Prior to October 1989, I thought that I was rocking along pretty well, leading my successful business. I had even served in leadership roles at several non-profit organizations. I didn't know it at the time, but I was missing one crucial component for effective leadership! Continue →
Use Leadership Math to Multiply Your Effectiveness
Have you ever noticed when organizations are in trouble, they naturally turn to find new leadership? How often have you seen a sports franchise try to turn things around by hiring a new head coach? Continue →
Learn the Two R’s of Effective Leadership
Early in my career, I began looking for information to help me improve my leadership. I knew there was more to leading a company than just occupying the corner office and signing paychecks. Continue →
Who Are Your Leadership Role Models?
Have you ever thought about your role models and what they are teaching you? Once I started thinking about it, I have had a lot of people in my life, in addition to my dad, who were good role models for me. Continue →
What Type of Manager are You?
Throughout my entire life, I have always been asked to lead. You are probably thinking, “so what?” Here is the interesting part - I never sought out a leadership role in anything. And I think I understand why. Continue →
Effective Leaders Wear Two Hats
Going back to when I was young boy and over the years, I have observed that my bent, or bias was toward building relationships (leading). Continue →
Why Some Managers Stink – and What to do About It!
Have you ever played the airport game? I recently took a trip and was forced to “play”. On the return part of my trip, I ran into problems and thus the game began. First, my flight was delayed, then they changed the gate, then my flight was delayed again, etc, …finally they canceled my flight and left me wondering how to get home – game over! Continue →
The Truth About Leading and Managing
Some things that happen in life hit you like a tidal wave. My father’s unexpected death was like that for me. The year was 1973. I was 20 years old and a recent university graduate when my father died. That is when I became the new leader of our small family business of five employees. A second wave of surprise and disbelief hit me when I discovered our business was carrying a huge (I mean Continue →
Give Me 5 Minutes and You’ll KNOW if You’re a Leader or a Manager!
As July 4th quickly approaches, I'm reminded of the courage of our founding fathers but more specifically, George Washington and his tremendous inner strength. He had a bent (natural leaning, propensity) that was recognized by others at an early age. Ultimately his bent toward courage and leadership resulted in his appointment of commander of the Continental Army and his unanimous election Continue →
Results From My 2015 Reader Survey
Last month I conducted my first ever Reader Survey. I asked, and you answered! Thanks for jumping in there and leaving your opinions and feedback. Let’s break down the results: It was interesting to dig into the survey results and learn more about you, dear reader. In an effort to build a “reader profile” I’ve identified the following characteristics that describe my average reader: Continue →