

Thanks Jim Busch