Stop Rambling. Start BLUF-ing.

Notice: This post provides a new communication tool that I would like you to try at least once today! A week or so ago, I began a phone conversation with a leader who had been referred to me. With very few opening pleasantries, this leader launched into his story about all the challenges he was […]

Opportunity for Leaders

Okay Leadership students. Take out your pen and paper and answer this question for today’s pop quiz:
What is your vision for how you will change or grow as a Leader between now and December 31st?
Pause to think about your answer before reading further . . . .
Labor Day is upon us. A change of seasons. With it, daily indications that the worst of the economy’s downturn is behind us. Some leaders have been stuck in neutral with their companies — trying every trick in the book but unable to grow sales. Others have continued to (painfully) cut employees and close stores — trying to stay afloat and ahead of the lenders. And some have been weathering things well, but have shifted themselves into neutral for summertime.
Well, it’s time to get to work — opportunity awaits! What is your vision for where you want to be 120 days from now?

Leaders Making the Shift

The economic world as we knew it has shifted significantly over the past six months. How has your leadership shifted?
On Tuesday of this week, I met with the President of a 600-person company that finds itself right in the crosshairs of the current real estate – capital markets mess. The day before, Monday, he had let 10% of his employees go — a move that was emotionally difficult, but necessary. In the last three months, this Leader has seen the landscape of his industry shift radically.
What struck me as we talked was the peace and confidence he projected. Even more significant was the clarity he had about his company’s focus. “Everyone knows we are focused on two things between now and December,” he said, and pointed to the whiteboard behind me, opposite his desk, where the guidelines for the coming months were written. This Leader knows where he is steering the company as the landscape around him shifts.

What Certain Leaders Do in Uncertain Times

Uncertain times?
Let’s see . . a stock market that no one can forecast . . . a presidential race completely up for grabs . . . and a 31 year-old trader who just cost his company $7.2 billion.
What a great time for Leaders to step up.
I read a great story last week about one Leader whose company is thriving amidst a crisis that has tanked most of the rest of his industry.

Effective Leaders Cultivate Simplicity

I’m learning that effective leaders cultivate simplicity. Simplicity begets . . . Clarity begets . . . Focus begets . . . ACTION! When I first begin working with Leaders, here’s a sampling of questions we discuss: How clear are you on what your organization most needs from you as Leader today? How succinctly could […]