Sometime ago, I had this question over at LinkedIn - "Would you
hire Phil Jackson?"; and recently a sports-related question that I
answered as well was asked, "Do athletes have an edge in the
workplace?"... what do we see here?
Possible career change opportunities for capable professionals.
And consequently, the question of skills transferability that goes
with it.
"All business, from potato chips to washing machines to jet
engines, is about people selling to people." - Tom Peters
Everything is really just common sense including business. Yet
for many who are fortunate to be in the right place at the right
time, they try to add prestige in what they do, which is good; but
most do it at the expense of those trying to make a cross-over
in their careers. They try to make it sound complicated.
Why? This brings us to a reasonable conclusion that they are
unconsciously afraid of competition or simply intimidated by
great talents who could run them aground. Talking of self
confidence, huh? Kaput. For if one really has it, he would
acknowledge that experience is simply repetition. Oh, well,
how many times have I said that in the past anyway?
Anything can be learned and mastered by one who is truly
enthusiastic - it's just a matter of learning ability. More so,
it's one's brain that solves problems, creates and innovates.
As far as "applied experience" is concerned - tell this to the
ones who questions such. They maybe in the slower group.
"Revolutions aren't made by gadgets and technology.
They're made by a shift in power, which is taking place all
over the world. Today, intellectual capital is at least as important
as money capital and probably more so." - Walter B. Wriston
Have you ever wondered how an insecure person became a
Leader? Could he have just been surrounded by much lesser
mortals? After all, birds of the same feather flock together.
Ooops, wait a second. This is never to demean anyone but to
challenge the seated and specially those who claim to be
"forward thinking" Leaders.
It's about time you recognize how highly competitive professionals
from other sectors are. One would not dare make a career
transition if he does not believe he could contribute and succeed
on the other side of the fence - specially if he is a Leader.
Transferability is a question not for real talents but for the
weaker minds. Competence is a matter of opportunity.
Remember…
"The truly successful businessman is essentially a dissenter,
a rebel who is seldom if ever satisfied with the status quo."
~ J. Paul Getty
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Growing Your Seeds... Part III
Almost always, having a case study makes discussions and
explanations clearer; and for the audience, it's just a matter of
having an open mind to go with receptive ears; hence, let's start
this blog from where we left off.
"How come when I want a pair of hands, I get a human being
as well?" - Henry Ford
As a human being, bear in mind that you are dealing with fellow
human beings as well. Respect is the key to good relationships.
As a Leader, you would go a long way if you know how to value
people.
We may belong to different races, speak different languages,
practice different traditions but realize that God created us
equally although under different circumstances.
This means, with brains and the right attitude, we can make it...
it's just a question of cooperation. See, we know that we are all
in this together, so, why not just help each other? Worry not
there is still a pie for everybody so don't be deaf. If life is
temporary then learn to really listen.
You might say, "but we are into business, why include talks of
life?" Well, business is part of life. And for one to say such puts
a dent to his being, as does this mean that one could just plow
anyone with money? Is he a conscientious Leader then?
Worth following? You might succeed to a certain point but
sooner or later your principles would hurt you.
"Management and union maybe likened to that serpent of the
fables who on one body had two heads that, fighting each other
with poisonous fangs, killed themselves." - Peter Drucker
What happened to Dan Gilbert and LeBron James was such a
pity. They had their points but they did not "talk" before coming
out in the open. Look what happened? Their break up hurt them
both whether they realize it or not. Sure the Cavs may find
another "LeBron" in the future and James could win a
championship with Miami -- but at what expense?
Currently, they have hurt their public image. Later on, LeBron
"could" either hurt his legacy or his new found relationships
after some time specially with Dwyane Wade who not only is
the Heat's franchise player but plays exactly like James.
Some inside competition brewing, huh? And it could be unhealthy.
Oh yes, Magic had Worthy and Kareem while Jordan had Pippen
and Rodman -- but come to think of it, it's really a different case.
James and Chris Bosh are no rookies nor veterans in their 30's
but in their prime when they were acquired.
And Dan Gilbert?
His emotions could give worry to his organization and every
entity he deals with.
Yet, let's just wait and see... as only time can tell.
In the end, it would boil down to accepting roles and team
chemistry as how it is for a regular business organization that
laymen understands it to be.
This is the challenge for its Leaders -- growing your seeds.
Remember…
"A well-run business must have high and consistent standards of
ethics." - Richard Branson
explanations clearer; and for the audience, it's just a matter of
having an open mind to go with receptive ears; hence, let's start
this blog from where we left off.
"How come when I want a pair of hands, I get a human being
as well?" - Henry Ford
As a human being, bear in mind that you are dealing with fellow
human beings as well. Respect is the key to good relationships.
As a Leader, you would go a long way if you know how to value
people.
We may belong to different races, speak different languages,
practice different traditions but realize that God created us
equally although under different circumstances.
This means, with brains and the right attitude, we can make it...
it's just a question of cooperation. See, we know that we are all
in this together, so, why not just help each other? Worry not
there is still a pie for everybody so don't be deaf. If life is
temporary then learn to really listen.
You might say, "but we are into business, why include talks of
life?" Well, business is part of life. And for one to say such puts
a dent to his being, as does this mean that one could just plow
anyone with money? Is he a conscientious Leader then?
Worth following? You might succeed to a certain point but
sooner or later your principles would hurt you.
"Management and union maybe likened to that serpent of the
fables who on one body had two heads that, fighting each other
with poisonous fangs, killed themselves." - Peter Drucker
What happened to Dan Gilbert and LeBron James was such a
pity. They had their points but they did not "talk" before coming
out in the open. Look what happened? Their break up hurt them
both whether they realize it or not. Sure the Cavs may find
another "LeBron" in the future and James could win a
championship with Miami -- but at what expense?
Currently, they have hurt their public image. Later on, LeBron
"could" either hurt his legacy or his new found relationships
after some time specially with Dwyane Wade who not only is
the Heat's franchise player but plays exactly like James.
Some inside competition brewing, huh? And it could be unhealthy.
Oh yes, Magic had Worthy and Kareem while Jordan had Pippen
and Rodman -- but come to think of it, it's really a different case.
James and Chris Bosh are no rookies nor veterans in their 30's
but in their prime when they were acquired.
And Dan Gilbert?
His emotions could give worry to his organization and every
entity he deals with.
Yet, let's just wait and see... as only time can tell.
In the end, it would boil down to accepting roles and team
chemistry as how it is for a regular business organization that
laymen understands it to be.
This is the challenge for its Leaders -- growing your seeds.
Remember…
"A well-run business must have high and consistent standards of
ethics." - Richard Branson
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Growing Your Seeds... Part II
There is this line in a song that goes... "Why do we always hurt
the ones we love?"; and certainly, this is true. People could
never avoid hurting the ones they love no matter how hard they
try. This is because it is with them that we regularly interact with,
and so misunderstandings are inevitable.
Think about this then. If these things happen with family, how
much more with others whom attachments are not as deep?
In this case, at work.
For this article, let us talk a bit about relationships --
work relationships.
"Top management must know how good or bad employees'
working conditions are. They must eat in the employees'
restaurants... visit the... lavatories. If they are not good enough
for those in charge, they are not good enough for anyone."
~ Marcus Sieff
You must have heard of putting oneself in the shoes of another;
and this is to help one understand others. This is what empathy
is all about. Even the Bible speaks of doing to others what you
want them do to you. This is the foundation of good relationships.
Yet as we know, misunderstandings still happen.
Again, why?
Because of constant interaction? Well, we have mentioned that
earlier that even family with shared goals undergo it. Do we then
stop interacting? Of course not! That would be ridiculous!
No life, no business, no nothing!
"When there's a deep-seated conflict between management
and labor, it's because of autocratic management practices."
~ Ken Iverson
In the sports industry, for those of you who have followed the
NBA's summer free agency rush... remember the issue between
the Cavaliers' owner Dan Gilbert and LeBron James?
A surprised Dan Gilbert had his emotions run high after LeBron
ditched the Cavs. It was but natural for the people of Cleveland
to feel dismayed as well as LeBron is the team's star; in
business terms, he's the star salesman. However, a private,
no holds barred meeting between parties could have been held
before the decision was made to settle what needs to be settled.
Growing your seeds takes a lot of effort but rewards are great
when you understand how to do it... and do it. More next issue.
Remember…
"An organization can develop a strong and vibrant voice of
conscience only by finding ways to harmonize its multiple
voices of conscience." - Frederick Bruce Bird
the ones we love?"; and certainly, this is true. People could
never avoid hurting the ones they love no matter how hard they
try. This is because it is with them that we regularly interact with,
and so misunderstandings are inevitable.
Think about this then. If these things happen with family, how
much more with others whom attachments are not as deep?
In this case, at work.
For this article, let us talk a bit about relationships --
work relationships.
"Top management must know how good or bad employees'
working conditions are. They must eat in the employees'
restaurants... visit the... lavatories. If they are not good enough
for those in charge, they are not good enough for anyone."
~ Marcus Sieff
You must have heard of putting oneself in the shoes of another;
and this is to help one understand others. This is what empathy
is all about. Even the Bible speaks of doing to others what you
want them do to you. This is the foundation of good relationships.
Yet as we know, misunderstandings still happen.
Again, why?
Because of constant interaction? Well, we have mentioned that
earlier that even family with shared goals undergo it. Do we then
stop interacting? Of course not! That would be ridiculous!
No life, no business, no nothing!
"When there's a deep-seated conflict between management
and labor, it's because of autocratic management practices."
~ Ken Iverson
In the sports industry, for those of you who have followed the
NBA's summer free agency rush... remember the issue between
the Cavaliers' owner Dan Gilbert and LeBron James?
A surprised Dan Gilbert had his emotions run high after LeBron
ditched the Cavs. It was but natural for the people of Cleveland
to feel dismayed as well as LeBron is the team's star; in
business terms, he's the star salesman. However, a private,
no holds barred meeting between parties could have been held
before the decision was made to settle what needs to be settled.
Growing your seeds takes a lot of effort but rewards are great
when you understand how to do it... and do it. More next issue.
Remember…
"An organization can develop a strong and vibrant voice of
conscience only by finding ways to harmonize its multiple
voices of conscience." - Frederick Bruce Bird
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Growing Your Seeds...
We have just had the third part of our series Your People but then,
it does not end there. And why not? Human resources is, after all,
an organization's greatest asset. Fathom that while management
is about technicalities, leadership is about people. Oh yes, I heard
you... Vision. But then, vision involves steering your organization,
your people to a higher level.
"We desperately need... a national and global economy in which
people act not only as consumers but as citizens, in which workers
reassert their responsibility for themselves and the success of
their companies." - Hillary Clinton
See? The foundation of a great company lies on how well it handles
its people. You know that... unfortunately, not all knows how to bring
out the best in their people.
Again...
People in your company should not be taken for granted, but
nurtured and cared for. They are your internal customers. They
bring in the business for you. They make customers happy enough
to make them come back for more, thus, helping spread the good
word about your company's products and services. Your people
are your company's ambassadors of goodwill, the direct extension
of your office, of your company.
Catch them doing right even for minor tasks rather than finding faults.
Be broadminded. Allow for some mistakes from your employees.
Help them realize that failure is not so bad but can be part of growing.
Understand that committing a mistake is normal so long as one
learns from it and does not repeat it.
One way to "exploit, reverse and maximize" on this is by investing
in the hiring, training and development of your employees, bottoms
up and across other functional areas of the company.
"Companies die because their managers focus on the economic
activity of producing goods and services, and they forget that their
organization's true nature is that of a community of humans."
~ Arie De Geus
With that, look for hidden talents of employees that might have been
overlooked. Encourage them to perform tasks they're smart enough
of doing.
Apply positive strokes, words of encouragement, and a healthy
working environment. Cheer for your employees so they are
encouraged to go beyond what is required of them. Help ordinary
employees deliver extraordinary results.
Lastly, if possible, make public announcements like press releases
about outstanding performances of employees. Like artists and
musicians, employees need an applause after a good performance.
Sounds simple? So, have you?
Remember…
"Growing your seeds starts with recognizing the seed then doing
what it takes to nurture it to its full potential."
it does not end there. And why not? Human resources is, after all,
an organization's greatest asset. Fathom that while management
is about technicalities, leadership is about people. Oh yes, I heard
you... Vision. But then, vision involves steering your organization,
your people to a higher level.
"We desperately need... a national and global economy in which
people act not only as consumers but as citizens, in which workers
reassert their responsibility for themselves and the success of
their companies." - Hillary Clinton
See? The foundation of a great company lies on how well it handles
its people. You know that... unfortunately, not all knows how to bring
out the best in their people.
Again...
People in your company should not be taken for granted, but
nurtured and cared for. They are your internal customers. They
bring in the business for you. They make customers happy enough
to make them come back for more, thus, helping spread the good
word about your company's products and services. Your people
are your company's ambassadors of goodwill, the direct extension
of your office, of your company.
Catch them doing right even for minor tasks rather than finding faults.
Be broadminded. Allow for some mistakes from your employees.
Help them realize that failure is not so bad but can be part of growing.
Understand that committing a mistake is normal so long as one
learns from it and does not repeat it.
One way to "exploit, reverse and maximize" on this is by investing
in the hiring, training and development of your employees, bottoms
up and across other functional areas of the company.
"Companies die because their managers focus on the economic
activity of producing goods and services, and they forget that their
organization's true nature is that of a community of humans."
~ Arie De Geus
With that, look for hidden talents of employees that might have been
overlooked. Encourage them to perform tasks they're smart enough
of doing.
Apply positive strokes, words of encouragement, and a healthy
working environment. Cheer for your employees so they are
encouraged to go beyond what is required of them. Help ordinary
employees deliver extraordinary results.
Lastly, if possible, make public announcements like press releases
about outstanding performances of employees. Like artists and
musicians, employees need an applause after a good performance.
Sounds simple? So, have you?
Remember…
"Growing your seeds starts with recognizing the seed then doing
what it takes to nurture it to its full potential."
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Your People... Part III
In our previous article, we ended with the thought of how to make
our people happy. As we all know, endless surveys and studies
and even discussions in business and networking sites have
been made about this.
For starters, a good guide would be to understand Maslow's
hierarchy of needs. Since everybody has his own needs, wants
and dreams -- being happy is a person-to-person basis. Thus,
get to know your people a little more. Talking to your people is
never a waste of time or effort but employee turn over is, so
recognize their requirements and don't get under their skin.
Foster a healthy working environment.
"You can't treat people like an expense item." - Andrew Grove
See, employees are human beings not equipments that you
could just take for granted or throw away. More so, fathom that
money maybe a good motivator to most but a good treatment is
a necessity to all. Be empathic. I am sure you have heard of it
so many times already but it's about time you apply it.
Making your people happy is crucial to retaining the best talents
and attracting potentials. Realize that if you do not treat people
well, not only will they leave you but news will leak on what kind of
organization you have. And it's not something that would help
your company move with great strides.
Word-of-mouth works on employees and leaders just like
how it works on customers.
"You can do a lot of talking to your employees, and you can buy
turkeys at Christmas if that's your hobby, but it isn't going to help
you one bit to keep the employee happy." - Thomas J. Watson
Hence, know that good treatment does not mean pampering.
Pampering would even hamper your child's potential to be the
best that he can be. Good treatment is about valuing your people
accordingly.
Consider the basics.
Give your people job security... you get their legs;
give your people recognition... you get their ears;
give your people space... you get their eyes;
give your people growth... you get their hands;
give your people authority... you get their minds;
give your people respect... you get their souls;
give your people yourself... you get their hearts.
Do you follow?
Remember…
"The worse mistake a boss can make is not to say 'well done'."
- John Ashcroft
our people happy. As we all know, endless surveys and studies
and even discussions in business and networking sites have
been made about this.
For starters, a good guide would be to understand Maslow's
hierarchy of needs. Since everybody has his own needs, wants
and dreams -- being happy is a person-to-person basis. Thus,
get to know your people a little more. Talking to your people is
never a waste of time or effort but employee turn over is, so
recognize their requirements and don't get under their skin.
Foster a healthy working environment.
"You can't treat people like an expense item." - Andrew Grove
See, employees are human beings not equipments that you
could just take for granted or throw away. More so, fathom that
money maybe a good motivator to most but a good treatment is
a necessity to all. Be empathic. I am sure you have heard of it
so many times already but it's about time you apply it.
Making your people happy is crucial to retaining the best talents
and attracting potentials. Realize that if you do not treat people
well, not only will they leave you but news will leak on what kind of
organization you have. And it's not something that would help
your company move with great strides.
Word-of-mouth works on employees and leaders just like
how it works on customers.
"You can do a lot of talking to your employees, and you can buy
turkeys at Christmas if that's your hobby, but it isn't going to help
you one bit to keep the employee happy." - Thomas J. Watson
Hence, know that good treatment does not mean pampering.
Pampering would even hamper your child's potential to be the
best that he can be. Good treatment is about valuing your people
accordingly.
Consider the basics.
Give your people job security... you get their legs;
give your people recognition... you get their ears;
give your people space... you get their eyes;
give your people growth... you get their hands;
give your people authority... you get their minds;
give your people respect... you get their souls;
give your people yourself... you get their hearts.
Do you follow?
Remember…
"The worse mistake a boss can make is not to say 'well done'."
- John Ashcroft
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Your People... Part II
So... still skeptical about the value of your people? Of course not,
as you would say. But how come you could just fire them or lay
them off?
Well, firing is understandable if competence has negatively
affected productivity. But what about laying off?
"Recession isn't the fault of the workers. If management take
the risk of hiring them, we have to take the responsibility for
them." ~ Morita Akio
Oh, so, it's the outside factors. Yet, who is in charge of the
company's direction? The Executives. Particularly the CEO.
Hence, if there's anyone who should be "laid off", shouldn't it be
the CEO? Makes more sense, right?
Yes, CEOs and everybody else can be fired, recession or not
but for ineptitude or worse... for embezzlement. But why lay off
your people if not for those reasons? As the Leader, can't you
find any other means than what you think as an obvious
expense?
"If corporate health falters, the priority should be to mobilize
human potential, to restore or maintain trust and civic
behaviour and to increase professionalism and good
citizenship." - Arie De Geus
See, we even keep telling the world our people is like family.
People, WACADAD. "Words are cheap and deeds are dear".
When you say family, you should be aware of the responsibilities
that go with it. Unfortunately, many just likes the fun, no wonder
why there's so many break ups.
Hold it there. Let's get off the down side and back to business.
Family is about staying together for better or for worse. If there's
a problem, you talk about it, you look for ways, you don't blame
each other and separate. You hold on even more in tough times.
Family makes each other better people.
An organization who really treats people like family understands
what family is; and applies its principles resulting in a stronger
unit ready for challenges and always aspiring.
"You do not get good people if you lay off half your work force
just because one year the economy isn't very good and then
you hire them back." - Ken Iverson
Value your people just like how you value your customers.
Treat your people just like how you treat your family.
Notice, successful organizations and families have, among
many others, the most crucial thing in common -- they are happy.
And when you are happy, it brings out the best in you.
Everything is done with much enthusiasm, great ideas just
come pouring in, and the cash register, yes, the cash register...
...it just keeps ringing!
Do you know how to make your people happy?
Stay tuned.
Remember…
"You are the company, its success depends and reflects on
how much you value your people."
as you would say. But how come you could just fire them or lay
them off?
Well, firing is understandable if competence has negatively
affected productivity. But what about laying off?
"Recession isn't the fault of the workers. If management take
the risk of hiring them, we have to take the responsibility for
them." ~ Morita Akio
Oh, so, it's the outside factors. Yet, who is in charge of the
company's direction? The Executives. Particularly the CEO.
Hence, if there's anyone who should be "laid off", shouldn't it be
the CEO? Makes more sense, right?
Yes, CEOs and everybody else can be fired, recession or not
but for ineptitude or worse... for embezzlement. But why lay off
your people if not for those reasons? As the Leader, can't you
find any other means than what you think as an obvious
expense?
"If corporate health falters, the priority should be to mobilize
human potential, to restore or maintain trust and civic
behaviour and to increase professionalism and good
citizenship." - Arie De Geus
See, we even keep telling the world our people is like family.
People, WACADAD. "Words are cheap and deeds are dear".
When you say family, you should be aware of the responsibilities
that go with it. Unfortunately, many just likes the fun, no wonder
why there's so many break ups.
Hold it there. Let's get off the down side and back to business.
Family is about staying together for better or for worse. If there's
a problem, you talk about it, you look for ways, you don't blame
each other and separate. You hold on even more in tough times.
Family makes each other better people.
An organization who really treats people like family understands
what family is; and applies its principles resulting in a stronger
unit ready for challenges and always aspiring.
"You do not get good people if you lay off half your work force
just because one year the economy isn't very good and then
you hire them back." - Ken Iverson
Value your people just like how you value your customers.
Treat your people just like how you treat your family.
Notice, successful organizations and families have, among
many others, the most crucial thing in common -- they are happy.
And when you are happy, it brings out the best in you.
Everything is done with much enthusiasm, great ideas just
come pouring in, and the cash register, yes, the cash register...
...it just keeps ringing!
Do you know how to make your people happy?
Stay tuned.
Remember…
"You are the company, its success depends and reflects on
how much you value your people."
Friday, July 16, 2010
Your People...
How many of you still thinks that employees are expenses
instead of assets? We have heard of this. So, one... thousands?
Why?
Well, perhaps these people would say "just look at the books,
where do employees fall on?" Uhmm... trying to use logic huh,
however blind? This is like, which came first, chicken or egg?
There are those who would say egg, for they would argue that
before becoming a chicken, it would still be an egg.
Alright then. We'd just run circles if we fall for that. It's just like
believing that employees are expenses instead of assets.
You want logic, here's logic.
Did God create Cain or Abel before He did Adam and Eve?
Did God fashion an egg before showing us the chicken?
You might say "but that's not business". Right.
Leaders, readers... everything is simply common sense.
Don't complicate things to make it sound prestigious. It would
only show how shallow you are if that's the case. Everything
can be learned. And if only you look deeper, you would realize
how valuable your employees are. And it's not because others
say so, but because you really understand how business works.
"A personnel man with his arm around an employee is like
a treasurer with his hand in the till." - Robert Townsend
Without employees, you would not have the people to help you
produce... from visualizing to creating to innovating to marketing
to selling to collecting and all.
Oh, what if you are a "one-man army"? Guess what? We are
talking about the value of the employee not about yours. For if
you insist on that argument then sadly, you are narcissistic and
do not deserve to have employees.
"It is difficult to love mankind unless one has a reasonable
private income and when one has a reasonable income,
one has better things to do than loving mankind."
~ Hugh Kingsmill
Without empathy, you can never be that Leader. Yes, you could
pay your people to do this and that; but have you ever wondered
of what your performance appraisal would be if they be the ones
to do it on you instead? Good?? Technically possible, however,
satisfaction, respect and loyalty is yours if you not only know
your job but understand and value your people.
Do you? Then walk the talk.
Remember…
"People are people... not personnel." - Tom Peters
instead of assets? We have heard of this. So, one... thousands?
Why?
Well, perhaps these people would say "just look at the books,
where do employees fall on?" Uhmm... trying to use logic huh,
however blind? This is like, which came first, chicken or egg?
There are those who would say egg, for they would argue that
before becoming a chicken, it would still be an egg.
Alright then. We'd just run circles if we fall for that. It's just like
believing that employees are expenses instead of assets.
You want logic, here's logic.
Did God create Cain or Abel before He did Adam and Eve?
Did God fashion an egg before showing us the chicken?
You might say "but that's not business". Right.
Leaders, readers... everything is simply common sense.
Don't complicate things to make it sound prestigious. It would
only show how shallow you are if that's the case. Everything
can be learned. And if only you look deeper, you would realize
how valuable your employees are. And it's not because others
say so, but because you really understand how business works.
"A personnel man with his arm around an employee is like
a treasurer with his hand in the till." - Robert Townsend
Without employees, you would not have the people to help you
produce... from visualizing to creating to innovating to marketing
to selling to collecting and all.
Oh, what if you are a "one-man army"? Guess what? We are
talking about the value of the employee not about yours. For if
you insist on that argument then sadly, you are narcissistic and
do not deserve to have employees.
"It is difficult to love mankind unless one has a reasonable
private income and when one has a reasonable income,
one has better things to do than loving mankind."
~ Hugh Kingsmill
Without empathy, you can never be that Leader. Yes, you could
pay your people to do this and that; but have you ever wondered
of what your performance appraisal would be if they be the ones
to do it on you instead? Good?? Technically possible, however,
satisfaction, respect and loyalty is yours if you not only know
your job but understand and value your people.
Do you? Then walk the talk.
Remember…
"People are people... not personnel." - Tom Peters
Friday, July 2, 2010
Building That Institution... Part III
From responsibility and legacy in the first part to continuity and
courage in the second part -- finally, we come to the last act of
this series... "intentions" and "cooperation".
"The public has become pretty cynical about big business and
for good reason. Sometimes our cars were so bad, they felt we
built them that way on purpose." - Lee Iacocca
Isn't it incidental? Lee Iacocca... hmm... Toyota..?? Although
Chrysler was plagued with management and sales problems
and Iacocca became its saviour, Toyota was a little different.
But, can you and your organization survive and thrive if you
deliberately produce defective products? Wait. Did I say
Toyota "intentionally" did that?
Well... "intentions". That's the starting point of any undertaking.
It's like soul searching. Are you going to play to win, or sell your
game just to earn a few bucks? Will you be fair and sportsman
like? Or are you going to take the game by hook or by crook?
Intentions. Objectives. Vision. The torch you need before
starting a journey.
Did Toyota lack one? Certainly not. They come a long way now
for people to just judge them like that. Like all other "institutions",
their vision was good and constantly marketed and sold quality
cars.
What happened then? It's the passing of the torch, it simply
failed to give light to everybody concerned.
In short, vision should be shared and cooperation mustered --
ad infinitum. It's a Leadership Issue. Quality control was just a
branch of the tree. As a Leader, you should not merely unite
your people into one force but look into the effects of your
actions before proceeding.
"Virtually all economic activity in the contemporary world is
carried out not by individuals but by organizations that require
a high degree of social cooperation." - Francis Fukuyama
See, to aim high is not a problem. Aspiration is what makes
this world advance. However, to shoot for the stars without
considering where your arrow will land is the problem.
To build that institution, do not put too much weight on dollars
but get other leaders and organizations to play fair and realize
their accountability as well.
You earn not just a living through people but more, therefore,
make sure you deserve their trust.
With their continued trust, an institution is in the making.
Remember…
"A business that makes nothing but money is a poor kind of
business." - Henry Ford
courage in the second part -- finally, we come to the last act of
this series... "intentions" and "cooperation".
"The public has become pretty cynical about big business and
for good reason. Sometimes our cars were so bad, they felt we
built them that way on purpose." - Lee Iacocca
Isn't it incidental? Lee Iacocca... hmm... Toyota..?? Although
Chrysler was plagued with management and sales problems
and Iacocca became its saviour, Toyota was a little different.
But, can you and your organization survive and thrive if you
deliberately produce defective products? Wait. Did I say
Toyota "intentionally" did that?
Well... "intentions". That's the starting point of any undertaking.
It's like soul searching. Are you going to play to win, or sell your
game just to earn a few bucks? Will you be fair and sportsman
like? Or are you going to take the game by hook or by crook?
Intentions. Objectives. Vision. The torch you need before
starting a journey.
Did Toyota lack one? Certainly not. They come a long way now
for people to just judge them like that. Like all other "institutions",
their vision was good and constantly marketed and sold quality
cars.
What happened then? It's the passing of the torch, it simply
failed to give light to everybody concerned.
In short, vision should be shared and cooperation mustered --
ad infinitum. It's a Leadership Issue. Quality control was just a
branch of the tree. As a Leader, you should not merely unite
your people into one force but look into the effects of your
actions before proceeding.
"Virtually all economic activity in the contemporary world is
carried out not by individuals but by organizations that require
a high degree of social cooperation." - Francis Fukuyama
See, to aim high is not a problem. Aspiration is what makes
this world advance. However, to shoot for the stars without
considering where your arrow will land is the problem.
To build that institution, do not put too much weight on dollars
but get other leaders and organizations to play fair and realize
their accountability as well.
You earn not just a living through people but more, therefore,
make sure you deserve their trust.
With their continued trust, an institution is in the making.
Remember…
"A business that makes nothing but money is a poor kind of
business." - Henry Ford
Friday, June 18, 2010
Building That Institution... Part II
How is your company so far? Is it moving in the direction stated
by your vision? How's the people within your organization? Are
they working for you just because they need a job? Or are they
there because they truly believe in the organization?
Believe. That's the key word. Believe. Faith moves mountains.
"The accomplishment of individual and collective purposes in
the most fulfilling ways possible will create winning
organizations." - Craig R. Hickman
Once we get people to our side, then we have taken that crucial
step into building that institution. It's all about shared goals. It's
all about mutual benefits. It's all about commitment.
You see, a great vision is nothing if you are unable to get
commitment from your people, from your audience. And
commitment, I mean, is really all about continuity.
Look around you. Any worthwhile undertaking or important
relationship, without continuity, will go to waste. Say, a president
may have started great projects but if these are stalled when he
is no longer around, what's the use?
Continuity. That's what an "institution" is all about. To build one,
you strengthen your today. Today is a gift, that is why it's called
the present. Thus, you do what it takes to build a strong
foundation. Understand what you have and use your today
wisely, only then have you paved the road for continuity.
Building an institution takes more than just a vision. You need
cooperation from others and courage from yourself.
"Those who are going to be in business tomorrow are those
who understand that the future, as always, belongs to the
brave." - William Bernbach
Do you have what it takes?
The future is not for the adamant but for the open-minded. It is
not for the selfish but for the caring. Not for the "first to get there"
but for the forward thinking. The "first to get there" could be
gasping for air but the forward thinking would still have much to
spare.
The future... is not for the traditional mind
but for the courageous heart.
Do you honestly know where you stand?
Remember…
"Whenever you see a successful business, someone once
made a courageous decision." - Peter Drucker
by your vision? How's the people within your organization? Are
they working for you just because they need a job? Or are they
there because they truly believe in the organization?
Believe. That's the key word. Believe. Faith moves mountains.
"The accomplishment of individual and collective purposes in
the most fulfilling ways possible will create winning
organizations." - Craig R. Hickman
Once we get people to our side, then we have taken that crucial
step into building that institution. It's all about shared goals. It's
all about mutual benefits. It's all about commitment.
You see, a great vision is nothing if you are unable to get
commitment from your people, from your audience. And
commitment, I mean, is really all about continuity.
Look around you. Any worthwhile undertaking or important
relationship, without continuity, will go to waste. Say, a president
may have started great projects but if these are stalled when he
is no longer around, what's the use?
Continuity. That's what an "institution" is all about. To build one,
you strengthen your today. Today is a gift, that is why it's called
the present. Thus, you do what it takes to build a strong
foundation. Understand what you have and use your today
wisely, only then have you paved the road for continuity.
Building an institution takes more than just a vision. You need
cooperation from others and courage from yourself.
"Those who are going to be in business tomorrow are those
who understand that the future, as always, belongs to the
brave." - William Bernbach
Do you have what it takes?
The future is not for the adamant but for the open-minded. It is
not for the selfish but for the caring. Not for the "first to get there"
but for the forward thinking. The "first to get there" could be
gasping for air but the forward thinking would still have much to
spare.
The future... is not for the traditional mind
but for the courageous heart.
Do you honestly know where you stand?
Remember…
"Whenever you see a successful business, someone once
made a courageous decision." - Peter Drucker
Friday, June 4, 2010
Building That Institution...
From establishing a corporate culture, let's now get into building
that institution; and again, it all starts with that one person on the
steering wheel.
"The beliefs that mold great organizations frequently grow out
of the character, the experience, and the convictions of a single
person." - Thomas Watson, Jr.
See how big that one person could be? Big enough, actually, to
impact not only his company but his industry and society as well.
This then only confirms yet another truth which is "with great
power comes great responsibility".
Whether you are CEO or not...
Are you ready for "greater" responsibility?
Mind you, responsibility is not about "I" or "me" but about "we"
and "us". It's not about flamboyance but about objectives. In this
age, to be ready for responsibility, you got to be a team player
and be ready to sacrifice if needed to win as a team. For true
legacy is not based on how much one scored but how much his
"team" has won. Hence, a true Leader's fulfillment is in seeing
his men satisfied and growing.
More than products or services, a heart for others and eyes on
the goal only are the building blocks of a true institution. And as
the Leader, you are the company. And your company is what
you would make of it.
"Corporations, because they are the dominant institution on
the planet, must squarely address the social and environmental
problems that afflict mankind." - Paul Hawken
Soft is different from empathetic as stupidity is different from
humility. A caring company is loved not just by its employees but
by society as well. If all your shareholders care for is the bottom
line then you are not working with a true institution but an
unenviable corporation that would later on adulterate even your
grandchildren's children.
"In every era, society must strike the right balance between the
freedom businesses need to compete for a market share and
to make profits and the preservation of family and community
values." - Hillary Clinton
Yes, again, you may not be a "charitable institution" per se but
money and advancement, in whatever form, is not everything --
being human is. So if you still care then take the lead... start
building that institution, an institution that truly understands where
we are going.
Is this important? Only if your legacy is. Only if your family is.
Remember…
"Perhaps the biggest responsibility of any corporation is to own
up when it makes a mistake." - Lee Iacocca
that institution; and again, it all starts with that one person on the
steering wheel.
"The beliefs that mold great organizations frequently grow out
of the character, the experience, and the convictions of a single
person." - Thomas Watson, Jr.
See how big that one person could be? Big enough, actually, to
impact not only his company but his industry and society as well.
This then only confirms yet another truth which is "with great
power comes great responsibility".
Whether you are CEO or not...
Are you ready for "greater" responsibility?
Mind you, responsibility is not about "I" or "me" but about "we"
and "us". It's not about flamboyance but about objectives. In this
age, to be ready for responsibility, you got to be a team player
and be ready to sacrifice if needed to win as a team. For true
legacy is not based on how much one scored but how much his
"team" has won. Hence, a true Leader's fulfillment is in seeing
his men satisfied and growing.
More than products or services, a heart for others and eyes on
the goal only are the building blocks of a true institution. And as
the Leader, you are the company. And your company is what
you would make of it.
"Corporations, because they are the dominant institution on
the planet, must squarely address the social and environmental
problems that afflict mankind." - Paul Hawken
Soft is different from empathetic as stupidity is different from
humility. A caring company is loved not just by its employees but
by society as well. If all your shareholders care for is the bottom
line then you are not working with a true institution but an
unenviable corporation that would later on adulterate even your
grandchildren's children.
"In every era, society must strike the right balance between the
freedom businesses need to compete for a market share and
to make profits and the preservation of family and community
values." - Hillary Clinton
Yes, again, you may not be a "charitable institution" per se but
money and advancement, in whatever form, is not everything --
being human is. So if you still care then take the lead... start
building that institution, an institution that truly understands where
we are going.
Is this important? Only if your legacy is. Only if your family is.
Remember…
"Perhaps the biggest responsibility of any corporation is to own
up when it makes a mistake." - Lee Iacocca
Friday, May 21, 2010
Creating That Corporate Culture...
By the definition of culture alone, one could say that corporate
culture has something to do with the values, customs, and
traditions of a particular company. In short, its simply about
that vital working environment.
Hence, what determines corporate culture? And who shapes it?
First, culture is determined by the kind of business the company
is engaged in. And of course, the top honcho lays out the kind of
culture he wants to have. Well, almost everybody would point out
the apex but realistically, it is the CEO's personality aided by his
lieutenants that molds the corporate culture.
So, if one's business is about car washing, it's culture is a bit free
wheeling; if you are into accounting services, the culture is a bit
more sober. Still, without management's continuous support and
regular monitoring, the machinery would break down.
"A company's ethical conduct is something like a big flywheel.
It might have a lot of momentum, but it will eventually slow down
and stop unless you add energy." - William Adams
This culture is crucial in having a sound and satisfied army to
carry out business objectives. And it all starts with the Head.
He must be the example. He must commit himself totally to the
company and to its products or services. He must understand
and believe in the company's mission. He must personalize the
company's culture, and then add to it. He must do these
unflaggingly, publicly and without reserve -- otherwise, why work
in such a company?
"We've replaced the concept of having a job with having a
mission." - John Meyers
Thus, when recruiting your army, you need to carefully assess
the candidate's personality more than his experience if he
would thrive in your kind of atmosphere and so much so, if he
believes in your vision.
Skills can be learned but personality is hard to change. This is
what the "perfect fit" is really all about; and using your good
connections is a great way to get "good" hires... simply because
your personalities jibe. On the other hand, traditional job posting
and screening only brings you traditional workers.
"The most visible difference between the corporation of the
future and its present-day counterpart will not be the products
they make or the equipment they use -- but who will be working,
how will they be working, why they will be working, and what work
will mean to them." - Robert Haas
A wonderful corporate culture is like having a big, happy family...
where issues easily mend and things just falls into place with
minimal effort. And as captain of the ship, steer with confidence.
Remember…
"What we are trying relentlessly to do is get that small company
soul -- and small company speed -- inside our big company."
- Jack Welch
culture has something to do with the values, customs, and
traditions of a particular company. In short, its simply about
that vital working environment.
Hence, what determines corporate culture? And who shapes it?
First, culture is determined by the kind of business the company
is engaged in. And of course, the top honcho lays out the kind of
culture he wants to have. Well, almost everybody would point out
the apex but realistically, it is the CEO's personality aided by his
lieutenants that molds the corporate culture.
So, if one's business is about car washing, it's culture is a bit free
wheeling; if you are into accounting services, the culture is a bit
more sober. Still, without management's continuous support and
regular monitoring, the machinery would break down.
"A company's ethical conduct is something like a big flywheel.
It might have a lot of momentum, but it will eventually slow down
and stop unless you add energy." - William Adams
This culture is crucial in having a sound and satisfied army to
carry out business objectives. And it all starts with the Head.
He must be the example. He must commit himself totally to the
company and to its products or services. He must understand
and believe in the company's mission. He must personalize the
company's culture, and then add to it. He must do these
unflaggingly, publicly and without reserve -- otherwise, why work
in such a company?
"We've replaced the concept of having a job with having a
mission." - John Meyers
Thus, when recruiting your army, you need to carefully assess
the candidate's personality more than his experience if he
would thrive in your kind of atmosphere and so much so, if he
believes in your vision.
Skills can be learned but personality is hard to change. This is
what the "perfect fit" is really all about; and using your good
connections is a great way to get "good" hires... simply because
your personalities jibe. On the other hand, traditional job posting
and screening only brings you traditional workers.
"The most visible difference between the corporation of the
future and its present-day counterpart will not be the products
they make or the equipment they use -- but who will be working,
how will they be working, why they will be working, and what work
will mean to them." - Robert Haas
A wonderful corporate culture is like having a big, happy family...
where issues easily mend and things just falls into place with
minimal effort. And as captain of the ship, steer with confidence.
Remember…
"What we are trying relentlessly to do is get that small company
soul -- and small company speed -- inside our big company."
- Jack Welch
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Coping With The Times...
Life does not always go as planned, no matter how proactive one
may be. This is why every person on earth is afraid, if not,
worried of something.
Have you heard of the six basic fears that could ruin man's quest
for success and happiness?
The fear of poverty, death, ill-health, loss of love, old age and the
fear of criticism?
Are you aware of which one you have, if not one of the six then
maybe something else? Well, for one to be able to live his life
to the fullest, he should know how to conquer his fear.
Yes, the world has gone through a lot... good times and bad
times. But notice? Everything eventually fades, so why worry?
We are all in here together. Each one of us had nothing to do
with his own coming and certainly, only little if ever, with his own
going. But does this mean that we could be idle, just have fun
and wait for our death??
Of course not.
As a Leader, one is supposed to lead the way, to show how life
and most everything else should be handled, to be the example.
Life is short yet enough for us to make it meaningful.
See, a Leader is never content, otherwise, everything would
decay sooner than expected. Imagine if we stop innovating on
products or whatever, what would happen? Things would seem
slower. Life would get dull. Yet, is life all about materialism and
things like that? No. We don't live in an aquarium. Hence, for
the sake of the generations to come, we must try to do business
with social responsibility.
Preserve the greens.
Put a check on morality.
Provide for everyone.
"You're not going to transform society until you transform
business. But you're not going to transform business by
pretending it's not a business." - Lawrence Perlman
Indeed, the world has evolved into a more comfortable though
faster pace of life through business. And for many, change has
not only brought excitement but fear and more competition.
Look with all the advancement coming around us, have we ran
out of problems? Of diseases? Of issues? Instead, something
always seem to crop up just before things could be solved, right?
Should we just give up? Definitely not. Giving up is like suicide.
Bear in mind that our business in this world is to succeed and
be fulfilled. "A winner never quits, and a quitter never wins!"
How then do you cope with change?
Conquer time by conquering yourself.
Uphold values. And get better.
"If your hands can not be employed usefully,
attend to the culture of your mind." - James A. Garfield
Take note, no matter how successful a person already is,
because people need people, he understands that being
altruistic is the key to coping with the times... to conquering fear,
worry or the unknown.
Thus, build and value relationships.
Be helpful... what goes around, comes around.
Remember…
“I want a revolution, and I want it to start in Crotonville." - Jack Welch
may be. This is why every person on earth is afraid, if not,
worried of something.
Have you heard of the six basic fears that could ruin man's quest
for success and happiness?
The fear of poverty, death, ill-health, loss of love, old age and the
fear of criticism?
Are you aware of which one you have, if not one of the six then
maybe something else? Well, for one to be able to live his life
to the fullest, he should know how to conquer his fear.
Yes, the world has gone through a lot... good times and bad
times. But notice? Everything eventually fades, so why worry?
We are all in here together. Each one of us had nothing to do
with his own coming and certainly, only little if ever, with his own
going. But does this mean that we could be idle, just have fun
and wait for our death??
Of course not.
As a Leader, one is supposed to lead the way, to show how life
and most everything else should be handled, to be the example.
Life is short yet enough for us to make it meaningful.
See, a Leader is never content, otherwise, everything would
decay sooner than expected. Imagine if we stop innovating on
products or whatever, what would happen? Things would seem
slower. Life would get dull. Yet, is life all about materialism and
things like that? No. We don't live in an aquarium. Hence, for
the sake of the generations to come, we must try to do business
with social responsibility.
Preserve the greens.
Put a check on morality.
Provide for everyone.
"You're not going to transform society until you transform
business. But you're not going to transform business by
pretending it's not a business." - Lawrence Perlman
Indeed, the world has evolved into a more comfortable though
faster pace of life through business. And for many, change has
not only brought excitement but fear and more competition.
Look with all the advancement coming around us, have we ran
out of problems? Of diseases? Of issues? Instead, something
always seem to crop up just before things could be solved, right?
Should we just give up? Definitely not. Giving up is like suicide.
Bear in mind that our business in this world is to succeed and
be fulfilled. "A winner never quits, and a quitter never wins!"
How then do you cope with change?
Conquer time by conquering yourself.
Uphold values. And get better.
"If your hands can not be employed usefully,
attend to the culture of your mind." - James A. Garfield
Take note, no matter how successful a person already is,
because people need people, he understands that being
altruistic is the key to coping with the times... to conquering fear,
worry or the unknown.
Thus, build and value relationships.
Be helpful... what goes around, comes around.
Remember…
“I want a revolution, and I want it to start in Crotonville." - Jack Welch
Thursday, April 22, 2010
The Awakening...
It is said that if there are no opportunities coming your way at
press time; then why not create those opportunities yourself?
Yet in setting up those opportunities, can you really control
everything?
If you could... then you do not really need to fear the uncertainties
of business; you need not worry of recessions or even competition.
Hey, you can control everything, remember?
Challenges are no longer part of one's dictionary then, after all,
there's nothing that could challenge you anymore. Collaboration
is even not crucial at all as you could survive and thrive alone.
Are all these really possible?
What do you think? Let's see. Doing business involves a buyer
and a seller. If you grow your own farm, at the very least, you
could be manufacturer, marketer, and accountant. No real need
for partners or employees unless it's more than just a home
business.
But leaders and entrepreneurs are ambitious, hence, they think
big, they act big -- they understand that we don't live on our own,
that people need people.
This means... even when creating your own opportunities, for it to
truly succeed, you need to partner. You would need creative and
courageous people in your team.
"Revolutions aren't made by gadgets and technology. They're
made by a shift in power, which is taking place all over the world.
Today, intellectual capital is at least as important as money
capital and probably more so." - Walter B. Wriston
People make things happen. They think. They create. They
innovate. They decide. And a True Leader recognizes these,
so he is humble enough to take in all the help he can muster.
This awakening is all about realizing that creating opportunities is
really a matter of self-promotion and collaboration. While a good
deal or investment only happens when you learn to see beyond
the surface.
Many claims to know these but not surprisingly, there are just
those who needs to be rocked repeatedly to wake them up from
their slumber.
"Our doubts are traitors, and make us lose the good we oft might
win by fearing to attempt." - William Shakespeare
The time to apply what you claim is long overdue. Let's just do it.
Remember…
“A truly successful businessman is essentially a dissenter, a rebel who is
seldom if ever satisfied with the status quo.” - J. Paul Getty
press time; then why not create those opportunities yourself?
Yet in setting up those opportunities, can you really control
everything?
If you could... then you do not really need to fear the uncertainties
of business; you need not worry of recessions or even competition.
Hey, you can control everything, remember?
Challenges are no longer part of one's dictionary then, after all,
there's nothing that could challenge you anymore. Collaboration
is even not crucial at all as you could survive and thrive alone.
Are all these really possible?
What do you think? Let's see. Doing business involves a buyer
and a seller. If you grow your own farm, at the very least, you
could be manufacturer, marketer, and accountant. No real need
for partners or employees unless it's more than just a home
business.
But leaders and entrepreneurs are ambitious, hence, they think
big, they act big -- they understand that we don't live on our own,
that people need people.
This means... even when creating your own opportunities, for it to
truly succeed, you need to partner. You would need creative and
courageous people in your team.
"Revolutions aren't made by gadgets and technology. They're
made by a shift in power, which is taking place all over the world.
Today, intellectual capital is at least as important as money
capital and probably more so." - Walter B. Wriston
People make things happen. They think. They create. They
innovate. They decide. And a True Leader recognizes these,
so he is humble enough to take in all the help he can muster.
This awakening is all about realizing that creating opportunities is
really a matter of self-promotion and collaboration. While a good
deal or investment only happens when you learn to see beyond
the surface.
Many claims to know these but not surprisingly, there are just
those who needs to be rocked repeatedly to wake them up from
their slumber.
"Our doubts are traitors, and make us lose the good we oft might
win by fearing to attempt." - William Shakespeare
The time to apply what you claim is long overdue. Let's just do it.
Remember…
“A truly successful businessman is essentially a dissenter, a rebel who is
seldom if ever satisfied with the status quo.” - J. Paul Getty
Thursday, April 8, 2010
A Leader In The Woods...
How will you know a potential leader? Or determine a True Leader
from a figurehead or pretender?
The average person who occupies a position of leadership exceeds
the average member of his group in the following respects:
intelligence, knowledge, dependability in exercising responsibilities,
and activity and social participation.
The qualities, characteristics, and skills required in a leader are
determined to a large extent by the demands of the situation in which
he is to function as a leader.
A True Leader knows a potential leader when he sees one. Learning
to spot talents is an important ability of a leader as like a tree bearing
fruits. Without this ability to produce leaders, a leader is incomplete.
"Seeing a fig tree by the road, he went up to it but found nothing on
it except leaves. Then he said to it, 'may you never bear fruit
again!' Immediately, the tree withered." - Matthew 21:19
Then what makes a potential leader? A degree? Certainly not as
most everybody can have one given the opportunity.
On the other hand, most people accepts that leadership implies
personality. And a True Leader knows how one evolves to become
a leader being aware that it all starts from deep inside.
Here are fifteen of the most important Executive Qualities:
JUDGEMENT... is the ability to give sound judgment; it's about being
astute or shrewd.
INITIATIVE... is the power, ability, or instinct to begin or to follow
through energetically with a plan or task.
INTEGRITY... as according to Viscount Slim, it's the quality which
makes people trust you.
FORESIGHT... is the ability to foresee.
ENERGY... is vigor in action; in this aspect, it's health not age that
matters.
DRIVE... is enthusiasm, determination, perseverance, and resilience
all rolled in one.
HUMAN RELATIONS SKILL... speaks of empathy and diplomatic skills.
DECISIVENESS... is characterized by decision and firmness.
DEPENDABILITY... is about being reliable and responsible.
EMOTIONAL STABILITY... is of having self-control and self-discipline.
FAIRNESS... is being non-biased, non-discriminatory and just
in dealings.
AMBITION... more than just being goal-oriented, it's about aspiring
for greater heights.
DEDICATION... more than just being loyal, it's being hard-working.
OBJECTIVITY... is about being realistic; about understanding the
difference between true potential and fantasy.
COOPERATION... is the act of working together toward a common
end or purpose; this is the cornerstone of power.
An understanding of leadership in terms of the qualities of personality
and character which one person has to a greater degree over others
is key to recognizing potentials and talents.
Remember…
“The Best Leaders are not found in flocks... just like Eagles.”
from a figurehead or pretender?
The average person who occupies a position of leadership exceeds
the average member of his group in the following respects:
intelligence, knowledge, dependability in exercising responsibilities,
and activity and social participation.
The qualities, characteristics, and skills required in a leader are
determined to a large extent by the demands of the situation in which
he is to function as a leader.
A True Leader knows a potential leader when he sees one. Learning
to spot talents is an important ability of a leader as like a tree bearing
fruits. Without this ability to produce leaders, a leader is incomplete.
"Seeing a fig tree by the road, he went up to it but found nothing on
it except leaves. Then he said to it, 'may you never bear fruit
again!' Immediately, the tree withered." - Matthew 21:19
Then what makes a potential leader? A degree? Certainly not as
most everybody can have one given the opportunity.
On the other hand, most people accepts that leadership implies
personality. And a True Leader knows how one evolves to become
a leader being aware that it all starts from deep inside.
Here are fifteen of the most important Executive Qualities:
JUDGEMENT... is the ability to give sound judgment; it's about being
astute or shrewd.
INITIATIVE... is the power, ability, or instinct to begin or to follow
through energetically with a plan or task.
INTEGRITY... as according to Viscount Slim, it's the quality which
makes people trust you.
FORESIGHT... is the ability to foresee.
ENERGY... is vigor in action; in this aspect, it's health not age that
matters.
DRIVE... is enthusiasm, determination, perseverance, and resilience
all rolled in one.
HUMAN RELATIONS SKILL... speaks of empathy and diplomatic skills.
DECISIVENESS... is characterized by decision and firmness.
DEPENDABILITY... is about being reliable and responsible.
EMOTIONAL STABILITY... is of having self-control and self-discipline.
FAIRNESS... is being non-biased, non-discriminatory and just
in dealings.
AMBITION... more than just being goal-oriented, it's about aspiring
for greater heights.
DEDICATION... more than just being loyal, it's being hard-working.
OBJECTIVITY... is about being realistic; about understanding the
difference between true potential and fantasy.
COOPERATION... is the act of working together toward a common
end or purpose; this is the cornerstone of power.
An understanding of leadership in terms of the qualities of personality
and character which one person has to a greater degree over others
is key to recognizing potentials and talents.
Remember…
“The Best Leaders are not found in flocks... just like Eagles.”
Thursday, April 1, 2010
A Leader's Battery...
It's a maundy Thursday; for Christians, it's one of those days when
we slow down and reflect on life. Yes, even for us leaders, we
need to get our engines checked... if we are living how we should,
if we are truly using the gifts God gave us.
"We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a
man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith.
If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is
encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs
of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him
govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully."
~ Romans 12:6-8
I understand that not everybody is a Christian; but whether
Christian or not, I am sure all sectors teaches rightful living. This
is not about religion but about being fair and doing good in every
opportunity... and that's exactly what True Leaders would do even
in business.
See, while we try our best to achieve, people still needs people.
Oh, this is not about letting emotions rule over ourselves but
about realizing that life is good and promising but fragile. It's
about accepting that one way or another, even just through ideas,
people gets that needed push to grow, to advance.
"I not only use all the brains that I have, but all that I can borrow."
~ Woodrow Wilson
Humility is a priceless gift True Leaders pick up on their way to
greatness. It's understanding that we can not control everything.
It's realizing that we could fail no matter how good our foresight is.
It's accepting that we need a hand and it's what actually brought
us to where we are.
No one can climb the ladder of success without taking anyone
along... even Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay knows that.
If the Holy Week has been successful in bringing meaning to
your life, then you now know that caring is an integral part of
leadership -- whether in or out of the organization, so much more
for those you are connected with, business or personal.
"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for such
sacrifices God is pleased." - Hebrews 13:16
No, again, this is not about religion but about being what a True
Leader is. For what is a leader without a heart? And how could
you be a good shepherd if you don't even know what a sheep is?
If you don't show real care?
In networking, most connects with "like-minded" people. Why?
To seek out opportunities? To collaborate? Well, of course yes
but sadly, many just connected for personal interests. What then
happened to the "win-win" thing? To ethics? Yes, needs and
opportunities may not come at the same time and to both
parties -- but that's no excuse to help out in a way you can.
You are supposedly a Leader, yet, did you just connect for numbers?
Let's witness the power of networking... it should be for all of us,
whether Holy Week or not, whether Christian or not.
Remember…
“Great ambition and conquest without contribution is without significance.”
we slow down and reflect on life. Yes, even for us leaders, we
need to get our engines checked... if we are living how we should,
if we are truly using the gifts God gave us.
"We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a
man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith.
If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is
encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs
of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him
govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully."
~ Romans 12:6-8
I understand that not everybody is a Christian; but whether
Christian or not, I am sure all sectors teaches rightful living. This
is not about religion but about being fair and doing good in every
opportunity... and that's exactly what True Leaders would do even
in business.
See, while we try our best to achieve, people still needs people.
Oh, this is not about letting emotions rule over ourselves but
about realizing that life is good and promising but fragile. It's
about accepting that one way or another, even just through ideas,
people gets that needed push to grow, to advance.
"I not only use all the brains that I have, but all that I can borrow."
~ Woodrow Wilson
Humility is a priceless gift True Leaders pick up on their way to
greatness. It's understanding that we can not control everything.
It's realizing that we could fail no matter how good our foresight is.
It's accepting that we need a hand and it's what actually brought
us to where we are.
No one can climb the ladder of success without taking anyone
along... even Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay knows that.
If the Holy Week has been successful in bringing meaning to
your life, then you now know that caring is an integral part of
leadership -- whether in or out of the organization, so much more
for those you are connected with, business or personal.
"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for such
sacrifices God is pleased." - Hebrews 13:16
No, again, this is not about religion but about being what a True
Leader is. For what is a leader without a heart? And how could
you be a good shepherd if you don't even know what a sheep is?
If you don't show real care?
In networking, most connects with "like-minded" people. Why?
To seek out opportunities? To collaborate? Well, of course yes
but sadly, many just connected for personal interests. What then
happened to the "win-win" thing? To ethics? Yes, needs and
opportunities may not come at the same time and to both
parties -- but that's no excuse to help out in a way you can.
You are supposedly a Leader, yet, did you just connect for numbers?
Let's witness the power of networking... it should be for all of us,
whether Holy Week or not, whether Christian or not.
Remember…
“Great ambition and conquest without contribution is without significance.”
Monday, March 1, 2010
Executive Hires...
Leadership is present in almost any area of life. We can see it's
applicability in every worthy undertaking. Since this is the case, what
difference does it make to hire someone from advertising to lead in
manufacturing? Or what would make you think twice in getting on
board a leader in transition? Experience? Skills? Knowledge? What?
Undoubtedly, no business is in business to lose money. However,
companies that do not evolve in it's thinking process eventually gets
left behind.
"A little blindness is necessary when you undertake risk." - Bill Gates
People can make or unmake a company. But if you do not take that
chance, you would never really land a great talent. Yes, we heard you...
many times, one's background is enough to hire "what you expected";
however, people who knows that they can not possibly know
everything but are willing to work hard succeeds.
Achievers are those who understands that you are only as good as
your last game. This means, true achievers are those with burning
desires to "continuously" achieve. These are not the people who
simply plays safe. These are those who got the guts to bend rules...
those who understands the risk and navigates his way through
it just like how a firefighter saves lives.
To move forward, you got to think forward. To be ready for change,
you have to be change yourself. A leader does not wait for things to
happen. A leader makes things happen.
How would you know the quality of something if all you do is look not
analyze? Do not let "perfect" be the enemy of "better", specially in
people. Nobody is perfect. How much more a "perfect fit"?
"The best rose bush, after all, is not that which has the fewest thorns,
but that which bears the finest roses." - Henry van Dyke
A "perfect fit" is just a state of mind. It's an illusion created by those
who does not have the courage to take that leap. So, they content
themselves with a thinking that it's either black or white. They never
really realized that they could produce either color by blending other
colors.
Great achievement is born of courage and creativity.
Certainly, familiarity would help; but getting to the next level is not
about familiarity -- it's about character strength and intellectual
depth.
Experience is simply exposure. It teaches but it's "intelligence" that
could solve complex problems “more than” experience can. Problem
solving is not a habit as experience is. Problem solving is in one's
intellectual capacity, so is creativity, analysis and resourcefulness.
Determination and decisiveness is about character strength.
Let's take finance for example.
For leaders who boasts of and for those who are worried of their
financial knowledge, finance just sounds perplexing only because
of it's terms, but actually, everything just falls under the four basic
mathematical operations. Let me ask you, how long did it take you
to learn the multiplication table? Whatever your answer is, that's
an indication of your financial learning ability. See??
Everything else... is really common sense. Balance out risks, look
for good investments, maximize profits and optimize costs not
merely minimize it.
Since everything can be learned and acquired, then it really boils
down to enthusiasm, learning ability and being given that opportunity.
Remember…
“Experience is just for the Ordinary while Imagination is for the Extra-Ordinary.”
applicability in every worthy undertaking. Since this is the case, what
difference does it make to hire someone from advertising to lead in
manufacturing? Or what would make you think twice in getting on
board a leader in transition? Experience? Skills? Knowledge? What?
Undoubtedly, no business is in business to lose money. However,
companies that do not evolve in it's thinking process eventually gets
left behind.
"A little blindness is necessary when you undertake risk." - Bill Gates
People can make or unmake a company. But if you do not take that
chance, you would never really land a great talent. Yes, we heard you...
many times, one's background is enough to hire "what you expected";
however, people who knows that they can not possibly know
everything but are willing to work hard succeeds.
Achievers are those who understands that you are only as good as
your last game. This means, true achievers are those with burning
desires to "continuously" achieve. These are not the people who
simply plays safe. These are those who got the guts to bend rules...
those who understands the risk and navigates his way through
it just like how a firefighter saves lives.
To move forward, you got to think forward. To be ready for change,
you have to be change yourself. A leader does not wait for things to
happen. A leader makes things happen.
How would you know the quality of something if all you do is look not
analyze? Do not let "perfect" be the enemy of "better", specially in
people. Nobody is perfect. How much more a "perfect fit"?
"The best rose bush, after all, is not that which has the fewest thorns,
but that which bears the finest roses." - Henry van Dyke
A "perfect fit" is just a state of mind. It's an illusion created by those
who does not have the courage to take that leap. So, they content
themselves with a thinking that it's either black or white. They never
really realized that they could produce either color by blending other
colors.
Great achievement is born of courage and creativity.
Certainly, familiarity would help; but getting to the next level is not
about familiarity -- it's about character strength and intellectual
depth.
Experience is simply exposure. It teaches but it's "intelligence" that
could solve complex problems “more than” experience can. Problem
solving is not a habit as experience is. Problem solving is in one's
intellectual capacity, so is creativity, analysis and resourcefulness.
Determination and decisiveness is about character strength.
Let's take finance for example.
For leaders who boasts of and for those who are worried of their
financial knowledge, finance just sounds perplexing only because
of it's terms, but actually, everything just falls under the four basic
mathematical operations. Let me ask you, how long did it take you
to learn the multiplication table? Whatever your answer is, that's
an indication of your financial learning ability. See??
Everything else... is really common sense. Balance out risks, look
for good investments, maximize profits and optimize costs not
merely minimize it.
Since everything can be learned and acquired, then it really boils
down to enthusiasm, learning ability and being given that opportunity.
Remember…
“Experience is just for the Ordinary while Imagination is for the Extra-Ordinary.”
Thursday, February 4, 2010
The Voice Of A Leader... Part II
Previously, we talked of a Leader's vocal cords and it's effect on the
people he deals with; in this article, we will now discuss about "how
to be heard".
This... is all about the Voice of a Leader.
To begin with, to be heard, we got to learn to communicate. Oh, that's
easy! Well, this is not just about talking our guts out, for most anyone
can talk. Instead, we should be able to effectively communicate our
agenda as well as understand the people we talk to.
At the very least, we need...
CONTENT. This means, objectives and directives should be relevant,
meaningful, concise and according to the vision of the entity. This is
where the excitement begins so we simply have to focus on worthy
undertakings. Never waste the time of others and you will get results
faster.
CLARITY. Whether verbal or written, everything should be clear. No
hidden agenda. No double meanings. Straight to the point and with
proper delegation to say the least.
CONSIDERATION. When we talk, we do not just talk but listen. We
put ourselves in the shoes of our listeners. This means, we speak
to understand then be understood. Respect is essential.
"Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your
position falls, your ego goes with it." - Colin Powell
FIRMNESS. Oh, we know what this means, you mean business.
That's right. Some may not have that "kingly" voice to go with, but
then again -- if you could speak with "kingly" looks... if you could
speak with that "knightly" stance... if you could speak without really
stuttering -- then you would have effectively sent your message
across.
Before opening your mouth -- think. Not just what you would say
but how you would handle varied reactions.
Before opening your mouth -- feel. You need to know if the audience
is at their highest in terms of receptiveness.
Before opening your mouth -- fix. You have to make sure you are
appropriately dressed and well-groomed before stepping on the floor.
Before opening your mouth -- relax. Have confidence and learn to
pause for greater impact. Do not speak too fast or too slow, but
again, speak to understand to get things done. Have faith.
"In the end, you are measured not by how much you undertake but
by what you finally accomplish." - Donald Trump
Remember…
“It's not whether what or how you say it... it's whether you Would do it."
people he deals with; in this article, we will now discuss about "how
to be heard".
This... is all about the Voice of a Leader.
To begin with, to be heard, we got to learn to communicate. Oh, that's
easy! Well, this is not just about talking our guts out, for most anyone
can talk. Instead, we should be able to effectively communicate our
agenda as well as understand the people we talk to.
At the very least, we need...
CONTENT. This means, objectives and directives should be relevant,
meaningful, concise and according to the vision of the entity. This is
where the excitement begins so we simply have to focus on worthy
undertakings. Never waste the time of others and you will get results
faster.
CLARITY. Whether verbal or written, everything should be clear. No
hidden agenda. No double meanings. Straight to the point and with
proper delegation to say the least.
CONSIDERATION. When we talk, we do not just talk but listen. We
put ourselves in the shoes of our listeners. This means, we speak
to understand then be understood. Respect is essential.
"Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your
position falls, your ego goes with it." - Colin Powell
FIRMNESS. Oh, we know what this means, you mean business.
That's right. Some may not have that "kingly" voice to go with, but
then again -- if you could speak with "kingly" looks... if you could
speak with that "knightly" stance... if you could speak without really
stuttering -- then you would have effectively sent your message
across.
Before opening your mouth -- think. Not just what you would say
but how you would handle varied reactions.
Before opening your mouth -- feel. You need to know if the audience
is at their highest in terms of receptiveness.
Before opening your mouth -- fix. You have to make sure you are
appropriately dressed and well-groomed before stepping on the floor.
Before opening your mouth -- relax. Have confidence and learn to
pause for greater impact. Do not speak too fast or too slow, but
again, speak to understand to get things done. Have faith.
"In the end, you are measured not by how much you undertake but
by what you finally accomplish." - Donald Trump
Remember…
“It's not whether what or how you say it... it's whether you Would do it."
Thursday, January 28, 2010
The Voice Of A Leader...
Voice. Wait. What are we talking about here?
For this issue, we would be dealing with the vocal cords, the voice,
particularly of the Leader.
How important is having a "well-modulated" voice in a Leader?
We hear various opinions specially at LinkedIn where I posted this
question.
As most would believe, a great voice mean confidence. As they put it,
with a good voice, people tends to listen more to what you have to say.
Oh, it's then like being hypnotized, huh?
Well then, if that is the case, a "good" voice is really not that good to
have. Of course, it is for the voice owner but not necessarily for the
entity he represents.
Why?
What if you are just being blindly led to your doom? Do I hear some
say, "Of course not, we know what we are doing and whom we are
following"? Oh yeah? How about those who followed Hitler, Mussolini
and alike? Did they really know what they were doing then?
History tells us that a great voice is not enough even if he "walks the
talk" and has the ability to lead. Good intentions are key. In business
leadership, it's all about the ability to take the company where it wants
to go.
We do not need to sound like Luciano Pavarotti or James Earl Jones...
so long as we do not sound like a frog. We have to accept the fact
that we can not totally change our voices but we could practice and
enhance it to add some impact. Honing your presentation skills would
help in many ways, see Peter Watts' The Presenter's Blog.
And so the underlying question to one's voice would be-
How far do you think could a "soft-spoken" Leader go in terms of
respect and trust?
This query was answered well by our LinkedIn colleague
Frank Feather as follows:
Lincoln's contemporaries described his voice as a "high, reedy tenor".
Of course, he had the advantage of physique, but a non-modulated
voice did not impair his leadership stature.
As for being soft-spoken, how about the quiet and simple Gandhi,
or the soft-spoken Jimmy Carter who not only became president
but won the Nobel Peace Prize.
A credible leader can be soft-spoken yet successful, respected and
trusted. Their calm voice of reason garners great respect and
attention.
In the end, it comes down to what you have to say and how clearly
and well you articulate it. Voice modulation is a big help, but it is not
essential.
The sine qua non is that when it comes to speaking... content, clarity,
firmness and timing are crucial.
Have faith. Just be the Leader that you know you should be and your
voice will be heard well.
Remember…
“Speak softly, tread gently but carry a big stick." - Teddy Roosevelt
For this issue, we would be dealing with the vocal cords, the voice,
particularly of the Leader.
How important is having a "well-modulated" voice in a Leader?
We hear various opinions specially at LinkedIn where I posted this
question.
As most would believe, a great voice mean confidence. As they put it,
with a good voice, people tends to listen more to what you have to say.
Oh, it's then like being hypnotized, huh?
Well then, if that is the case, a "good" voice is really not that good to
have. Of course, it is for the voice owner but not necessarily for the
entity he represents.
Why?
What if you are just being blindly led to your doom? Do I hear some
say, "Of course not, we know what we are doing and whom we are
following"? Oh yeah? How about those who followed Hitler, Mussolini
and alike? Did they really know what they were doing then?
History tells us that a great voice is not enough even if he "walks the
talk" and has the ability to lead. Good intentions are key. In business
leadership, it's all about the ability to take the company where it wants
to go.
We do not need to sound like Luciano Pavarotti or James Earl Jones...
so long as we do not sound like a frog. We have to accept the fact
that we can not totally change our voices but we could practice and
enhance it to add some impact. Honing your presentation skills would
help in many ways, see Peter Watts' The Presenter's Blog.
And so the underlying question to one's voice would be-
How far do you think could a "soft-spoken" Leader go in terms of
respect and trust?
This query was answered well by our LinkedIn colleague
Frank Feather as follows:
Lincoln's contemporaries described his voice as a "high, reedy tenor".
Of course, he had the advantage of physique, but a non-modulated
voice did not impair his leadership stature.
As for being soft-spoken, how about the quiet and simple Gandhi,
or the soft-spoken Jimmy Carter who not only became president
but won the Nobel Peace Prize.
A credible leader can be soft-spoken yet successful, respected and
trusted. Their calm voice of reason garners great respect and
attention.
In the end, it comes down to what you have to say and how clearly
and well you articulate it. Voice modulation is a big help, but it is not
essential.
The sine qua non is that when it comes to speaking... content, clarity,
firmness and timing are crucial.
Have faith. Just be the Leader that you know you should be and your
voice will be heard well.
Remember…
“Speak softly, tread gently but carry a big stick." - Teddy Roosevelt
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Effortless Leadership... Part III
For the last two weeks, we have been delving on the state of
effortlessness and how it applies to "leadership".
At LinkedIn, I was fortunate to receive several good points on leading
without even trying.
Certainly, what comes naturally is "effortlessness" and that speaks
from leadership to breathing. Can you imagine if we have to "really"
exert effort in breathing?? Well, this only indicates a weak heart or
lung, in short, poor health.
We can say the same about Leadership. If we have to push something
too hard just to get things done, then it signifies that we are failing in
some areas... like, planning, analysis, people skills and so on, putting
a dent on our Leadership abilities that then needs some quiet reflection.
Even as pointed out in the book "How To Become CEO"...
Don't take work home from the office.
...your home hours are for listening to your family, studying, planning,
expanding your interests, and pitching batting practice to your kids.
If you always have to take work home you are: (a) not managing your
time properly; (b) boring; (c) wasting your precious nonwork hours;
and (d) all of the above.
A very busy, and very good, advertising executive was always bringing
home tons of work. Her elementary-school-age daughter, noting all
the extra work her mother felt compelled to do, asked her innocently,
"Mom, maybe you belong in a slower group?"
It is de rigueur for executives to take work home. But except for the
reading of unimportant memos and ancient history (a.k.a. monthly
reports), no real work is ever done. Your senior management may
note you don't take work home (even though you do bring your
briefcase) and decide to give you more projects and responsibilities.
And that's good.
Effortless Leadership should come in like breathing; but one more
thing though, "without love for life", breathing would be painful. Just
like in leading, if we do not love our work and everything in it, work
then becomes a burden.
One has to have "genuine" concern over what he does to make it
seem effortless. A Leader has to have "genuine" concern for his
followers to lead without even trying.
One of the greatest Leaders who ever lived stated the secret of his
Leadership in six words, as follows: "Kindness is more powerful
than compulsion."
LEADING BY SUGGESTING. Like "praising and asking", suggesting
subtlely clouds one's ego of being commanded to do something.
In some cases, suggesting is the combination of "praising and asking"
that it cleverly uses the knowledge and experiences of others to
forward an agenda.
Yet... suggesting is simply all about leading with kindness. About
realizing that we are dealing with people not robots; and with this
comes acknowledging their strengths and understanding their
weaknesses.
"No man can become a great Leader of men unless he has the milk
of human kindness in his own heart, and leads by suggestion and
kindness, rather than by force." - TLOS
To lead with kindness is to humbly yet confidently seek to improve
things in the eyes of your followers without losing sight of objectives.
Remember…
“You can not afford to suggest something which you do not believe."
effortlessness and how it applies to "leadership".
At LinkedIn, I was fortunate to receive several good points on leading
without even trying.
Certainly, what comes naturally is "effortlessness" and that speaks
from leadership to breathing. Can you imagine if we have to "really"
exert effort in breathing?? Well, this only indicates a weak heart or
lung, in short, poor health.
We can say the same about Leadership. If we have to push something
too hard just to get things done, then it signifies that we are failing in
some areas... like, planning, analysis, people skills and so on, putting
a dent on our Leadership abilities that then needs some quiet reflection.
Even as pointed out in the book "How To Become CEO"...
Don't take work home from the office.
...your home hours are for listening to your family, studying, planning,
expanding your interests, and pitching batting practice to your kids.
If you always have to take work home you are: (a) not managing your
time properly; (b) boring; (c) wasting your precious nonwork hours;
and (d) all of the above.
A very busy, and very good, advertising executive was always bringing
home tons of work. Her elementary-school-age daughter, noting all
the extra work her mother felt compelled to do, asked her innocently,
"Mom, maybe you belong in a slower group?"
It is de rigueur for executives to take work home. But except for the
reading of unimportant memos and ancient history (a.k.a. monthly
reports), no real work is ever done. Your senior management may
note you don't take work home (even though you do bring your
briefcase) and decide to give you more projects and responsibilities.
And that's good.
Effortless Leadership should come in like breathing; but one more
thing though, "without love for life", breathing would be painful. Just
like in leading, if we do not love our work and everything in it, work
then becomes a burden.
One has to have "genuine" concern over what he does to make it
seem effortless. A Leader has to have "genuine" concern for his
followers to lead without even trying.
One of the greatest Leaders who ever lived stated the secret of his
Leadership in six words, as follows: "Kindness is more powerful
than compulsion."
LEADING BY SUGGESTING. Like "praising and asking", suggesting
subtlely clouds one's ego of being commanded to do something.
In some cases, suggesting is the combination of "praising and asking"
that it cleverly uses the knowledge and experiences of others to
forward an agenda.
Yet... suggesting is simply all about leading with kindness. About
realizing that we are dealing with people not robots; and with this
comes acknowledging their strengths and understanding their
weaknesses.
"No man can become a great Leader of men unless he has the milk
of human kindness in his own heart, and leads by suggestion and
kindness, rather than by force." - TLOS
To lead with kindness is to humbly yet confidently seek to improve
things in the eyes of your followers without losing sight of objectives.
Remember…
“You can not afford to suggest something which you do not believe."
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