World Class Business

Are You Asking the Right Questions?

2012-02-15T06:07:00.001-08:00

Have you ever heard of the man named Joe Outhouse? He grew so weary of the teasing over his name that he finally had it changed---to Bill Outhouse. When asked why the change to "Bill", he replied, " I was tried of my friends always saying, "Hello Joe, what do you know?"

Henry Blackaby tells of a seminary professor, who often declared, "If you ask the wrong question, you'll get the wrong answer". He goes on to say, "Some people spend an inordinate amount of time addressing irrelevant issues...."

When I started my company many years ago, I was contracted by the State of Arkansas to do "audit's" of companies who needed to be asked the "right questions" for the purpose of discovering the actions necessary for on going growth. Over the years I've had several organizations and managers say.." I suspect we need to look at changes which should be made, or ways to make improvements, but I just don't know where or how to get started." Looking at a company holistically, (processes, leadership, sales, marketing, employee relations etc.) requires asking the right "questions." Like a doctor reaching the proper diagnosis it can only happen by discovery i.e. asking the right questions.

When I started my company over 20 years, I provided those free audits to organizations for a financial purpose.... Today, as part of a research project I'm going to make that same offer again. But before I describe the details of the offer, allow me to describe the requirements or understanding of those being questioned.

> Organizations must be open mined and even teachable.

> They must believe that they are not broken, but rather, seeking a new level of success.

> Leaders must be willing to be realistic and not hypnotize themselves or be delusional.

> It is a "snap shot" evaluation and a starting place for improvement.

> I am not building work for my self, I am offering an outside view as a business coach who has seen what good companies do and show how you might compare.

> I must be given access to those who can provided the right answer.

> Names of the companies will never be made public. All proprietary information will be protected.

> When the "right questions" have been asked and answered, then I will submit to you the "first steps" necessary to get started for growth and improvement.

The offer...I will give up to two days at no charge for my services. Depending on the size of the organization 2 days will probably be enough for most organizations to get the snap shot. The cost to the organizations will require covering all my travel related expenses. If you know of some group, company or organization that needs to be asked the "right questions" and be part of this project, please let me know.

Leadership Evaluation

2012-01-23T17:06:00.000-08:00

In the past several weeks a word of instruction keeps coming back to me as I travel through this thing called life.

The apostle Paul was giving advice to a specific group of folks concerning the attitude and behavior of humility and clearly told them........
"Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought."
He did not give a trendy title of "servant leadership" nor did he have a training class on "customer service." No, he started his counsel by urging the folks to first look at themselves "honestly." He suggested that if the look carefully into the mirror they more than likely will discover that they really are no big deal.

I support the idea of self confidence and positive thinking but it's interesting how we move to a different level and puff ourselves up when, in fact, we really are no big deal.

A flight attendant on a recent flight, announced over the loud speaker "My name is Carol and I'M THE HEAD FLIGHT ATTENDANT on this flight." She continued that mantra in action with co-workers and behavior toward customers.

A teacher corrected someone by reminding them that she was more than a teacher, she was a professor.

An applicant continued to tell me of his MBA rather than explain his record of accomplishment.

An uncle of mine (who has been dead for many years) was called "Judge" by family and friends because he was some sort of constable in the township he lived in. I don't think he had much of a formal education but he read a lot of books and wore the title like a badge of importance. I remember him as being condescending in many life issues while lacking in common sense. But that didn't bother him, because he was "the judge."

Many people in positions of authority and leadership in business have allowed their educational efforts and/or their climb up the managerial ladder to cloud clear thinking about who they really are and how they got where they are today.

I would suspect that at one time...

> They worked hard.

> They showed kindness.

> Helped others expecting nothing in return.

> Sought help from others.

> Listened and learned from others.

> Was genuinely interested and caring of others.

> They did not think themselves superior to others.

> They were sober in their self evaluation and remembered it important.

"Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought..."

Pushing Through The Finish Line!

2011-12-26T18:51:00.000-08:00

Well, 2011 is almost over.

In many respects it has been a good year for my company and my family. Just like other years, we have experienced some disappointments and frustrations. Some folks have a tendency to focus on the latter in a negative way, but as is my habit I choose to learn and then push through the finish line.

Today I begin a 4 city business assignment which will conclude on the last day of the year when my plane sets down in my home state of Arkansas. As a business owner and a former amateur distance runner, I was sitting in seat 3B today on American Airlines and reflecting on what's required to finish the race in the right way. Here are my thoughts in bullet point format.

> You must condition yourself properly before you begin the race. Both mentally and physically. There is a sizeable amount of uncomfortableness necessary for the right kind of conditioning.

> Work hard EVERY day. Asking for handouts or seeking the easy way seldom works. Some one once said "the harder I worked, the luckier I got."

> Be thankful for every event. Even the ones that were painful. There's a learning moment in every experience.

> Be grateful for those who have helped and supported you along the way. I could never do what I do with out the support of my wife. She is my partner in a varity ways. In addition, I have some great business associates who have been very helpful, in different ways, along my race route.

> When there is a loss, mourn it but don't live in it forever. At some point let it go and prepare for the next race.

> Show humility in your success and confidence for a better tomorrow in the defeats.

> Remember and cherish the thoughts of those who have touched your life in a significant way and remember those you have touched.

> Set the next goal.

> Do something fresh or different. I know a lot of people who are "one trick ponies" and they are unable to sustain themselves for the long haul. Oh they may limp along to the finish line, but they have settled for the comfortable.

> Get rid of those things that do not contribute to reaching your goals or mission.

> RISK! Getting something with out risking is not worth much. High risk might result in failure, but it could reap higher rewards.

I'm grateful to God for 2011 and all it has taught me.

I'm excited about the new race beginning in 2012.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T07:10:00.000-08:00

Knowing Is Not Enough

2011-12-09T10:04:00.000-08:00

I know! I know!

I know I should stop smoking.

I know I should lose some weight.

I know I should try and improve my appearance.

I know I should consider seriously my relationship with God.

I know I should work on my communication skills.

I know I should manage my money better.

I know I should say I'm sorry when I know I'm wrong.

I know I should listen better.

I know I should find ways to engage our employees more and let them help us improve our organization.

I know, I know!

Not making a decision is a decision. You may get lucky by putting things off, but that does not make you a good decision maker or indicate that you have some divine wisdom on timing. I know plenty of people (you do to) and organizations who HOPE they are lucky enough to avoid negative circumstances from their non-decision.

Putting off a decision may be inconvenient and unsettling in the moment, but if you're NOT lucky in your non-decision and don't take the needed action, things will only get worse.

Should someone take the gamble that they won't get lung cancer and therefore put off the decision to stop smoking until later? Should a persons inability for handling finances find reasons not to take action on financial management/guidance which could avoid putting their family/organization into a perilous future? Is it ok for government officials to make non- decisions on critical issues and hope we get lucky in the future, when in reality, we know they are gambling until after their re-election?

We should all (individually and organizationally) take action on those things we know need a decision or require action now. Not knowing how is one thing, but not making a decision/action is a dangerous gamble.

Is Cost Cutting Killing Your Business?

2011-11-28T17:02:00.000-08:00

I have stayed in the same hotel for several years in a beautiful part of eastern Tennessee. The rooms were OK, at best, but the view of the Smoky Mountains and the surrounding area was peaceful and a refreshing departure from normal business travel. It was a convenient drive to my clients location. The icing on the cake was the hotel staff and the welcoming and exceptional customer service.

Sadly, last week was my last night at this hotel. Why? Because the owners sold the business to a new group and, in and effort to save money, the new owners have stepped into a "cost saving" frenzy. They took away almost everything that caused me to give them my repeat business. (I say almost because the Smoky Mountains are still there.)

I have challenged my clients for years to consider how they are special or different beyond the "Value Proposition" .

You see, A hotel, is a hotel is a hotel.

A manufacturer (of your product, you fill in blank) is a manufacturer, is a manufacturer.

A bank is a bank is a bank.

A CEO is a CEO is a CEO.

A consultant is a consultant is a consultant.

What makes you different? What is it that YOU DO that makes you stand out and provide exceptional value for your employer or customer?

For my business, I know the answer to that question. In the long haul, I make my clients' more money and I help them reach the level of success they are seeking. I'm not the cheapest consultant on the planet and don't intend to be. I provided VALUE. What I do is beyond the intellectual "know it all" who just teach and leave it for people to try and figure out how to implement the concepts presented. We get results by walking them through the process.

What about YOU as an employee of a company? How are you different than anyone else who has a like position or product?

I've watched many companies', during the recent economic crises, turn away from doing what they have traditionally done best, to cut cost. The result? They are killing the business.

Think about it. Are you killing your business for the sake of cost cutting activities? Has the constant and obsessive focus on the bottom line caused you to become blind to the distinction between "error cost" and the cost of improvement? It's a question each executive staff or boss should be having with their employees. Engage this discussion before it's to late and your end up like my formally favorite hotel in Tennessee.

For more, follow me at www.facebook.com/billlewisconsulting

When Life Is Over....

2011-11-20T18:11:00.000-08:00

Will you have what you want?

"It was Spring but it was Summer I wanted.

Warm days and the great out doors.

It was Summer but it was Fall that I wanted.

The beautiful colors of the leaves and the cool air.

It was Fall but it was Winter I wanted.

The beautiful snow and the joy of the holiday season!

It was Winter but it was Spring that I wanted.

The warmth, renewal of new life and the blooming of nature.

I was a child, but it was adulthood I wanted.

The freedom and respect.

I was 20... but it was the 30's I wanted.

Mature and sophisticated.

I was middle aged, but it was the 20's that I wanted.

The youth and free spirit of those days.

I was retired but it was middle age I wanted.

The presence of mind with out limitation.

Finally? My life was over and I never got what I wanted."

Author unknown

Doesn't that describe people you've known? How about the "occupy wall street" crowd of today who are screaming " I never got what I deserve!"

I am focused this week to work with a heart of thankfulness. Even as difficult as things are in these days of our economic woes we should be THANKFUL for what we have. But more importantly? We should be CONTENT. Not complacent. Not resigned to our present circumstances, but CONTENT!

In the play "Henry VI..Part 2" The King was in the fields and dressed down for the environment. Meeting two men he introduces himself. Looking at him they said "But if thou be a King, where is thy crown?"

To which the King replied..."My crown is in my HEART not on my head. Not decked with diamonds and indian stones, not to be seen. My crown is called "content". A crown it is that Kings seldom enjoy."

The apostle Paul said " I have learned to be CONTENT." We ALL have much to be thankful for. And for me, I'm not only Thankful. I am CONTENT.

Happy Thanksgiving wishes for ALL who happen to read this.
Bill

Credit to Alistair Begg for the words used in this blog site...

2011-11-07T19:13:00.000-08:00

Within the past month I have received two emails surrounding the subject of "frustration." A consultant friend of mine expressed "frustration" with his clients and his inability to move the company toward the "change" they had hired him to do. His comment was

" Bill, I don't know how you've been able to do what you do for all these years. I get SO FRUSTRATED trying to get management to do the things I think necessary."

Recently a firm I was working with turned the corner (a little bit more) after a couple years of hard work and the following comment came from a manager in that firm.

Morning Bill,

Thank you, so much, for pushing for us to have the opportunity to grow.

Others may not have told you personally, but there was a lot of discussion about how hard you push to get things done. That is what makes you such a success. You keep pushing when you know it is a good thing. I admire your efforts I'm just sorry you have to work so hard for our success. I guess our success is also your success. That is rewarding! Thanks for everything!

In management and leadership we all get frustrated. In life you will get frustrated. How you deal with frustration will determine how successful, happy and content you will be. Government will frustrate you. Politicians will frustrate you. The market will frustrate you. Your kids will frustrate you. People will lie about or talk about you and that's really frustrating! A lot of those things are "small people" or things I just don't have control over. When talking about attitude, Chuck Swindoll said "I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it."

As a business coach there have been some fundamentals which I have adhered to in the process of change management and organizational growth.

> Have the top people in the organization on your side. This is typically the CEO, CFO and President or VP of Operations. NOTHING will change for the long haul if they are not committed for the long haul. Develop a great working relationship. There is more to this point, but will save the details for another time.

> Sincerely know and demonstrate that everyone in the company is important and deserve your respect and ear.

>Know who the major influencers are. It may not be the boss. It may be a person stuck in the bowels of the organization who people look to for the "cues." If this person thinks you're ok, then many will follow their lead.

> Conduct a complete diagnosis of the company your working with. I don't do "training programs" and I don't give one size fits all solutions to every organization. Every company is different in culture and in the dynamics of leadership.

> Have a plan that makes sense for the firm, operating locations and departments. Connect the dots between all departments as part of an organizational strategy. Communicate the plan to the leadership.This includes the amount of time, money and resources necessary.

> Don't let your frustration show. When untruths are leveled, or if people don't do what they said they were going to do, take a deep breath and walk away. Think about how you will respond before you do...if you do. It's taken me awhile on this one, but it pays off.

> Know WHO YOU are. What are your values and operating principles. Know your center.

> Be a pro. Look like a pro. Clean up your mouth and speak like a pro.

> Know your place. You're not a buddy, (and certainly not a drinking buddy.) You're not a "Drill Sergeant." Be firm, confident and stand up for what you believe. Remember you are still relying on them to take action. I realize I will always be an outsider and that I am not the boss. Knowing my boundaries is critical for ongoing success with any firm.

> Know when to push, how hard to push and when to back off.

I know, clearly, that my real purpose is facilitating growth and development of people. Companies are made up of PEOPLE. And if I can get individual people moving and growing then the natural result has been, successful, growing and profitable organizations.

Changing Times, Job Security and ...YOU!

2011-10-07T18:54:00.000-07:00

With the economic mess around the world, managers are trying to figure out how to stay ahead of the game both personally as well as for their businesse's during these rapidly changing times.

As I sat on the plane in the Chicago Airport for my 106th take off (so far this year), I thought of how so much has changed and how quickly it has happened. I remember the old DC 3 of Frontier Airlines and my first trip. Wow, how exciting it was to fly on a plane! Now, it's as routine as getting into my pick up truck. I recalled how all the business folks would scramble for the bank of phones in the terminal to check in with the office. Now, when the plane lands it's instant messaging with a variety of hand held devices. There are 90 trillion emails sent each year. That's 2.8 million per second. 1.5 billion tweets per month. Then throw in Facebook, Linkedin, and text messages!!!!.

All of these technological advances have placed many people and organizations in irrelevant peril.

I remembered what Steve Jobs said concerning companies who focus on meeting the customer needs. You can't just ask customers what they want and then try to give that to them. ..., people don't know what they want until you show it to them. ... "You can't just ask customers what they want and then try to give that to them. By the time you get it built, they'll want something new."

Many of the firms I work with are not necessarily high tech organizations but high tech is part of the improvement in their processe's. There are organizations out there right now who are working toward providing you the competitive advantage with technology you may not have even thought about or know you need. Competing in a global economy will compel us to KEEP up with what's out there. Believe me, your competition is. Go to trade shows, tool shows, industry events. Talk with your customers, they will tell you what your competitors are doing to get the business.

But you know, even though there are major changes in our business world, there are still fundamentals which organizations continue to ignore. THAT is what will eventually stunt their growth and enhance their vulnerability in the market place..

> Leadership. It begins and ends here. "As the leader goes, so goes the organization." Almost nothing happens unless leadership is passionate, consistent and worthy of trust. Subordinates care about what the boss cares about. Board members should be looking at the CEO's and CEO's should be looking at their senior operating staff, etc.

> Proper staffing. As Jim Collins says, "You've got to have the right people sitting in the right seats on the bus." I stand amazed at the number of incompetent people who still have their jobs because they have "seniority" or because they are in some "protected class." Run your business wisely and don't be paralyzed by things that will probably never happen.

> Financial common sense. Too many organizations are still being controlled by CFO's who's only solution through these tough times is "cut cost,"when in reality, there's more money lost in poor and inefficient operations than most companies know. They either do not know how to recognize or are unwilling to deal with the problems.

> Engaging all of your employees. Someone once said "None of us, are as smart as all of us." I get weary of hearing managers talk about how engaged their employees are when, in fact, the discussion about improved business practices are still reserved for the self perceived "super brains" of these managers.

> Strategic process improvement. It does not always require new technology to make a big difference for your competitiveness. I know many organizations who have made huge gains with out spending more money. They got "lean." It does require a planned process for improvement solutions.

> Live your values and operating principles. I personally know companies who have posted on walls around the organizations their Value Statements which declare their honesty and integrity, while at the same time will intentionally not pay their creditors. They will espouse their concern for their employees, however their daily actions demonstrate just the opposite.

> Create Customers. It's more than market research, but it requires sound market strategic planning.

> Have a plan for personal and professional development. READ the WSJ, Financial Times along with leadership books and magazines. Read out side of your speciality once in awhile. Develop a holistic view of business. Take a "personal retreat". Get in to a routine of physical exercise.

I'm not a "tech nerd" and don't have all the gadgets. But I'm plugged in enough to stay competitive. As I prepared myself for my 106th landing I pondered why my business is secure and even growing. It's because there are still a lot of organizations who need someone to coach them through the steps described in this blog article.

How are you doing? Rate yourself and your firm on the above. If you can and will adhere to all described above, YOU will have a better chance to thrive in these changing times and secure your job for the future.

Celebrating Labor....

2011-09-06T15:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a national holiday in America. Labor Day. The first Labor Day event was held in NY in 1882. President Grover Cleveland, in his efforts to reconcile with the labor movement after several deaths at the hands of Federal Marshal's and U.S Military during the Pullman strike, signed into law this national holiday in 1894. The original design of the labor holiday was to celebrate the economic and social contribution of workers.

Much has changed as it relates to labor and the workers of our country and around the world. In the U.S., during the 1950's, 35% of the non-farm jobs was in manufacturing . Today, that number is right around 10%. Most of the good manufacturing jobs have gone to Mexico or overseas to China and India. We just don't make things like we use to in our country. Example,today, Ford announced the building of a 1 billion dollar manufacturing facility in India which will employ 5,000 people .

Labor unions only represent 6.9% of employees in the private sector, while they represent 32.6% of public sector workers. As I've mentioned before, government does not create wealth, they consume it. Creating jobs or giving out food subsidies does nothing to strengthen our economic system. The creation of wealth is still "making stuff, selling stuff and working with people." Unemployment in the U.S. is above 9% and in the minority communities it's closer to 26%.

What has not changed is:

1)The principle and importance of work.

2) The relationship between those we call "workers" and management.

I suppose there have always been freeloaders, but it appears to me that there are more of them today and the "shame" of not working or taking a handout does not exists like it once did. Today, the "you owe me" attitude" or... "I have a right to have a high standard of living" mentality is prevalent around the world. Take a look at the recent riots in the UK, based on a belief of "getting what is mine" even if I have to steal and destroy public property to get it.

The we/they mentality and the adversarial relationship between "workers" and management continues to manifest it's self in a variety of ways. In spite of the rhetoric, those responsible for "workers" spend less time developing a solid working relationship and opt for spending their time working on cost cutting issues or other non-people concerns. Why? Because it's a lot easier. I know this for a fact, because I work with companies who are trying to turn this mind set around. Most top executives "talk" a good game, but few live it, which just heightens suspicion and dissatisfaction.

Here are some thoughts that every person should consider regardless of position or power.

* Is your job a "blessing or a burden?" If it's a burden, then get out of it as soon as you can.

* Is your work meaningful?

* If your were not on the job, would it matter to the organization you work for?

* Do you add value to your job, or do you JUST do the task?

* Is your work enjoyable?

* Do you feel as if you make a difference?

I have spent my career helping organizations and individuals answer those questions in a positive way. Healthy people make healthy and profitable companies.

The mantra of "I work to live, I don't live to work" or "take this job and shove it" is not a healthy celebration of "Labor."

How did you score on the above questions?

Being GOOD in Business

2011-07-08T03:34:00.000-07:00

Alexis de Tocqueville was a French political thinker.

We all know of organizations who have become very successful financially. We are cognizant of companies who appear to have the right strategy and needed resources to capture large market share in their areas of expertise. Many folks may look at these organizations and declare them to be great companies, businesses etc. But, how many of us could name a really GOOD company. A good company has more going for them than just a fat bottom line, even though the bottom line is often impressive as well. Good companies become great because of the confidence in who they are, not just what they make or do. Good companies have an uncompromising and genuine ethical stand and character. One of the key words in this statement is GENUINE. Non pretenders.

Character defined is: the complex of mental and ethical traits marking and often individualizing a person, group, or nation.

We've heard people say that the reason they don't like church is because of the hypocrites who claim to be Christians. I know these "pretenders" just like you do. People who claim a moral high ground but live a life of being gossips, liars, jealous, deceitful, petty and miserable people. I also know of MANY organizations who claim to care about the engagement, empowerment and the growth of their employees. But massive labor turnover, absenteeism, union work stoppage and miserable managers declare that the organizations are just pretenders. I know of business who declare " the customer is king", but treat customers with disdain. Pretenders can cause serious, long lasting damage to the observing world.

Tocqueville is credited for saying...

"I sought for the greatness and genius of America in her commodious harbors and her ample rivers and it was not there; in her fertile fields and boundless forests and it was not there; in her rich mines and her vast world commerce and it was not there; in her democratic Congress and her matchless Constitution and it was not there. Not until I went into the churches of America and heard her pulpits aflame with righteousness did I understand the secret of her genius and power. America is great because she is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, she will cease to be great."

As a business coach, I have the wonderful opportunity to help leaders find the soul of their organizations. Who they really are and what they genuinely want to be in the industry, the community and to each other. It is not a "training program" or a two day event in the woods. It is a process that's sometimes perceived as mysterious, corny or irrelevant. But I know first hand that good companies become great companies when they genuinely develop a clear understanding, communicate it regularly and live those principles daily. After a period of time a person can see who is really committed to developing a culture of exceptional character and those who are merely pretenders.The world will see through pretenders and reject them.

Every person reading this short blog should ask the question.."Do I work for an organization/business that is Good?" If not, why not and what are you going to do about it?

Just a thought...Press on...

Creating Jobs!

2011-06-18T08:48:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when I read the news, I stand amazed at how little our government officials seem to understand real life. Especially business life. Our unemployment rate is above 9%. Our growth rate in the U.S. is expected to be less than 2%. Millions of Americans have been cut out of any modest "recovery" and the projected "new normal" will be 7% unemployed forever. Really?

Of course the governments solution is to throw money at the problem. (Money we don't have, by the way, and will be forced to borrow) Governments don't create wealth, they consume it. We should learn from Greece, Spain and others. The public sector employees, unions government programs with cradle to grave hand outs which are killing the future for my friends in Greece. Their debit to GDP is 127%! I recall working in Athens just a few years ago and talking with a group of union employees, who worked for a small government establishment. I told them how to approach a cooperative, inclusive management process how it could be accomplished and offered to coach them through it. My statements concerning working together was received with stiff necked resistance from both sides. Now I watch the battle grounds being waged in that beautiful city on TV and am truly saddened to watch countrymen fight one another as the enemy. It could have been avoided. It would have required some major changes which they were unwilling to consider. Now they are going to experience changes which are much worse than they could have imagined. Their standard of living will decrease for years to come. The unrealistic unsustainable debt will be devastating to ALL.

Our own U.S. government may provide a "job" for some people like TSA agents (and yes, it's a government jobs program and not a security program) contracts and bail out money to protect public sector unions and of course more IRS agents to make sure we are paying our taxes to pay for the jobs programs. But it won't create wealth. Lately the Obama administration has suggested we have more training programs paid for by the government. But what good does it do to train people for jobs that don't exist?

Creating jobs must equal creating wealth for a healthy company and country. And creating those kind of jobs is ALL ABOUT the customer! The only way jobs will come back to American workers is by "Creating Customers." In addition they will need unusual cooperation on both sides of labor and management becoming true partners in growth and profitability. For my friends in Europe, Asia and Russia who have small businesses, it's the same mindset. Building a business that causes customers to seek you out is how to survive the economic pressures. I know first hand because in my own company we have made adjustments, not only to survive, but thrive. People buy because of a WANT or a NEED. Good sales people are able to convince reasonable people that their WANTS can become NEEDS.

Creating Jobs/Wealth

> Have a strategic plan for at least the next 3 years. Do this with a holistic view of your business.

> Reduce waste that has become a way of doing business in your company. ( I can give examples if you like.)

> Build true partnerships in and with your business.

> Find ways to set yourself apart from the rest...even if you provide a commodity product or service.

> Sell what you do best i.e. Quality, Service, Time, Flexibility or Price.

> Do Jack Welch's 20/70/10 rule EVERY year. In different areas of your business.

> Practice sound financial disciplines.

What role does government have? Simple. Get out of the way!! How?

Get rid of those agencies that are not supporting the free market enterprise. Stop building more oversight regulations, committees and departments like the EPA, NLRB etc. Reduce the corporate tax rate so organizations can spend their money on Marketing, R&D, new equipment and new product development. Allowing companies to keep more of the profit will encourage jobs to stay here and not go overseas. Confidence in the economy will only happen when people are spending again. They will only spend when they have confidence that government is not going to mess things up and that we are on the right track for growth.

Hope and Change?

2011-06-11T19:07:00.000-07:00

The Obama presidential campaign ran on the "slogan" of Hope and Change. Well we got the change, but not what most Americans were thinking it would be. What we got was a fast talking empty suit who's entire life had been built around asking the government to support his "community organizing" job. He saw the U.S. as one big community to organize and to continue to get government to pay for the troubles of the world as he saw it. When he became president he gave away leadership to the House and Senate majority to carry out his anti- business, pro-government agenda which has driven an already troubled economy further into disaster.

As a business coach I encounter unrealistic expectations and "hope's for change" in the business world over the years... And yes, I've met some empty suits who got their jobs in top leadership by means other than being leaders.. I see similar actions and attitudes as with the government officials. One of the predictable things they do is throw money at "hype" motivation programs. And, just like people dealing within the political setting, they want instant result's with little to no CHANGE to their lives. For many people, change is more of the same just better. But...that's not what change is or how it happens. It is thinking differently and ACTING differently.

Real change requires:

> A clear and well thought out vision and direction.

> A well defined strategy for the long haul. It is a process not a program. Training programs do little to nothing to cause behavior change. Why companies pay for one time "trainers" for the quick fix and no on-going follow up baffles me. What a waste of money!

> Clear, open, honest and consistent communication to the masses.

> A commitment of time and money to complete the process. (People want it to happen over night. It doesn't happen that way.)

> Making the tough decisions necessary for growth and positive change.

Making more money, attracting more customers, having your employees "engaged", improved quality, higher production requires a concentrated effort to those items listed above. It does not happen by wishing it, or saying you want it to happen. Slogans won't get it. It takes leadership to "cause" change to happen.

Yes, it is hard work, and yes it must be coached consistently. But... those who have really embarked in REAL Change Management (the way it should be done) have experienced positive "pay off's" beyond their imagination.

Customer Loyalty

2011-05-01T16:29:00.000-07:00

As I sit in row 3A, on my next flight going to work this weekend, I am greeted by the employees of American Airlines with special attention. From the gate agent, flight attendant and Admirals Club staff I am made to feel exceptional as a traveler. Why? Because I AM exceptional. You see, I am now moving onto 4 million miles traveled on this airline alone which with my Executive Platinum status I have qualified for lifetime Platinum. It's fashionable for those who don't travel often to belly ache about the service, flight delays, cancellations of almost all airlines which also includes AA. They are not perfect. However, they continue to get my business because of their loyalty to ME as I show loyalty to them. For those who might wonder, the airfares are almost the same as the "discount" providers. Often cheaper, and their schedules are great, for me, to be able to connect anywhere in the world.

But this is not an article about an airlines. It's about loyalty to a customer and the extent some companies go through to demonstrate, in REAL terms, appreciation for returning customers on a frequent basis. As I sip my complementary beverage and enjoy the upgraded seating, I think of how few companies REALLY show their most loyal customers their gratitude beyond just giving price breaks and multipliers.

* With some of my customers I have had the opportunity to lead them into "Customer Appreciation" activities. This includes special customer days of communication to award programs much like the airlines do.

* When it comes to employees, I am a big proponent of appreciation for the top percentile of performers in our organizations who are the super stars among the masses. I subscribe fully into an evaluation and performance feed back system like the 20/70/10 rule espoused by Jack Welch (former GE CEO.)

* Firms who have long term supportive vendors and suppliers should be showing them how much they are appreciated, and relied on, for mutual growth and success. This might include an occasional bonus or a special event in which all top vendors are brought in together to experience genuine "thanks" for a partnership above and beyond the norm.

Think about your own firm. What have you actively done differently to demonstrate your loyalty to the customer, rather than merely hoping your customers will be loyal? Here are some facts.

68% will leave because of perceived indifference from a single individual.

70% will leave for greater feeling of connectivity elsewhere.

It takes five times as much time and effort to attract a new customer as it does to retain the one you've got.

This is a top management commitment to go beyond what the competition is doing. You need fresh and innovative ideas!! You may post off what your company is doing on the blog site.
Let me know if you need help with ideas for your firm.
I have time to think about it as I sit in 3A traveling to my next assignment.

Where Have Our Employees Gone?

2011-04-16T17:22:00.000-07:00

Recent events shown in the news media concerning state budgets and public sector union employees, coupled with my visits to several companies the past few weeks, has triggered a lot of thoughts about the relationship organizations have with their people. People who they rely on to carry out tasks important for growth and profit.

When I look at the anger, hostility, lack of interest and disengagement, it makes me wonder where have our employees gone? Our country has become increasingly polarized in many sectors. People are joining "sides" regardless if it makes sense or not. The "I want mine" at any cost insistence, along with our morale and ethical decay, will be the major contributor to this countries down fall.

> In business we have become lazy in communicating and working with our people. The phenomenon of "out sourcing" our employment practices is proving to be more costly than most companies imagine. When I talk with workers who are classified as "temp" employees and I ask them who they work for they never tell me they work for the company who's name is on the building. They respond by saying "Workforce, Manpower, Staffmart or any number of temp agencies around the country. It's easy for businesses to hire workers thru temp agencies. It's fast and they don't have to be bothered much with interviewing and selection and the people are easy to get rid of if they don't work out. Employers don't have a stake in the person's success because they handed off the relationship to a third party, and the employees don't really think they work for a firm. They think they work for a temp agency. The HR department has become more adept with vendor relations rather than employee relations. They are the purchasing department of people. There is MUCH more I could say about the "temp mentality" both from an employers stand point and the employees but will save it for another time. But the bottom line is, it has a huge negative impact on the bottom line. Much more than what most companies think.

>Unions around the country are feeling a renewed burst of power, primarily through the news media and the most anti business president and administration in the history of our country. The news media has demonized big business, people who make money and reinforce it with stupid reality TV programs like "Undercover Boss" which depict out of touch CEO's. The events in WI, OH, TN, etc. will do more for unions than what they had hoped "card check" laws would have done for them. The re-established and vocal WE/THEY rhetoric will do a lot for the "business" of organized labor, but not for the business of creating jobs and growing the economy. Rather, it will contribute to organizations moving more jobs off shore out of the U.S.

> People want to identify with something bigger than themselves and they want to belong. We have lost loyalty for the good and have embraced "blind" loyalty to a ideology. Here are a few examples. People have abandoned common sense, kindness and sense of decency during demonstrations in State Capitol buildings. I have wonderful African-American friends who have forfeited their values and religious faith beliefs to support a president just because he's black. I know hard working family people who are willing to shut down the organization they are working for to make a point. Look at the NFL. Who will win in this deal?

As an executive and business coach, I pretty much tell it like I see it when dealing with my clients. I do that for several reasons.
1.) It's my value system and who I am, i.e. being a man of integrity and honesty.
2.) It's a waste of time not to.
3.) My clients don't pay me to play games.
4.) I work hard at building and maintaining healthy relationships.
5.) It's the quickest path to making improvements and solving problems.

We all should be doing the same thing. Stand on principle.

Lou Holtz told his teams there are 3 things you must do. #1.) Do what's right. #2.) Do the best you can. #3.) Treat others the way you want to be treated. He goes on to explain that these three actions will answer three questions every person has.
1.) Can I trust you?
2.) Do you care about me?
3.) Are you committed to excellence?

We must be able to answer those 3 questions for our employees if we want to get them back.

Ten Ways to Waste Money....

2011-02-24T09:57:00.000-08:00

This article written by Dave Bertolini is one of the best I've seen for organizational growth. See the entire article go to http://reliabilityweb.com/index.php/articles/Top_Ten_Ways_to_Waste_Money/

But here is the first Three to give you a flavor of his truth laced with humor.

Number 10: When engaging with a consultant, ensure you ignore what they recommend. You’re only paying them to advise you. After all, what is it they know that you don’t already know?

Ideally, you have formed a partnership with your consultant and the total focus is on your organization’s success. A wise person once told me if you can’t solve a problem in three days, get someone from the outside to look at the issue, because you’ll never solve it on your own. It requires a leap of faith to place your trust in “an outsider,” but if you have chosen your partner wisely, mutual respect and trust can quickly be achieved and real results can happen. Remember, at the end of the day you’ve engaged with this individual to guide and advise you based on his/her knowledge and past experiences. More importantly the things you see and do every day are natural to you, but perhaps you can’t see the forest through the trees… when they might be able to. We all need someone to come by and pull our heads out of the mud puddle and tell us which way they went once in a while.

Number 9: Only empower and engage a small number of employees. It’s easier to manage and you won’t have to deal with a large group trying to change and move too
quickly.

If there was ever an adage that would fit nicely here it would be, “The more, the merrier.” Engage all you can. Empower people to make a change. The key to successful change is to paint the picture of the future, give them the tools to get there, and reward for the right results. A change initiative was once described to me that it’s like a big, long, fully loaded train. Once it gets up the steam and starts moving don’t try to stop it, because you can’t easily get it started again. The best thing one can do is to ensure the tracks are clear and the switches are set for the proper routing, and then enjoy the ride to the destination.

Number 8: Don’t waste money on training people. There are tons of free books at the library that people can check out to obtain the necessary skills to improve their performance and knowledge.

Does anyone really think when we hire an employee that they have signed on with all the skills they will ever need for their tenure within the organization? Hopefully not, however, most organizations end up treating people that way. Evaluate your training program; if there isn’t one, establish one. If not, you will always get what you have always gotten. Remember, all roles within the organization require some level of training to improve upon their fundamental skill sets. I heard a great saying somewhere along the way: “Remember, ignorance can be corrected through education; however, stupidity is forever.”

It's Time to Speak.....

2011-02-08T17:11:00.000-08:00

I have never been much of a movie guy, but this week my wife and I went to the theater to view a powerful story, "The King's Speech." For me, it was more than a story

about King George VI and his tormented difficulty with stammering speech. Earlier in the week I had listened to a radio program discussing the book "White House-Ghosts",

Presidents and their speech writers.

Both of these encounters highlighted a specific topic which reinforced, for me, one of the most important practices for Organizational/Personal/Professional success there is i.e. the ability to SPEAK.

When you read most Leadership Books, or attend Leadership Seminars you will hear about integrity, vision, mission and a host of topics which are basically the same, just warmed over differently. Seldom will you hear anything about the importance of public speaking. You'll hear about "communication", but little emphasis is given to the art, science and skill of standing before people with oratory mastery. It is not enough to have the gift of gab, and I'm not talking about motiviation speakers who deliver flowery words. You must have substance with words. The great leaders of history were not men or women of superior intellect, rather they were eloquent in transferring their ideas, passion and vision from their head and hearts to the masses.

> England would have fallen had it not been for the radio talks Winston Churchill gave to the people admonishing them to "Never Give Up!" Had it not been for his ability to speak, we might all be speaking German today.

>Martin Luther King did not say anything different than thousands of black men before him, but he is credited with changing race relations in America when he described, with brilliance, in his speech that "I have a dream!"

>Adolf Hitler stirred his country into World War II with his fiery rhetoric.

>John the Baptizer was described as a VOICE in the wilderness.

>John Kennedy gives credit to his speech writers (who he called his intellectual life blood) in the evolving phrases like "Ask NOT..." speeches and his ability to deliver with imagination and passion.

>If we still had LP's we could have FDR's greatest hits from his fire side chats which are often quoted today.

>And on his 100th birthday celebration, the "Great Communicator" Ronald Reagan is revered for his captivating challenge to communism "Tear Down This Wall!"

How important is the issue of public speaking ability?
It is still rated as one of the most important abilities employers are looking for in leadership/management candidates.

It is still rated a #1 on the most feared thing among adults in America. (Death is 3rd).
Many of the companies I work with have great managers who are terrible at speaking before those they are required to lead. If I had my way, every business student in college would be required to go through public speaking classes before they could graduate. ( It was my most dreaded class in college, and the most important I ever took.) If I had my way, every manager would be required to attend Dale Carnegie or a public speaking course at the community college before being promoted. It's that important...it's that rare.

I often quote the following...(author unknown)

"The man who knows how will always have a job and will always make a living.

But the man who knows WHY, and can communicate it effectively will always be his boss and will always be his leader."

You can manage with out being a good speaker, but you will never accomplish the highest level of leadership until you can inspire, motivate, paint pictures in the heads of those following you through linguistic articulation.

Think about it...and then SPEAK!

Are you still working with your people the same ole way?

2011-02-01T18:00:00.000-08:00

As I sit in my hotel room beginning my 21st year as a professional business coach/consultant, I’am preparing to perform one of the tasks necessary for assisting one of my good clients. It’s a task I’m not particularly excited to do (for a lot of personal reasons) but a task that is probably one of the most important things I do which contributes to their ongoing success. As a result, I do get excited with the positive results which will occur from this task.

I've talked with many managers over the years who have a deep and sincere desire for their employees to become engaged with the company and to become more than just workers who show up every day and do work for a pay check. They want their employees to genuinely feel like part of the company willing to give ideas, contribute at a higher level and to feel good about the organization they give so much of their life to.

Remember years ago, as part of the Bill Clinton’s presidential campaign in order to drive home the importance of the major issue they declared “it’s the economy stupid?" Well, when executives tell me they just don’t know how to motivate their people to become engaged in the organization. I often want to explain loudly “it’s a PROCESS stupid." It’s not a motivation speech. It’s not the latest training course given once to a select group of people. It’s not a pep rally or an opinion survey. It is an ongoing process which causes change to happen. Consistently and continually.

Common problems which hinders organizational growth are:

1. Lack of a clear and consistent communication process.

2. A coherent direction and purpose by the leadership.

3. An established "What's in it for me?" for all stakeholders.

4. Gaps in all the "programs" they are going, or have gone, through i.e. not connecting the dots.

5. Absences of a planned process. Process to cause positive things to happen. You can't tell people to become engaged. You must make a way for them to become engaged.

6. Providing the time and money to make all of the above happen.

Steven Covey in his book "7 Habits of Highly Successful People" very accurately describes where management chooses to spend their time and efforts.

1. Urgent/Important- Crisis-Fire Fighting (This makes us feel important and needed.)

2. Not Urgent but Important - Prevention - Causing something NOT to happen..

3. Urgent but not Important -Interruptions/Meetings

4. Not Urgent not Important – Busy Work/Time Wasters

This week, my task is properly placed in the 2nd quadrant. Education for the masses. It is time consuming, modestly disruptive to the operational flow, a financial investment in the people, but absolutely critical for the successful on going process. It not only informs,but more importantly it causes engagement. Developing your organization for the future is not an event. More than ever before, in the world market we live and do business in, we better be planning a process for the future.

On a personal note..Thanks!! for 20 years of working around the globe with many of you.I have encountered many wonderful people along the way..I am blessed!

Do You Have Courage?

2010-12-31T16:59:00.000-08:00

Greetings to you in the New Year!

As I talked last time, 2011 will bring some challenges and opportunities for governments, organizations, business and individuals. In the past we've talked about creating wealth. Today I want to talk about the courage it takes to handle money properly.

Like you, I get pretty tired of hearing politicians talk about what they are going to do, and then never doing it.

The words you will hear from both democrats and republicans for the New Year will be directed toward the enormous deficit our country is facing. They will make loud mouth claims saying we must reduce spending after they (the 111th congress) added to the national debt the largest amount of money ever. It's like saying we must lose weight after dedicating your self to eating a box of Twinkies every day for a year! I agree with what Senator Tom Coburn said last week. "The United States will suffer from apocalyptic pain if the nation does not curb its massive debt."

If you think Coburn's comment might be an over statement, look at other countries who couldn't or wouldn't have the courage to implement common sense economic policy. My friends in Greece live in a country that will never be the same economically. Even as I write this post there is bombing in Athens by anarchist who are adding to the despair from the countries financial melt down. Even in the U.K. students are tearing things apart because of the entitlement mentality that countries can't afford any longer. In the U.S. our politicians will make good common sesne statements, the problem is, they don't have the COURAGE to do anything about it. And if they don't acquire that courage quickly, we soon could be going down the same path as Greece, Spain, Portugal and others.

But before we criticize them too much, possibly many of us should look at our own financial situation and lack of courage and do something about our own personal and/or corporate balance sheets. The problem of living beyond our means is systemic. I don't want to be an alarmist, but if individuals and companies don't get serious about money management we will be looking at a bleak financial future.

Look at the following points which have government, personal and organizational implications.

1. You just can't pay for everything or buy everything no matter how well meaning it might be. That's common sense, but we must have the courage NOT to spend. We must understand that some programs and habits MUST be eliminated. This may include meal programs for low income kids, social security benefits, your habits of eating out or providing benefits to employees you can't afford. Unions must come to grips with financial reality and give up their "I want mine regardless" attitudes.

2. A little adds up BIG time. Spending 5 bucks here, 3 dollars there ends up depleting your account quicker than you think. Some in my own family think I'm "tight" with money when it comes to spending but the fact is we are financially healthy (not rich) because of the courage and discipline NOT to spend those little amounts that we encounter each day. The same is true for governments and business. Washington D.C. doesn't even talk billions any more because they have piled up trillions of dollars on our debt with earmarks that, independently, may not look like much but in the whole it is an unsustainable habit and a budget killer.

3. Saving money is not the same as not spending money. In government we can not play games with this area of financial discipline. We must adopt the "just say NO" to seemly good deals and programs. In our personal lives, those after Christmas sales will kill ya! It's still money coming out of your account, so unless you just can't live with out it, don't spend it!

4. Pay your self first. Regardless of your age, make certain you put back 15% of your earnings into your 401, IRA, SEP account. You cannot depend on the government being there for you in the future. Social Security was never meant to be a retirement program to begin with. The new retirement age will probably be 75 yrs. old, if our government has the courage to do something about Social Security entitlement. This applies to business as well. I know of some good organizations who survived the recession because they were not cash poor.

5. Get out of debt. If you have debt hanging over your head now, put in place a plan to pay it off. Don't just say "I will work on getting out of debt.", write down the blueprint of when and how that's going to happen. Then discipline your self to do it. As for your government representatives, hold their feet to the fire this year!! Write them and call them regularly with your thoughts on financial issues. Watch their voting record on every bill and then work to get them out of office if they don't have the courage to make the tough decision to get us out of debt! No more talking, it's time for action. If we as voters do this collectively, we again can take our government back and make sure they work for us.It's time for courage to go along with common sense.

6. Educate your employees and family members about financial issues. This is a constant drum beat of mine. I'm forever blown away at how little people understand sound financial principles. Employees are at a loss to understand the importance of eliminating cost, how wealth is created and the free market system that has made our country the economic power it is. I continue to meet brilliant people who are financial morons. I believe every company should have REGULAR financial education and information available and communicated.

It's true, money won't make you happy. However, financial health will allow you freedom to be generous when it counts, and give you peace of mind which will allow you to work on the other areas of personal, business and government life. There is nothing wrong with having "stuff", but that stuff is a whole lot more fun when it's paid for.

In 2011, let's stop talking and let's have the courage to get our finical houses in order. It really is our future were talking about.

Looking Ahead at 2011

2010-12-17T09:47:00.000-08:00

Well, another year is almost in the books and we are looking at the prospects of Opportunities and Challenges in 2011.

How we deal with varied aspects of our lives and business will determine how successful we will be this time next year. When we look back one year from today and evaluate how we handled both the opportunities presented and how we dealt with the challenges we will probably be able to determine if we handled them, or circumstances and events handled us.

During my next several posts I'll list the opportunities, challenges and strategy for dealing with governments, markets, ethics and personal behavior issues. But today I want to briefly talk about financial considerations both personally and professionally.

Most of you have heard me talk about the two tracks necessary for financial health. 1.) Good money management i.e. saving, cost cutting, taking bold actions to eliminate waste, limit debit etc. 2.) The next track deals with developing revenue streams i.e. making money! This is where I want to camp for few minutes. I want to remind you of the difference between being a good money manager and "creating wealth."

Creating wealth seldom happens by drawing a pay check, asking for contributions, drawing unemployment, saving your money or any other action that allows you to tread water or "get by." Some of these actions may be necessary for the short term but often the short term fix becomes the strategy for corrective action.

We live in a world of entitlement. People commit illegal acts, riot, protest with the insistence of "you owe me." This runs deep in almost every aspect of business, labor, non-profits, churches, education and governments. The amazing thing is to hear how people have hypnotized themselves, through their rhetoric, to actually justify and believe in their entitlement spin.

Companies and individuals who create wealth are never satisfied with the status quo and are willing to take risks that may make them or break them, but are willing to take the chances in order to grow. With high risk comes the possibility of high rewards. What paralyzes people is that with high risk also comes the possibility of failure.

> My dad was a carpenter who lived on a dirt farm that produced very little. He was a good money manager and knew how to squeeze the life out of every dollar he ever had. However, he was just getting by. He did not experience financial health until he took the necessary steps to "create" wealth. Instead of being a carpenter working for an hourly wage, he started his own business building quality homes. He invested heavily into poultry production which turned his pitiful farm into a cash machine.

> Sam Walton went from being a store manager drawing a monthly salary from a large corporation to opening his own store which ultimately evolved into the largest retail organization in the world.

> Rick Warren went from a preacher asking for money to giving away most of what he makes after writing a number #1 best selling (40 million copies) book. The "Purpose Driven Life" gave Warren both fortune and fame. But more than that it gave him a platform for his message.

> The technical world stands still when Steve Jobs announces his yearly "new product." Not satisfied with "getting by" or living on past success, Apple is still a tough competitor with loyal "fans"around the globe.

Some will attribute the above to luck. I believe you make your own luck which includes (but not limited to) talent, strategy, guts, Providence, tenacity, knowledge, wisdom and financial cognizance.

Not every person can start their own business, but every person can create wealth for themselves and for the companies they work for.

In organizations around the world we are lacking in financial knowledge and common sense. If we are going to do more than just survive, we must learn how to create wealth. As I work with organizations around the world, we will be doing just that. We must because I believe during this time of economic uncertainty, traveling down two different tracks must merge into ONE in order to overcome the challenges and take advantage of opportunities of 2011 which will position us to THRIVE, not just survive.

From us to you...Merry Christmas and Press On for a prosperous New Year!

Hypocrite?

2010-12-02T18:39:00.000-08:00

Hypocrite

What an interesting word. What an interesting behavior. Being Hypocritical ...what a destructive behavior.

Often you hear that word in religious context as people offer up a reason for not going to church. They will say "I'm not interested in religion because of the hypocrites in the church." Which in it's self is a ridiculous argument suggesting God will be OK with our behavior because of the poor behavior of others. Since God does not grade on the curve, I doubt that will hold water. But that's a subject for another time.

Today I want to talk about everyday leaders, companies and people who are hypocrites and the damage it manifests daily. Let's start with the common definition.

Hypocrite:
One who puts on a mask and feigns himself to be what he is not; from Greek hypokritēs actor

I will admit that personal experience in recent weeks has caused me to think a lot about hypocrites. I have watched seemingly good people become destructive because of their hypocritical behavior. And of course, as always, I turn inwardly to question my own behavior. We all stumble on occasion and it's easy to point fingers at others but it is more difficult to ask myself the honest question "am I pretending to be something I'm not?"

* Organizations and people should know who they are, not just what they do. And then, they should be checking and double checking their daily behaviors to determine if they have been true to what they claim.

* Having value statements and/or ethical principles communicated but not lived out is more destructive than having none at all.

* You can't pick and choose what you think is right or wrong. There are absolutes.

* A person can never really escape the consequences of deceitful behavior. A secret smoker, a person who tells little white lies, a closet drinker, shading the expense report, taking advantage of position and power, hurtful gossiping about others, being jealous or envious. All will be found out.

As a business coach and advisor to influence leaders, I am required (if I'm going to do my job right) to call out hypocritical behavior that I see. But my advice to others is only meaningful if I'm calling myself out daily on those behaviors which are not congruent with my professed values.

Now the question becomes, "What about you?" "What about your company?" Review what you stand for. What have you compromised on? Have you or your management team become "actors?" Are you Hypocrites with policy, procedures and relationships?

In his recent book, President G.W. Bush said "You may disagree with my policies, but I'm proud to say I did not compromise my principles." I hope in my business and professional life I can say the same.

Press on...

.

Organizations who GET IT!

2010-11-16T12:29:00.000-08:00

This past week I was in Australia working with one of my favorite clients, Dixon Valve and Coupling Company. www.DixonValve.com

Dixon is a unique company, not just because they are a successful 3rd generation company, but because they have a well thought out "holistic" strategy and have constructed a magnificent leadership plan that will sustain them for years to come. Pictured with me is Bob Grace, President of DVCC and Mary Price, Corporate V.P. of Human Resources. Both have been with the company for many years, and have learned the business in side and out. They are both gifted communicators and leaders who have been part of creating the Dixon culture and are members of a coherent transitional management team to take the company into the 4th generation of success.

However, nothing takes place unless there is strong leadership at the top. Dixon has such a man. R.L. Goodall, CEO. Mr. Goodall embodies what true leadership is all about. He "get's it" and, as a result, the company gets it!

* They GET IT when it comes to "As the leader goes, so goes the organization." The leadership team is connected, passionate and committed. To each other and the company.

* They GET IT when communicating the direction of the company. There is no silly slogans, or fuzzy goals. Rather they have a clear, understandable and consistent message as to who they are and where they are going .

* They have a proven track record of consistent employee engagement and development which demonstrates that they GET IT. It's also reflected in compensation programs that are not an "entitlement" but rather a reward for exceptional performance.

* When considering their role as citizens of the community, they GET the fact that it is not a series of community "programs" but a true partnership with the schools, and local government.

* They GET IT when it comes to money. They maintain the proper balance by stressing the importance of profit by educating, rather than lecturing, on waste, cost cutting and necessary investment.

* While striving to be compassionate they GET IT when seeing the difference between being encouraging versus cutting those loose from the organization who are not a fit or who don't add value or don't share the company values. In the book "Good to Great" DVCC adheres to the idea of getting the right people sitting in the right seats on the bus.

* Speaking of Values and Ethics, as part of their clear vision they regularly and consistently discuss the Six Pillars of Character. Respect, Responsibility, Caring, Citizenship, Trustworthiness and Fairness and what that means to individuals who are part of DVCC and their operating principles to live by. The want to make certain that EVERY employee " Get's it."

There is much more I could say about this wonderful company. I suspect they would be happy to share with you their formula for success. It's a story they are quite proud of. I often use them as a model when dealing with other firms I work with. I have had the blessed opportunity to partner with Dixon, at some level, since 1992. There have been many pieces to the puzzle put in place since '92, and I am grateful that I was able to be one of those small pieces for success with a company who truly... Get's It.

Company Austerity

2010-10-28T14:55:00.000-07:00

While working in the Mediterranean region this week I have enjoyed the international news. Sky news, BBC even RT gave me an escape from the U.S. networks 'junk' that fills our programming which range from self absorbed Hollywood "stars", sex and programing of non-reality-reality shows..

One of the big issues followed closely by all in the region is the austerity programs which EU countries are engaging in order to "set things right" and regain financial sanity once again. From a political stand point, the UK, Greece, Germany and others are trying to get their systems where we were (elimination of socialized health care to a privatized system, higher retirement ages etc.), while the Obama administration is trying to drag us to where they are now. Watching our administration operate is disgusting. I admire the guts of the leaders in UK, Germany, and France who are making the tough decisions which may not be all that popular but absolutely necessary.

However, that is not the purpose of my blog today. For many years I have worked to get companies to focus on two primary things. It is my desire that every employee in each organization I work be consumed with these thoughts.

1.) An unrelenting focus on the CUSTOMER. Not just satisfying them but as Seth Godin says "making fans!"

2.) A constant and consistent COST awareness and knowing the difference between error cost (EC) and cost for improvement (COI.)

Accomplishing number one is much easier than the second one. Why? There are many reasons but here's the top 3.

1.) Lack of basic understanding of finance.
We have given over the 'thinking" of money to accountants. Our employees are much smarter than we give them credit for and will help us find money if we will engage them in the process. Our employees don't know because we have not taught them. We have not taught them because it's hard work and (possibly) might take away our leverage in "fooling" them about the financial health of the company. Not only is this unhealthy for the bottom line not to engage them, it also creates suspicion about management efforts to cook the books.

2.) Lack of imagination among accountants and those responsible for the finance of the business.
The standard answer for some accounting types is to automatically say NO to anything that cost money. Many have not seriously considered the true calculation of Cost versus Investment. There are true costs for doing things wrong and the costs to make improvements. It is hard work digging out the difference and making the tough decisions necessary. The best way to make sure nothing goes wrong is do nothing. And "just say no" to spending is the easiest way, but not necessarily the wisest.

3.) The practice of keeping people around who do not add value.
The fact is that most organizations have people sitting in lots of offices or in jobs doing little but still drawing a salary, vacation pay, holidays and other benefits, without contributing or adding value. I see this in almost every organization I work with and always think about how ridiculous this is. Especially in the midst of economic survival conditions. Oh, I know these are people who have been with the firm for awhile and we have gotten use to their presence. They are nice people who come in every day, read, get a few cups of coffee, answer emails and visit with others in the office. BUT... how much work do they actually do in a weeks time that moves the ball down the field? These folks have become "fixed" cost and are never viewed as money being lost.

There is more to say, but let me conclude by saying while there are countries making the hard decisions to survive, I wonder why more business leaders in business don't take a stand and put in place the Company Austerity programs that will position them for not only survival, but financial growth for the global future.

One other thing. Thanks Cyprus and OEB for a great week of work!! You are doing a lot of things right!

Remarkable!

2010-10-04T20:20:00.000-07:00

Remarkable
Merriam-Webster Definition...
"worthy of being or likely to be noticed especially as being uncommon or extraordinary"

A good friend and a professional trainer from Russia spent part of the week-end with me. It's always a pleasure to spend time with this guy because of the great conversations we have about organizational strategy, life and eternal issues. He is a guy who is committed to excellence in all that he does. Inevitably he and I end up talking about managers and leaders. We know a lot of the same people, but most of all we know a lot about the same KIND of people.

Organizations, by in large, are made up of good people who work hard. Smart, loyal, good managers of their jobs or even a department. Some are loud, some are controlling, some are quiet, some are funny. Often you'll find in the ranks deep thinkers as well, shallow/simple thinkers. Some have great ambitions, many live only for the day. Some are status quo protectors. This is not a bad thing, and we all have our place. There are very few who are "remarkable."

The same can be said for business, non-profits, churches, NGO's and government groups. The world blends together and there is little appreciable differences. Rather than striving to be remarkable, groups and individuals are content with gaining market share, satisfying customers and protecting what they've got.

There are tons of managers and leaders who are delusional about their abilities, behaviors and contribution to the whole. Remarkable leaders are not those who intimidate, brag, are show-boats, or self promoters. People put emphasis on Charisma, which to me, is suspect. Leaders are not leaders because they have charisma, they have charisma because they are leaders. If you have to tell someone your a leader, you're probably not.

Remarkable leaders are men and women who:

* Have a clear sense of purpose.

* A constancy of purpose.

* Have an infectious optimistic attitude towards the goal and people.

* Are willing to take risk.

* Are ok with being criticized (and believe me, you will be criticized by
unremarkable people.)

* Are willing to "take it on" i.e. the hard work and resistance (from
a unremarkable population), without becoming discouraged.

Remarkable organizations are all of the above plus more. If you're going to avoid being "wall paper" in a world of commodity brokers, then you must think "remarkable!" Not just good, or even excellent, but...

"worthy of being or likely to be noticed especially as being uncommon or
extraordinary-"

Back to Basics

2010-09-19T09:32:00.000-07:00

Over the past several years I have witnessed both new "gimmicky" management fads and sophisticated systems which are well meaning but fall short in moving organizations forward for desired results. More than that, they sometimes have an adverse effect by confusing the masses on what we are trying to accomplish as an organization. People get mesmerized with their intellectual concepts rather than simplistic practice of sensible, workable and understandable methods.

Lost is the Art and Skill of ....

* Forget your MBA!
What happened to your MBWA? Sam Walton built an empire with his ability to "Manage By Walking Around." He was not stuck in his office pouring over the latest Six Sigma results (which has the potential of protecting the status quo) or the fancy metric indicators. He was out talking to customers, associates and managers. He was finding out first hand what was working and where the gaps were that hindered success.

* Eyeball Skill!
Give me a manager who possesses 1/10th of eyeball skill and he/she will "see" things. Managers who have eye ball skill are managers who find, opportunity for improvement, production and quality issues, laziness, drugs in the work place, sexual harassment, leadership potential of others and a host of other important activities in his/her area. Store managers will SEE what goes on with the customer and associate relationships.

* Curiosity!
People are not curious anymore. Especially managers. They are not asking questions in a sincere way because they have forgotten how to be "curious." They should be constantly asking "why" and "how can we make things better." And of course we should be asking the people who have an intimate relationship with the processes every day i.e. those who actually do the work. Many have lost (if they ever had it) the art/skill of asking questions. They would rather give answers to questions that haven't even been asked.

* Imagination!
Albert Einstein said "Imagination is more important than knowledge." Seth Godin goes on to suggest that leaders create things that didn't exist before. They do this by giving a group a vision of something that could happen, but hasn't (yet). You can't manage without knowledge and you can't lead without imagination.

* Common courtesy!
Simple communication. With the advent of email, facebook and twitter, we have lost the art/skill and common courtesy of talking to people. We have become cowards in facing conflict and have lost the blessing of talking and hearing from close friends and colleagues. We have lost the opportunities to just dialogue . You know...stopping by someone's office and saying..."Hey, let me run something by you." We have the lost the common/professional courtesy of acknowledging that someone has sent us a message, both verbally or by means of technology.

* Simple visuals.
In management we have lost the art/skill of simple measurement charts (hand drawn) and financial information has been replaced with computer generated graphics which are brilliant in apperance, but have become wall paper on most company bulletin boards. Seldom noticed, even less often talked about i.e. communicated.

We don't have to revert to the old ways, and we don't need to throw out the old for the new. Using the new systems and techniques would be good, IF we could regain the ART and SKILL to communicate the meaning and purpose and then use them to connect with people.
Just a thought...

Where is your heart?

2010-09-06T16:14:00.000-07:00

In the United States, every other year, the Labor Day holiday kicks off the fall classic called "political campaigns." For a little over 2 months the electorate will be inundated with political promises, TV commercials and political signs littering the landscape with advertisement of the candidates. The payoff for these tenacious campaigners is the hope that they will be chosen and be called the "elected."

One of the main strategies that all opponents will focus on is the money needed to run a successful assault. There is even a name for it, "the war treasury!" During the primary season there was almost casual reporting by news media of one person who put up 51 million dollars of his own money for his campaign. I could not get my head around the thought of my even HAVING 51 million dollars, let alone spending this obscene amount in such a self absorbed way. I know that the politicians will be able to justify their expenditures by saying it's their money and they can spend it the way they want and that it's worth the personal cost to be able to carry a message that will help the masses. Still, I could not get past the thought of what could be done with that money now to advance greater causes than simply getting one person in another government job. After all, when it's all said and done, our hope is not in any political party and not much will change regardless of who is in office.

As always, I began to think of personal, professional and business implication to this subject of money and how we choose to spend it. I heard a guy say once that he could determine what the priority of a persons life was by looking at their check book, or financial records. People spend money for what they have passion for and love the most. Like me, you may not have 51 mill laying around doing nothing, but you, like me and the politician spend money on those things we care the most about and deem important. Here's a partial list of what some folks I know spend their money on. Their kids and especially their grand kids! Cars, hunting and fishing gear, hobbies, their lawns, homes, social clubs, booze, fashion, food, boats, fitness, and some folks love collecting more money and avoid spending anymore than they need to. Ultimately it all comes down to "it's all about me", and my desires. And just like the politician we can justify our spending habits.

In business, I have watched first hand how companies spend their money. Like individuals they give to those things they are passionate about. But interestingly, it's seldom on people. Oh, I know, we have CEO's who boldly proclaim "that people are our most valuable asset." But if you look at "the books" you will see where their heart really lies. The Society Of Training and Development said that good companies spend between 2 to 3% of payroll dollars in the development and growth activities of their people. Most companies I know, spend less than 1%.

Many people are not strategic in their money management and that is one reason why "giving" is difficult. Most folks will give out of obligation or guilt and do so often times mindlessly based on how smooth the preacher is to share "his vision" or the politician who wants you to join him in his desire to make change. Then there are the slick ads on TV of starving children or abused cats that reel in the dough.

For the most part companies are not strategic in the management of money for the good of those who work for them. We want our people to be loyal, engaged, dedicated but don't want to share in the real gains of the firm and will give only what we can get by with or will sooth our conscience. I'm not suggesting wealth distribution or a socialism approach. Hey, I'm a free market, capitalist guy!! However, I'm also a guy who knows that protecting the status quo is not leadership. When will our corporate leaders become innovative in order to compete world wide?

In the story in the Bible of the widow's offering, Jesus watched rich people put huge amounts of money in the offering plate. He also observed a widow women give two small copper coins worth only a fraction of a penny. He then stated, " This poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything...all she had to live on."

In the U.S. we are still the most generous nation on earth. And I know organizations who are caring and are generous to their employees. The increasing intrusive policies of our government will hinder both levels of giving. But I believe we could do much better if we use our minds to think it through and put our hearts on the right priorities in our business and personal lives. I'm not talking about a bleeding heart, I am talking about a sensible heart. Doing the right thing for the right reasons. The ROI will be huge. When it comes to money, where is your heart?

Prepare Your Employees To Win!

2010-08-24T13:14:00.000-07:00

During the 80's, one of the great management gurus was Edward Deming. His approach in the transformation of company cultures was embraced by the Japanese long before his concepts were in vogue in the United States. His instructions are arguably the reason Japan became the economic super power they have become. The implementation of his principles and the demonstration of excellence is still celebrated annually by the Japanese government by giving the Deming Award to select companies.

His 14 points are still being used by a few firms in the U.S. and there are a handful of courageous leaders who are willing to do the hard work necessary to step away from the pack and do things differently. Known primarily for this measurement systems and SPC methods, many people missed Deming's basic management belief systems. This system was more of the "why" instead of the "how." Many organizations have rejected his philosophies and concepts to embrace the more "trendy" systems like Six Sigma, Lean, Re-engineering, etc. Then there are manages who have become bureaucrats and will not fight the inertia that grips so many in their organizations from change in protection of bureaucratic "silo's."

Many managers I meet want an ABC approach to management and would like for me to give them a formula for successful change. They would like to "program" their companies like CNC machines. But it does not happen that way. Shaping a culture for success is an ongoing process. Like developing world class athletes it requires "back to basics", hard work and discipline.

One of Dr. Deming 14 points is..."Drive out fear." I once thought this meant that we must make certain that our employees were not afraid of losing their jobs, or being afraid of saying something that would cause displeasure of the boss or the fear of punishment for making mistakes.

While those are certainly behaviors in which to be concerned and corrected, there is a much greater fear than those. It is a fear that permeates every level of the organization. It's the fear that paralyzes top executives, middle managers and hourly employees.

It is the fear of being criticized. People are more fearful of being made fun of, dismissed, belittled or being ignored. In other words...people have a greater fear of the critics than of making a wrong decision.

I have watched these fears of criticism manifest themselves in a variety of ways at various levels. Executives are paralyzed into inaction by the fear of lawsuits rather than action which is the right thing to do, even though it might be painful and/or difficult. I've watched employees stand like statues in group meetings when the managers ask for ideas or improvement. They prefer to say nothing than take the chance of being told...."we've tried that before, it will never work, we can't do that." Suggestion boxes collect candy wrappers and dust rather than ideas for improvement because of the fear the boss will put them down in some way. Arm chair quarterbacking and 2nd guessing peoples ideas and actions are common place in business around the world. Sadly, many have exchanged doing what is right in order to avoid having decisions criticized.

True Leaders "initiate!" True leaders allow others to "initiate" with out fear.

How is "driving fear out" accomplished? Well, I'm glad you asked! The freedom to express is created by the leadership in a firm. Creating an environment in which people can express themselves and take action without FEAR of being criticized does not happen naturally.

At Gore-Tex, employees are asked to consider two questions before acting on their ideas. If they can answer yes to both of them, then they can proceed with their ideas and actions.

Question #1...Is your idea and plan good for Gore-Tex? If the answer is Yes, you're half way home.
Question #2...If you're wrong, can we survive? The amount of careful discussion, consultation, checking and double checking by the individuals allows them the freedom to dream and initiate like few firms experience. Why? Because they have taken away the fear that someone will criticize them. Of course there is much more to the story, but extensive effort is given to create this special environment.

Transforming a company is hard work. Mostly because it's all about dealing with the psychology of business and the behavior of people. The freedom to do things (beyond task) is a rare event in most companies. Being criticized will make you feel bad, but if that's the worst thing that can happen, it's worth the effort for taking action. Deming had it right! Drive out fear if you want engaged employees rather than people who have become extensions of machines and cubicles.

Unleash the minds of the people you work with by taking away "fear." You will be uncommon as a leader and as a company because of uncommon behavior. Mental toughness is important for success. Prepare your employees and company to win.

Exceptionalism

2010-07-31T19:31:00.000-07:00

For weeks my brain has been swirling over a word and concept. EXCEPTIONALISM. I have been haunted by the fact that in the U.S., we now have an administration which does not think our country is "exceptional." They have trotted around the world apologizing for who we are and claiming we are just like everyone else. But the fact is, we are great because we are exceptional.
There has never been a country like ours, and chances are pretty good there never will be again. And, it's my opinion that we are in danger of losing our exceptionalism.

The following is not a political "post" but, rather, a reflection on what it means to be exceptional and the difference between being arrogant and how that translates into business thinking.

Unfortunately there are many companies and countries who have good people who provide good products and services but will never reach exceptional status. There are many reasons they will never become exceptional, but one reason is they do not believe they are exceptional. Rather, they have a defeatist or fatalist mentality.

Exceptionalism: The condition of being different from the norm....

People love and hate a "success story." They love to cheer those who are trying to make it, but then they love to hate them when they do make it and become successful.

Take a look at Sam Walton. A rags to riches love story back when he was a struggling entrepreneur, but now it's fashionable to demonize the worlds largest company because they are winners and EXCEPTIONAL! The New York Yankees are good partly because they know they are good.They know that they are EXCEPTIONAL. And yes, because America has been successful as a country, it seems quite alright and fashionable for others in the world to jump on the band wagon and criticize us because of our exceptionalism.

When moving organizations toward a higher level of excellence and success I work a LOT at the psychology of WHO they are, more than WHAT they do. Becoming Exceptional starts in the thinking process. I'm not suggesting the ridiculous notion of "believe and it will happen", but rather a sincere belief that you are more and offer more than the competition. That you are different and not the norm.

Exceptional organizations:

* Know who they are and what they stand for.
* Communicate to ALL stake holders how they are different from the norm.
* Are not arrogant, but confident.
* Show humility. It's part of their exceptionalism .
* Are not distracted by critics when they know they are operating on solid ground.
* Do not compromise principles. Going along to get along is a loser, not exceptional.
* Have a history and track record of winning.

Are you and/or your firm exceptional? What are you doing to become exceptional or are you satisfied with being the norm? As a guy who moves organizations to excellence, I know becoming exceptional is not another company program, system or "flavor of the month" activity. It's much more and much deeper. It's the feeling, thinking and acting exceptional that will set you apart. As always, there is more instruction of "How to" than what is allowed in this limited space of blog.

But think about it. Is your business exceptional? And do your customers, employees, community and suppliers think you are? You can move your company toward the satisfying awareness of being different from the norm. And so can a country with Exceptional Leadership.

The Disease of ME!

2010-06-12T09:18:00.000-07:00

Years ago, the head coach of the L.A. Lakers Basketball team was a guy by the name of Pat Riley. He was extremely successful as a professional coach. In his book " The Winner Within: A Life Plan for Team Players" he had some interesting insights about teams that win and the type of team members it requires for on going success. Although it's been awhile since I read the book, I remember a statement which I paraphrase "Many players have a terminal disease. It's called the disease of "ME." He went on to explain that an organization can never reach it's full potential if it has a bunch of players who are only interested in "self" and are unwilling to sacrifice for the good of the entire group.

In our world today we have many examples of people and organizations who are demonstrating this destructive behavior and the terminal disease that will bring down countries and companies.

When I see people in Greece "riot" in the streets and scream "I want mine" even though the government is broke, I see a group of folks who have the "disease of me."

When I see people in U.S. firms who continually complain about the reduction of pay and the layoff of employees, that was absolutely necessary to keep the business afloat, and they still scream "I want mine!" I see a group of people who have the "disease of me."

When I see company board members who are willing to "stick it to the little guy" in order to maintain a generous return for themselves and shareholders including bonus and insist " I want mine!" then I see the "disease of me."

When I see people cross into this country illegally and demand " I want mine!" then I see...well, you know what I see.

Our world is still in the throes of an unprecedented economic situation. Many people who are either delusional or uninformed are holding out for a "V" shaped recovery, and have hypnotized themselves to believe that all will soon be back to the way it used to be. In all probability it will not. As a matter of fact I'm convinced we still have many difficult times ahead of us on the world stage and we will see a volatile market for several more years to come. But that does not mean all is bad. As a matter of fact, I think there is some real growth opportunities for companies and people who want to behave like grown ups, and take a sober view of the realities and make the needed adjustments.

Unfortunately many, many people are ignorant to sound economic principles. We have not taught our children the fundamentals in school and have confused sound financials with political ideology. So, we in business will be required to fill the void. If we as leaders don't fill that void, then someone else will, and it may not be for the "whole's" best interest because of the "disease of me." (I could give names, but won't..just call me and we'll talk) Here is what we should do.

* We must stop doing "training programs" as usual and begin an education process that involves everyone hearing and discussing the same things that are of importance.

* We should routinely and consistently teach economics 101 and how that fits our companies and present strategic business plan.

* Honest and frequent communication from the top leaders of our organizations should be informing the masses as to the present situation and future plans.

* Save for a rainy day! Just because things might get a little better does not mean we spend it as we get it, or go into unsustainable debt just so everyone can get "mine."

* Communicate "simple" mission and value principles in which to run your organizations.

* Build of a culture of TRUST. This is not an event but an on going "managed process." It can be done. I know because this is what I do as I walk with organizations who want to do more than just operate as if they have the "disease of me."

Press on...

CHARACTER FLAWS ADD UP

2010-04-24T13:26:00.000-07:00

It's been said that "Great people talk about ideas......average people talk about themselves and small people talk about others.

The character flaw of Cynicism (as discussed last time) will create a negative atmosphere within an organization. When people work for a boss who is habitually critical or suspicious of new ideas, suggestions or people the group will be drained of positive energy. Lost opportunity and negative attitudes are the result of a cynical leader.

A manager with the character flaw of engaging in pettiness, will not only discourage the masses, but they will destroy their effectiveness and creditability. Being "petty" is to be small minded. Definition: typical of a small-minded person: marked by pettiness, narrowness, or meanness-conduct.

I know some very smart managers who appear unable to resist a very bad habit of talking about other people or about petty things. Years ago I worked with a CEO who was brilliant in marketing, sales and other disciplines of running a business, but who regularly engaged in gossipy, belittling comments about other managers. He seemed to take great joy in talking about his dislike of their personality, how they ran their departments or pointing out mistakes which he perceived as inadequate.

I know of a company where they call meetings to talk about someone they don't like and spend endless hours talking about petty issues. Most organizations have their gossips, but this company has taken it to a new level by encouraging people to talk about others. They have misplaced an "open door" policy with a habit of talking about any body at any time and give it legitimacy if it serves their purpose. They have created a culture of gossip in a formal way in the guise of seeking information. It has become so pervasive, it is now impossible to distinguish what is truth. Part of the damage for this group is they have replaced "brain storming" with "blame storming" sessions.

Families, Churches and groups which should embody "togetherness", are torn apart by petty issues and talking about others.

Why do people engage in pettiness?

1) Insecurity of their own abilities. If they can get you looking at someone else's short comings you will not see theirs or see the truth. Example: Look at government leaders who belittle people who disagree with their policies.

2) CYA activities are great reasons for people to behave in a small minded manner.

3) Immaturity...plain and simple.

4) People love "dirt" and some people love the attention received by providing that dirt.

5) People prefer to deal with insignificant petty problems because they are easier to deal with than the tough issues facing the group.

What will happen when a leader or manager allows this behavior?

* They will lose respect and credibility.

* The organization will be paralyzed away from growth and improvement because of distrust of others.

* Communication will be shut down because individuals will fear that what they might say will, in some weird way, come back to haunt them.

* Divisions between departments and individuals will form, walls of discontent will be built.

* Companies will find people fighting against each other rather than fighting the real enemy i.e. the competition.

* You might find your self with legal problems.

Business is hard, and it's getting harder everyday! The last thing you should be doing is spending your valuable time dealing with pettiness. How do you stop it? There is a way, but the answer is to long for this blog. I'll be glad to show you the way if pettiness and or gossip is a problem in your firm. But at the very least, make certain you don't engage in the silly, unproductive, destructive activity of pettiness and gossip.

Why Managers Fail...

2010-04-05T14:54:00.000-07:00

One of the wonderful benefits of doing what I do for a living is the exposure to many different organizations and to the people who are responsible for shaping what these organizations become and how they operate. I have a unique vantage point in which to view how managers and leaders think and behave.

Anyone who knows me professionally, has often heard me say..."As the Leader goes...so goes the organization." Over the years, I have observed two fatal behavior flaws that will keep a manager from ever becoming a great leader. These character flaws will not only hinder growth but actually causes managers and leaders to fail in spite of their "programs" efforts to empower, engage, or motivate their work force.

Cynicism and Pettiness

Today, I want to talk about the first of these flaws. Cynicism. As the modern understanding, cynicism is "an attitude of scornful or jaded negativity, especially a general distrust of the integrity or professed motives of others."

Having been raised by a cynic, and fighting against the increasing cynical societies we live in, I have a pretty good idea of what causes this cynicism. As described by some, cynicism can manifest itself as a result of frustration, disillusionment, and distrust perceived due to organizations, authorities and other aspects of society.

As I observe organizational managers and department heads I see that there is more to cynicism than the ole "glass half full - half empty" mentality. Additionally, cynicism cannot be cured simply with the "the power of positive thinking" or the Joel Osteen belief that "God only wants what's best for your life." All of that sounds good, but it's completely bogus.

As part of my responsibilities in "Shaping Companies for Success " , I stress the importance of implementation of three essentials .

1.) Thinking differently. 2.) Acting Differently. 3.) Managing differently.

It's easy to talk about these three issues but they require on going coaching efforts in order to move an organization away from cynical habits. Many businesses will not hire a business coach because they are cynical about the motives and cost of the professional business coach. For this group, they will miss the investment opportunities for real and healthy organizational growth.

Being a cynic allows you to move into the most popular excuse for under achievers, that of the Victim! Over the years I have heard many reasons (excuses) why people and organizations can't achieve success. Here are just a few.

"I'm not white enough." I'm not black enough." "I'm not rich enough." "I'm not poor enough." "I'm not young enough." "I'm not old enough." "I'm not thin enough." I'm not fat enough." "You don't understand the "culture" of our country or... the "culture of our company." "The problems we have with the government." "The way I was raised by my mommy and daddy." The issues I've had to deal with in my life"... blah, blah, blah blah, blah.

If you have a cynical mind your cynicism will be reflected in your family and your organization. I know. I once was one, and still battle the temptation. Most people in companies and homes will not rise any higher than their leader. A true achiever will move out of a cynical environment as soon as possible because it just does not fit who they are and can't stand the negativity of it all.

Achievers in life are wired completely different. The first things they see are not obstacles. They see opportunities and are challenged. They believe in something! They are loyal to something! They are dedicated to something!

Think of the great leaders you know. Sports athlete's, politicians, business guys like Richard Branson,CEO of Virgin Airlines, who sees opportunities and thinks he can actually accomplish whatever he goes after. Most of the times he does, some times he doesn't, but that does not deter him. He's nobodies fool or just a dreamer. He's reasonable and smart. He has NOT been jaded by institutional thinking. Recently he admitted in a management conference, that it was several years before he truly understood the difference between gross and net profit. Here is a guy who is always going after achievement and adventure rather than money. This is what he says about life.
"I don't think of work as work and play as play. It's all living."

True achievers, look at the world and see what IS and what's possible. Cynics look at the world and see what isn't. As a habit, cynics look for what is wrong first.

The result? They are suspicious of everyone and everything at some level which hinders growth of the organization. As hard as you might try, you will fail as a leader if you are caught up in cynicism.

Whenever I begin working with a new client, I'm almost always warned by some cynic to "be careful"of something or somebody. Over the years I have learned not be cynical before I have the chance to experience the "treasure" of people and the firms I work with.

In my next post, I want to explain the silly, unprofessional habit of pettiness, and what you must do to eradicate it from your firm. In the mean time, think about your habits and those of the people in your firm. Do you have an organization full of cynics or are they people with healthy minds about who they are and the people they work with and for.

Nothing New Under The Sun

2010-03-11T17:14:00.000-08:00

Solomon, the wisest man who has ever lived said "there is nothing new under the sun."

He told us in the book he wrote that all of man's great ideas and scheme's have been tried before.
He personally, was rich enough, talented enough and "connected" enough to see that all of our wonderful insights fall into the categories of vanity, folly and meaningless.

I just returned from three weeks of work in Cyprus and Greece. I had the opportunity to see some wonderful companies who struggle with the same sort of challenges that businesses do all around the world. There's "Nothing new under the sun."

As I sat in my hotel room at night, reading or watching television, the news media regularly reported to us the depressing economic conditions which are plaguing Greece (and other countries in that region) They also reported about the governments, unions, banks irresponsible practices which has led their people toward more financial pain.
I wrote my Congressman in the United States to tell him I was getting a preview of what the U.S. was getting ready to experience in the future if the ruling party continued down their social agenda. "Nothing new under the sun."

I read about Tiger Woods and his so called "addiction" and wondered why we can't (or refuse to) call it what it truly is....Irresponsible behavior that has caused permanent pain for his wife and children. After all he's not the first powerful rich guy who thought the rules of proper moral behavior did not apply to him. "Nothing new under the sun."

I also listened to many employees who work under the pressure of managers and business owners who treat them like expendable by-products of their money making agenda's. "Nothing new under the sun."

But I also met some wonderful managers who are positive about the future. They are more than willing and very eager to take the world on as if it was just created and to express their ideas like it's never been tried before. For these folks I'm encouraged and energized. And for them I offer the following reminders.

* Government does not create wealth, they consume it.

* No one owes you anything, but people will be willing to pay you for providing outstanding value to them and to their firms.

* Be a problem solver not a complainer or problem identifier.

* People will always criticize you when you give your best. Give the best you can anyway.

* Be faithful to your commitments. This includes your employers, your family and your spouse. Don't run away just because it gets tough.

* Companies and individuals who master the skill of communication will be leaders in business and in life.

* The lack of honest and open communications will cause distrust, suspicion and problems for you and your firm.

* Every person and company should know their PURPOSE and live according to ethical principles.

Nothing is new under the sun! It's all been tried before. HOWEVER... if we know our purpose and do the right things for the right reasons, we can all still be a breath of fresh air in a world of stale ideas and problems.

Oh yeah, Solomon had it right if you want to read the last three paragraphs of his book called Ecclesiastes.

Press on...

The PROCESS of Being the Best

2010-02-09T06:08:00.000-08:00

This weekend begins the 2010 winter Olympics in Vancouver. What a great event this is to watch. The best athletes in the world come to one location to put on display the culmination of their efforts, and the results are the payoff for the years of work and discipline.

Being an active guy myself who has run races, played football and even enjoyed the sport of snow skiing I appreciate world class athletes who reach the pinnacle of their sports.

Everything that it takes to reach this level of excellence inspires me because so few people are willing or capable of that sort of effort. I know people who would love to be in better physical condition but are not willing to go through the PROCESS required for a body that is healthy and fit. The same is true in business. I know many leaders who aspire to be the best, but are missing some of the critical ingredients necessary in the process to realize that distinction. The young people you will see on your TV starting February 12th did not wake up one morning and decide winning Olympic gold sounds like a good thing to do. They went through the long process of becoming great.

The following are some of the PROCESS steps they took toward being the BEST!

1.) They had a clear vision, along with goals, of where they wanted to go and how to get there!

2.) They had a realistic view of their ability, strengths and limitations!

3.) They had a constancy of purpose!

4.) They understood the discipline necessary for success!

5.) They bought the best equipment!

6.) They were willing to take risk!

7.) They were willing to invest time and money into the PROCESS!

8.) They secured the best coaches available!

9.) They listened to instruction given and then made the necessary adjustments!

10.) They understood that good was not good enough and were willing to pay the price to excel which is to go beyond average = Excellence!

We live in a world wanting instant results. Examples: A.) Our stupid government leaders insisting on more bail out money to bring us out of the recession. B.) An unrealistic over night fix of our health care system. C.) The New Years resolution of weight loss. D.) The drive for more people and money in our churches and non-profits. E.) The sudden changes in our business practices and policies.

We all know, intellectually, that instant success is a ridiculous prospect and we also know that becoming GREAT is a PROCESS not an event. But...many look for the silver bullet anyway. Leaders looking for overnight success never consider the long haul.

Take close a look at the 10 steps listed above. Rate yourself or your organization in the process steps. Where are you now? What are you willing to do in order to improve the PROCESS?

The New Year Reality

2009-12-25T15:02:00.000-08:00

No question about it, 2009 was an unusual year and now we are blessed to look 2010 straight in the eye.

As I observe how people and business have reacted to the past, it will be intriguing to see how they will handle the "crisis" of economic and personal life issues of the future.

Some may sign up with Koler who said....

"My past depresses me, my present bores me and the future scares me to death."

Some may follow the thinking of feel good preachers and self help guru's who will proclaim "The best is out there waiting for you! God only wants the very best for your life. All you have to do is grab hold of it." This often translates in to buy my book or send in a contribution.

Then there are those who are either delusional, lazy, or risk divergent which will result in taking no action at all. They hope all will work it's self out and that things will improve with time. The Beatles had the right theme song for this group...

"No Where Man."

"He's a real nowhere man,
Sitting in his Nowhere Land,
Making all his nowhere plans
for nobody.

Doesn't have a point of view,
Knows not where he's going to,
Isn't he a lot like you and me?"

None of this can deal with REALITY. There are no quick fixes in the business market or life. People will not have instant money, meaningful relationships, healthy bodies, financial stability or a sustainable business by any of the unrealistic strategies or (as they said in the sixties) "turning on and dropping out."

The Reality for 2010 is this...

* Business will continue to be slow through 2010. Those organizations who are doing more than just "cutting back" are preparing for the New Business Reality. They will do more than just adapt. They will be coaching, they will be more customer focused than ever before. They will be disciplined with thoroughly considered plans and strategies. They are contacting guys like me to help them see things they can't see themselves. I have been privileged to help many through this process.

* "It's Relationships first and then Success." Wanna have a successful marriage? Successful business? Successful spiritual life? It all starts with seeking, building and working on healthy and realistic relationships.

* For long term financial well being, there is no substitute for sound financial planning and financial management. I know people with Doctoral degrees, super sales people and skilled craftsmen who are "financial morons. "

There are two ways to effect the bottom line. 1) Increase revenue. 2) Reduce waste. I have a system that helps identify each. Read books (Dave Ramsey is outstanding), become informed on how to hold and handle your resources so you'll be prepared to weather the financial crisis of the future.

* Having a life style of physical exercise and living healthy, has on going benefits and reduces the adverse effects of stress. Stop smoking, stop whining, stop eating and drinking to excess. Rather, get up off the couch and do SOMETHING! I, personally, will never be a body builder, Olympic athlete or pro football player, but my daily routine keeps this 'ole man looking as good as I can with what I've got ( and it's not much, but I'm thankful for it.)

* Government Reality. In the U.S. we are presently living under the most anti capitalist and free-market system in recent memory. Social and government programs do not create wealth, they consume wealth. The prevailing anti business climate is a result of arguably greedy practices, however the pendulum swing may prove to be permanently devastating to our country if corrective action is not taken.

2010 is the year that "politics as usual"must end. The old practices of bringing home the "pork" for the home state or alignment to a political party will kill us for the future. CAMPAIGN now!! LOBBY now!! VOTE now!! Remove those in D.C. who are sacrificing our future for a social agenda.

All of this is part of a reality called "life." Prepare for it. It's never too late. It's not rocket science and it's certainly is not new but I stand amazed at how few people and businesses purposely and intentionally develop the strategy and discipline to face the future. They would rather make a "new years resolution" that will leave them about the same 12 months from now, just a little rougher around the edges.

Those who are willing to do something different... be different... be disciplined and strategic will have a wonderful and HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Putting The Pieces Together

2009-12-15T15:10:00.000-08:00

While returning home I read, again, Peter Druckers statement " You ought to be able to fit your Mission Statement on the front of a T-shirt."

This past week was another great week for me! I was able to spend time working with some wonderful professional friends in Montenegro.

During my time there I was able to speak at the Chamber of Commerce in the capitol city, a couple of universities and some large businesses. It was a very busy and exciting time. As I stood in a large auditorium in front of young college kids answering questions about life and business, I was reminded of my "T-Shirt" mission statement. While listening to some executives...who are very intelligent but confused...about direction and strategy it re-enforced the fact that there are many people and companies who just don't "get it." Oh they have read the books, they have attended seminars and they have tried to follow the latest self help steps on CD's or mandates of authoritative people. However, their lack of follow through indicates that they have an "intellectual understanding but there is a disconnect between knowledge and practical application."

Many companies have training budgets. Some small...some HUGE. These budgets can provide entertaining presentations for the employees but have little connection to where the company is going because the company, as a whole, doesn't "get it."

Kids go to universities and take courses that they hope will make them "successful" but during it all, many just don't "get it."

Guys like Tiger Woods who make billions of dollars and operate with a self centered existence are destroying their influence for good and within their families because they just don't "get it".

Then you have society who will excuse guys like Tiger as having some sort of addiction. We want to excuse despicable behavior and not hold men accountable because society doesn't "get it."

Having the blessed opportunity of being a business coach all these years working with some talented people, along with the God Given gift to "see" what others can't, has given me something that most consultants and so called trainers will never get. I don't know it all, but because I'm older, wiser and still learning I know a lot and have the opportunity to help people and companies "get it" in strategic planning, behavior modification, leadership development etc. Certainly I like getting paid and I enjoy watching companies and people become successful, but there is no way to describe the thrill in my soul when, while working with folks, I watch the light come on as they "get it!!"

Oh yeah, my "T-Shirt" Mission statement all these years has been?

"Helping People Get It"

It may seem simple, but there's a lot involved in the process. I have a blessed life.

And by the way, during this holiday season, my hope is that you will get it, as you reflect on the true meaning of Christ...mas!!

Press On...

LOST

2009-11-23T15:36:00.000-08:00

Calling myself a frequent flyer is a bit of an understatement. I have logged 3 million miles on American Airlines alone. Not sure what the total would be considering all the other major airlines along with obscure ones like Uzbek Air, Aegean Air, Thai Airlines etc.

During the many years and miles of travel I've never lost luggage. Delayed yes, but never lost. That record ended on my recent trip back from Cyprus. It has been almost a month now and still no one seems to know where my bags are. Some of my best suits and ties were in that bag along with cuff links, shoes and training material. Not important articles in the big scheme of things, but nice things I wish I had not lost.

During the process of making property claim with the airlines, I began to think about real loss. Loss of things which are much greater than just a bunch of clothes. I thought of such things as loss of family members, loss of good health, loss of money or a job because of the economic crisis. I thought about how many people just don't know how to deal with loss because their life is dependent on something or someone. I also thought about the loss of a persons good reputation and name because of foolish choices. As leaders we may be confronted with tempting situations in our personal and professional lives. The choices we make may determine whether...or not... we will suffer a life time loss of an overall quality of good character. Here's a few things to think about before you have to make those choices.

1. Know who you are and what you stand for.

2. Determine where your values come from and why they are important.

3. Determine what is most important in your life and stay focused.

4. Determine to be a man/woman of unyielding integrity.

5. Write your values down and review them regularly.

6. Honor your commitments to your friends, spouse, family, clients and to God.

I know what my "Center" is. As a result, I might lose everyTHING, but won't suffer LOSS.

Press on...

2009-11-13T14:49:00.000-08:00

Giving Back ..... Novemeber 2009 Moscow Russia

In his book "Finishing Well" Bob Buford talks about the transition of going from success to significance, moving from the activity of making money to making a difference in the lives of individuals, societies and communities of this world. He then gives his readers several examples of how this has been done through a number of case studies. Some of these "how to" examples come from well known personalities like Peter Drucker, Roger Staubach, Ken Blanchard and others who have found ways to "Give Back" to the world community in various ways.

In addition to operating Extension Management as a Business Coach, I am also President of my own 501c3 company which is dedicated to mobilizing businessmen and women to places like Russia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Bulgaria etc. This past week we have worked with "The English Exchange" in Moscow. We are a group of business professionals who desire to have a positive impact on the lives of people living in emerging countries and economies. We teach at Universities, and conferences about business leadership, values, ethics, processes etc. We want to connect with young professionals who don't have the same benefits we have here in the U.S. for professional development opportunities. Conscious of how blessed we have been in business we want to "give back" by sharing our knowledge which has set us on the path of success. We are continually seeking ways to pour back into these less developed locations some of the richness we have enjoyed over the years.

There is a old saying "you will not be remembered for what you got, but what you gave." The most satisfied and happiest leaders I know have found ways to "give back" to others. Here are just a few ideas about how you might do the same thing.

1. Give time and money to your local boys or girls club.

2. Coach a ball team or swim team.

3. Volunteer in a soup line or participate in food distribution programs

4. Giving money is the easiest, but all non profits still need the $$ to keep going.

5. Be a "Character Counts Coach" in your local school.

6. Find a church that has an active outreach structure.

7. Be a guest speaker at the Community College for business..... Do it for FREE.

8. Call me and find out how to get connected world wide

The lines between what I do to make money in business, and the work I do as a non-profit have begun to blur. I'm so much a part of both activities that they seem as one. I'm grateful for that. By being intentional, focused and balanced I can stay on track as I strive to "Finish Well."

Excellence in Cyprus

2009-10-28T10:17:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago I left the country of Cyprus where I was working with an excellent organization called OEB. They are a non-profit who serve industry and business throughout this delightful little country. Small in size but huge in desire and potential. Maria S. and Petros P. from OEB are two of the most outstanding people I have ever worked with. Everything they did in connection with the conference and on-site professional visits was done with excellence. Thank you!!

If ever there was a guy who appreciates Excellence, I'm the guy. I love watching people going above and beyond the normal. Regardless if it's athletics, business or personal life, I admire excellence! Excellence comes from the word excel which means to go beyond average.

Most people are satisfied with "average." A "C" grade in school has become good enough or even worse (as we use to joke in college) "2.0 and roll." We have developed a mind set of good is good enough.

You can see it in vision statements from companies's that declare their desire of "meeting customer expectations." Hey! How about "exceeding" customer expectations? You see this "average " mentality with companies' who are making "budget plan" which has become the driving force of the organizations. You even see it in the sloppy, casual appearance of over weight and out of shape young professionals.

In Jim Collins book "Good to Great" he brilliantly illustrates how good has become the enemy of companies and why they will never experience GREAT. Why? Because of their satisfaction with normal or good enough.

It's the little things that carry you and your firm beyond average. This is what I experienced with OEB and several companies throughout Cyprus.

I view excellence as a life style and attitude more than a mandated company policy. Often it's the little things that are not required that push people into the "beyond average" category. People and organizations who are "class acts" behave with excellence ALL the time. Here are some examples.

1. Starting on time for meetings and appointments.

2. Being where you say your going to be when you say you'll be there.

3. Getting off your butt (guys) while the plane is loading to help a struggling woman lift a bag in an over head bin.

4. Looking for those opportunities to help, rather than turning away when you see someone lost or confused.

5. Having an agenda and plan which is thoroughly communicated to everyone affected well in advance.

6. Insuring that you begin your day by remembering that you really are "no big deal" but have been blessed by God to have what you have and be in a position of influence for the greater good.

7. Answering emails regularly and in a timely manner as a habit (a specific pet peeve of mine.)

8. Be kind. Something lost in today's society. Just plain ole "kindness" to every person regardless of social or economic status.

9. Establishing a healthy life style and looking like a person of excellence. As my friend Mary Price says "dress for the job you want, not for the job you have."

10. Giving a genuine "Thank you" when deserved . Which brings me to...Thank YOU Cypriot professionals for your demonstration of excellence!

Work with "Purpose"

2009-10-07T20:18:00.001-07:00

This week I begin a somewhat intense travel schedule. My first assignment of two weeks will be in Cyprus. I will be working with a very fine organization called OEB who serve Employers and Industrialists throughout this beautiful country. I'm excited to present a 2 day Seminar to HR professionals and then conduct a series of "On-Site" company visits. The rest of the Fall will find me traveling and working in Russia, Montenegro and, possibly, Greece.

With challenging economic issues worldwide many companies are exploring new markets, process and opportunities like never before. I'm no different. I too, am looking to expand my business borders and am actively reaching out to new territories. Great organizations are always looking down the road for the next big thing or that next big idea. I'm grateful that people are asking me for guidance in a variety of business methods to enhance growth and profit inside their firms.

When I went into private practice several years ago, I sat down with pen in hand to capture what was in my heart and head concerning my business life and purpose as an executive coach and teacher. Those items I listed have never changed and coupled with my operating principles I have had little regret for the roads I have traveled in the past 20 years. I have made a positive impact on the businesses and in the lives of people that I have worked with. In return they have enriched and taught me many things as well.

A business friend of mine who works for DVCC in Maryland has some basic questions he asks people to answer concerning their jobs.

Is it fun?

Is it equitable?
Am I recognized?

Is it mine?
Is it meaningful?

Is it challenging?
Am I needed?

Am I wanted?

Those last two are my additions. I have always told CEO's and Presidents that there are two things which must be present before I will take them on as a client. I must be wanted, and I must be needed. Those statements, answered in the affirmative, will allow me to work with "purpose" around the world.

What about you? How do you answer the above questions? Let me know

Leaders/Managers Who Lie

2009-09-11T21:05:00.000-07:00

YOU LIE!
Were the words yelled out this week by Rep. Joe Wilson during a joint session of the U.S. Congress as the president was giving a speech about health care. Those two words had the immediate effect of sucking all the oxygen out of the room and a collective “gasp” heard throughout the house chamber. In addition, those two words, (and the time and place where they were uttered), has created a feeding frenzy among political pundits and news media organizations.

What has been so interesting to me is the focus that has been given to the decorum rather than the substance of the argument which facilitated the out-burst to begin with! In my opinion there are few things worse than being accused of being a liar or even being suspected of being a person who lives a lie.

Lying is “to make an untrue statement with the intent to deceive or to create a false or misleading impression.”

Unfortunately most people do not believe what our government leaders have to say and accuse them of the constant habit of lying in order to further their own political agenda. Also, it has been my experience over the past 40 years that most employees do not trust management or their leaders of telling the truth and nothing but the truth.

We discuss ethics often on this site. It seems only fitting this week to jot down a few reminders to you who are leaders in business, home, family or community. As you review this partial list surrounding truthfulness, consider for yourself the exchange and the substance of the Congressional out-burst. As well, reflect on your own personal experience of “liars” and do a self check of your integrity and perceived truthfulness.

· A half truth or a partial truth is still a lie. There is no such thing as a little lie.

· In sales there is a term called “puffing” which implies exaggeration of the truth is ok, in order to motivate someone to buy. Wrong! It’s still lying!!

· Openly religious people who live different than their professed belief, are liars. The secular world will term them as “hypocrites” which means “actors” not living congruent in action or words.

· Business leaders and managers who espouse ethics statements yet “shade the truth” to get the deal or to stay out of trouble with employees, vendor, customers etc., are liars plain and simple.

· Husbands and wives who have made a commitment before man and God to “forsake all others” yet are flirtatious when away from their partners or visit web sites that are unhealthy and damaging for a truthful & faithful relationship are liars.

When it comes to dealing within your business, communicate often with employees, the good and the bad. Tell what you can as soon as you know it. Saying nothing gives the impression your “hiding something." It may be necessary to call them together and tell them, “ I can’t say much right now, but here is what I can say.” You will build a reputation of an honest leader.

Tell only what you know!! I have witnessed a lot of people who feel compelled to answer any and every question even when they don't have a clue of the true answer. As a result, they talk and talk and talk without saying much of anything. They end up making it up as they go along. If you don’t know the answer, then say... "I don’t know." That’s honesty.

With customers always remember that they are your livelihood. Shading the truth today shows contempt towards your customers, and it will cost you business later on down the road.

Someone once said..."When you lose your integrity, everything else gets easy." In other words, if you find it easy to lie or shade the truth, then you will have no problems with stealing, cheating or any number of things that are not right because your conscience has been seared to rightful actions. Don’t try and justify your words or actions. The means do not justify the end. Our country needs TRUTHFUL LEADERS...Our companies need TRUTHFUL LEADERS.

The Problem With Teaching Ethics

2009-09-03T03:35:00.000-07:00

I have a very good friend who believes that people are basically good. Although I appreciate his positive out look on human beings, it does make me wonder why he, his firm (and many organizations like his), spend so much time talking about ethics and character issues if this is truly their core belief about people.

Ethics (also known as moral philosophy) is a branch of philosophy which seeks to address questions about morality. Ethics is what we are not and do not naturally possess as human beings. Therefore, we must be taught what we are to become and reinforce that "mantra."

For me, my personal ethical belief includes a theological component which is too involved to discuss now. Since "ETHICS" is not clearly understood, taught in cultural context or environmentally consistent the question becomes "should ETHICS and CHARACTER issues be taught in business settings?" The answer is yes. But...the why and how are important factors to consider. Here is a short list of considerations when embarking on your Ethics/Character Education.

1. I agree with Peter Drucker. "It's not business ethics, it's ethics, period!" You can not separate what you are from work life and personal life.

2. Telling is not teaching or Training. Statements in handbooks and plaques on the wall are good, but that, alone, does not insure people "get it."

3. Know what you believe and why you believe it. Are ethics and character just a knowledge based issue for you or is it a deep seeded part of who and what you are? How does that square with the mission, vision and purpose of your company?

4. From what source do you establish or draw your ethical standard and belief? From your parents, religion, your big brain or from another fragile human being?

5. As a leader of your home or business tell others what you stand for. Part of the problem with our country and businesses is that we have gutless men and women who are more concerned with political correctness instead of moral integrity.

6. Surround yourself with those who have the same conviction as you and your firm. If they do not have it, get rid of them. Help them find a job with the competition.

7. Live your ethical belief. Every day...Every minute of the day...Every business decision.

What's been your experience in Ethics or Character Training?

Company Slumlords

2009-08-10T16:58:00.001-07:00

When hearing the term "slumlords" we instantly think of real estate owners who allow the deterioration of their property for financial gain. They are sometimes called "absentee landlords." This term suggests that the owners have little knowledge of the condition of the property and as long as the money is coming in, that's all that matters. In many cases they operate in violation of the law but are seldom found out.

Unfortunately there are companies that I call "ethical slumlords." Let me give you an example of just one company I know of who has cast aside ethical and legal practices for the almighty dollar and how the corporate office has become "absentee slumlords."

My best friend works for a Real Estate related enterprise. This is a large company with properties in several locations through out the U.S. I can not speak for all locations, but have some first hand knowledge of how one of them operate. Here is a list of their "slumlord" behavior.

* Violation of Title VII as it relates to sexual harassment in the work place which manifests it's self in daily lude, filthy language.

* Hazing of new employees.

* Rampant drug and alcohol use among employees which includes managers.

* Favoritism/Discrimination.

* Unethical practices of compensation distribution opportunities.

* Intimidation.

* Criticism in place of training.

* Motivation through fear tactics.

This is an old established company. The present management team on site have run this operation for years. They have made the owners a lot of money. The corporate office located thousands of miles away has little knowledge of how things are operating, they are only interested in quarterly sales. The HR function is almost non existent and the cooperation between other departments can be labeled as hostile. The sad thing is there are some really good people who work for this firm, but now they find themselves in survival mode until jobs are easier to find.

When Sam Walton (founder of Wal-Mart) was alive he made a habit to be in stores every week to see what was going on. He was watching to see if the employees attitudes and behaviors matched the company values and how they were treating the customer. He was checking with employees to see how they were doing and if they needed anything in order to be successful and take care of the customer.

Having a Value Statement in your handbook means nothing if actions do not match the words. In these tough economic times just getting the sale is not enough. Take a look at your organization. Do you have managers who are acting unethically, shady or questionable? Don't hide you head in the sand! Don't be a company "slumlord" by default. Insist on compliance with the law and with doing what is right. In the long run your company will prosper. It may also save you a lot in legal and settlement fees.

2009-07-31T21:42:00.000-07:00

Are Americans Stupid??

Bill Maher, an anti-God, anti-American humorist recently said on CNN that “America was a stupid country." Like many so called comedians such as Letterman and others, Maher has gone from telling jokes to being a joke with his nightly liberal commentaries on current events which he knows little about.

But still the question is worth considering. Are Americans stupid?NO!!

However, the vast majority of adults in America are intellectually lazy, uniformed, easily influenced, ignorant and oblivious about real issues that require careful thought. The education problem is not exclusive for Americans. My British, Greek, Russian, Asian, East and Western European friends suffer the same indictment in varying degrees.

With the advent of technology our young people have given their minds over almost exclusively to video or inter net entertainment. As a consequence, they have forfeited the knowledge of political, business, religious and ethical understanding. They depend on the media elites and select groups to THINK for them. “Sound bites” have taken control over thinking through complicated and opposing views.

Many adults can not tell you the difference between Socialism, Communism, Capitalism and their competing virtues. People say they live by the 10 Commandments but couldn't tell you what 2 of them are. They don’t know the inalienable rights expressed in the Declaration of Independence. (How many of these do you know?)

Without question, our school systems have failed us all. Collectively we will all suffer long term consequences for the unprepared next generation work force. However, there is something WE can do now to correct the problem.

For years I have argued that blaming the public school systems is not an action plan and certainly not the answer for educating our work force. We have failed our employees just as surely by not informing, teaching and guiding for the purpose of building a strong company and/or country. Here is my ongoing recommendation.

Join forces of departments to teach to ALL the basics of business, the free market system and how we make money. A great leader by the name of Alistair Begg says “Let the main things be the plain things and the plain things be the main things."

*Accounting Department: Teach financial basics. I recommend a great little book by Ram Charan "What the CEO Wants You To Know."

*HR Department: Spend less time talking about legal issues and CYA activities. In place teach ethics, purpose and vision of the company and why those concepts are important to the company and society as a whole.

* Sales Department: Teach ALL in the organization their role and responsibility in the overall customer service function.

Do all of this in weekly communication meetings, company publications, and other innovative, INTERESTING formats.

If you don’t know how to get started, give me a call. I would love to hear what your company is doing in this area. Billrun@aol.com

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2009-07-24T08:39:00.000-07:00

The number one question on everybody’s mind is “when is the recession going to be over?” In parallel people are wondering, how am I going to be impacted now, and what will my future look like?

I can not give you a certain date, (although I’ve got a pretty good idea) on the first question, but I'm less specific on the 2nd one. So let’s start with the first question.

The answer is when CONFIDENCE is restored! Then the recession will end.

Right now there’s little confidence that the folks in D.C. have a clue about what they are doing to restore this economy. On top of that most business are concerned with cap and trade, health insurance legislation and endless new tax proposals (aimed primarily at those who create wealth.)

Before any person, country or company can go forward they need to feel confident that’s it’s ok to go forward. We need to feel confident in our leaders, that they know what they are doing and the action they are taking is good for the country and for ME specifically. With out confidence in a sensible plan then companies will not move forward and people will not feel confident enough to go out and do what must be done and that’s to spend money which makes our market system operate effectively.

YOU, as a leader in your organization, must demonstrate confidence in your area of responsibility. Here are just a few thing you should be doing.

1. Communicate truth. The good news and the not so good news.

2. Listen and respond with empathy to what others have to say.

3. Explain the plan. Not rhetoric but specifics as often and in many different formats as possible.

4. Be willing to give or provide advice to individuals who need to consider alternatives to their unique needs.

5. Do NOT be a know it all who stands before the masses and appears to be above it all. Share in the pain. Feel the pain. Respond to the pain in a genuine, caring way.

6. Be positive, but realistic. Stop the false motivation BS.

7. Be respectful...humble...caring. Be a servant leader who is confident of the future and confident in the customers and employees who make our firms possible.

2009-07-18T18:55:00.000-07:00

Out of Crisis

Definition: Crisis – An unstable or crucial time. A situation that has reached a critical phase.

Out of Crisis is the name of the book written by Dr. Deming in the 1980’s in which he urged business to “transform” their companies if they wished to compete in the ever increasing global economy.
Tom Peters, the legendary management consultant and author said “If you don’t have a crisis, create one!”

Rob Emanuel (the President’s Chief Of Staff) said, “Never waste a serious crisis. What I mean by that is, it’s an opportunity do things you could not do before.”

Regardless of my personal or political views regarding this U.S. administration and their actions (which I believe will cause irreversible damage to American business), as a professional who facilitates change in companies, I have to admire the “opportunity seizing” tactics they have aggressively taken during the past 7 months. They are not merely trying to “manage crisis” but to “transform” the way things have been done in the past.

Many companies today are doing “crisis management” such as reduction of staff, cutting salaries, cutting prices, cutting cost and protecting the balance sheet as much as possible. These actions are certainly required but they may be missing the opportunity to transform their organizations for greater competitiveness when recovery occurs. As you know, this transformation or change management requires careful consideration of three elements. Culture, People and Processes. There are several reasons why managers are not considering Change Management.

1. Too busy dealing with crisis management.

2. They do not think there is anything wrong therefore no need for improvement or change.

3. Pride. "I am the boss, I have all the answers and do not need anyone (inside or outside the organization) to give me another opinion or point of view. "

4. Cost. "I know we may need to consider this, but now’s not the time. We can not spend the money required."

5. "We do not need change, we just need more business!!!"

While watching Bloomberg news yesterday, I listened to JimYoung, CEO of Union Pacific, discuss the current economic crisis and their balanced approach between crisis “management “ and “change management." One key idea stated was that UP was going to stay focused on their value proposition i.e. Safety and Customer Service but at the same time everything is up for “transformation consideration." Not bad advise. What is your company doing? Share with me and others. You can respond to this blog or to my email. I look forward to learning from you...
Press on….

Thinking.....

2009-07-12T12:59:00.001-07:00

As hard as I may try, I just can't stop my brain. It seems as if my mind is always racing. Just ask my wife, she will tell you "it never stops!!"

So what is it I'm thinking about... Business, politics, God, foreign affairs, the economy, current events and how all of them fit together.

I'm not a great writer and my spelling and punctuation is often atrocious, but that's not a big concern for me. When I have those intense moments of contemplating burning issues that have invaded my body during a long run in the early morning, or after a restless night in a hotel room, I just want to get my thoughts out of my body and express my opinion.

After many years of working in countless organizations around the world I encounter the best and worst of business practices and am always learning new approaches to "doing business". I want to share that with you!

In addition, with so much facing business, the free enterprise and our world today, I feel compelled to say something.

Maybe I will be writing to myself, but I don't think so. I have resisted doing a "blog" for many personal reasons. But I have discovered I need an outlet and a forum to my clients, friends and the business contacts to enter into a dialogue. So I welcome your comments, positive and negative as I address major issues of our day. If you agree or disagree, you too can get it "out of your body".. I look forward to hearing from you...

Press on.....