Leadership 101

Leadership Transferability...

2010-10-03T22:44:00.003+08:00

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

Growing Your Seeds... Part III

2010-09-19T15:39:00.010+08:00

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

Growing Your Seeds... Part II

2010-09-05T07:50:00.004+08:00

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

Growing Your Seeds...

2010-08-28T20:22:00.004+08:00

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."

Your People... Part III

2010-08-14T11:31:00.003+08:00

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

Your People... Part II

2010-07-31T14:21:00.004+08:00

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."

Your People...

2010-07-16T18:30:00.002+08:00

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

Building That Institution... Part III

2010-07-02T15:57:00.003+08:00

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

Building That Institution... Part II

2010-06-18T17:50:00.003+08:00

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

Building That Institution...

2010-06-04T18:44:00.004+08:00

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

Creating That Corporate Culture...

2010-05-21T14:46:00.010+08:00

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

Coping With The Times...

2010-05-06T17:11:00.003+08:00

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

The Awakening...

2010-04-22T17:05:00.002+08:00

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

A Leader In The Woods...

2010-04-08T18:04:00.001+08:00

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.”

A Leader's Battery...

2010-04-01T16:12:00.004+08:00

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.”

Executive Hires...

2010-03-01T14:19:00.002+08:00

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.”

The Voice Of A Leader... Part II

2010-02-04T16:50:00.001+08:00

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."

The Voice Of A Leader...

2010-01-28T16:03:00.003+08:00

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

Effortless Leadership... Part III

2010-01-21T15:11:00.004+08:00

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."

Effortless Leadership... Part II

2010-01-14T15:04:00.003+08:00

For most, effortlessness is simply “perception” as everything really
requires some sort of effort. Ok, point taken. However, do not take
things out of context; mind you, you are missing out on something
here.

Effortlessness, in this case, is doing things with the least amount of
effort. This means, when you love your work, it is work no more.
Got the point? Effortlessness exists. And it is deep within us as
some sort of a “motivational” component. After all, “motivation” is
powered by the heart and the mind, so effortlessness being in some
way a “perception” is about the mind. See the link?

In our previous article, we talked about Effortless Leadership through
“leading by praising”. For this issue, we go on to another way of
leading without even trying.

LEADING BY ASKING. All right, let’s get things straight here.
Leading… by asking?? You might well ask, “how could one lead if
he still has to ask?”

Well, well, well. Wait a minute.

Is there a person who has the answer to everything? No, I am not
talking about a “human encyclopedia” where it’s really all about
theoretical facts.

In 2004, Henry Mintzberg famously asked for “Managers, not MBAs”
in his book of the same name. In May 2005, the Harvard Business
Review published “How Business Schools Lost Their Way”, Warren
Bennis and James O’ Toole take on managers’ failing because of
the theoretically-centered education provided by most top business
schools. It would be good to check out Frank Kanu’s “Stop Telling…
Start Leading! The Art of Managing People by Asking Questions”.

Understand that what we are actually dealing with is a business
environment where “change” is the name of the game.

With that, obviously, what you know at this moment could be unusable
by next quarter or even the next hour. Therefore, asking is a form of
leading without even trying. See, a Leader who asks needs to verify
data to come up with great strategies, the best possible decision and
alternative action plans.

Realize that while people needs a Leader for guidance, a Leader
“also” needs people for “guidance”.

“I not only use all the brains that I have, but all that I can borrow.”
~ Woodrow Wilson

We can have all the post-graduate degrees in the world, the training,
et cetera but that is only good for boosting your resume in a “still”
mostly traditional business world...

Yet what a foresighted Leader truly needs is an open-mind and humility
“to take in” new ideas; the courage and confidence “to take on” new
ideas; and the determination and flexibility “to take off” with those new
ideas while handling change.

Remember…
“Management is nothing more than motivating other people." - Lee Iacocca

Effortless Leadership...

2010-01-07T14:45:00.003+08:00

Did I just make Leadership sound so easy?

Well, actually, if you really look at things, at life, at just about anything
- it's all a matter of common sense.

Just look for the head to understand it's being.

What do I mean? If everything has a reason then there is always a
purpose. Like, why is there "grass"? For horses to eat, for the
surroundings to look nice, etc.. Everything has a purpose, even
stones and pests. So, how much more if it's about "leading"?

Leadership is guided by objectives. Hey, you won't just assemble
a team without anything in mind for it, otherwise, you are just wasting
precious time, money and effort.

Effortless Leadership is about leading without even trying; and
it begins with a well-balanced personality, for only then can a Leader
truly understand the mysteries of Leadership. He is humble yet
confident giving him the invaluable disposition of being trustworthy.

Trust is key to cooperation. And cooperation is essential to being
a successful Leader.

Let me give you a refresher.

The six most important words in Leadership...
I admit I made a mistake

Five words... I am proud of you
Four words... What is your opinion
Three words... If you please
Two words... Thank you
One word... We

The least important word... I.

LEADING BY PRAISING. One of the pillars of Effortless Leadership
is by making people feel good.

"The person who sows a single beautiful thought in the mind of another,
renders the world a greater service than that rendered by all the
fault-finders combined." - TLOS

When you acknowledge the contribution or even the existence of
your men - you strengthen the bond, you build loyalty, you gain
true followers.

Here's an excerpt from Jeffrey J. Fox's leadership book...

Give everybody 100 percent credit for the work they do. If you have
five people reporting to you and each gets 100 percent, you get 500
percent. That's the way it works.

It's like building a house: 100 percent for the guy who puts in the
foundation, 100 percent for the roofer, 100 percent for the electrician,
and the contractor gets the sum of the parts.

Many managers don't understand this. They think if their people look
too good, they'll be diminished. They think they have to have some
of the credit, especially for the fantastic roof. So they steal it. They
tell their boss, other superiors, colleagues, and even the guy who did
the work that they were really responsible.

The credit taker is insecure, dishonest, and known to all. Even the
cleverest credit taker is ultimately found out. He is found out first by
the people who work under him. Then, albeit slowly, by the rest of
the organization.

Give proper credit and you will become known as a credit maker,
as somebody who gets things done, as a person to work for. Your
people will work very hard, as they know they will be fairly recognized.

When you have mastered the subtleties of acknowledging people,
you will have taken a great leap towards Effortless Leadership.

Coming up, the next step to leading without even trying.

Remember…
“Praise in public. Correct mistakes not the personality... in private."

Maximizing The Holidays...

2009-12-31T15:36:00.005+08:00

Happy New Year!

Several hours from now, we would be flipping the page of a
wonderfully challenging year that brought us great positive
transformation on all levels.

Time flies.

As we confidently look forward to bigger times ahead, ask yourself:
“Am I really ready?”, “What else do I need to do to get ahead?”

Well, the holidays will be over sooner than you know it. And as
Louis Pasteur put it, “Chance favours the prepared mind.”

Yes, it’s still the holidays, so enjoy but make time. Try to use the
next three days to reflect… regroup… and reinforce.

REFLECT. Do a personal assessment on yourself. Ask questions
like… “Have I accomplished what I set out for the year?”, “Where
do I stand now?”, “What did I do wrong that delayed or blew up
projects?”, “What did I do right that made me not only attain goals
brilliantly but opened up opportunities for myself and the
company?”, “How would I like the coming year to be?”, “Am I
equipped to take on more?”.

“If the axe is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is
needed but skill will bring success.” - Eccl. 10:10

Write down objectives and carefully analyze what you have.

REGROUP. Once you have determined your objectives and
checked on your resources, lay out your strategies for the coming
year. Break it up on a quarterly basis, better yet, on a monthly
basis. Plan. Plan. Plan.

“If I had eight hours to chop down a tree, I would use 6 hours
sharpening my axe.” ~ Abraham Lincoln

Planning is key to success.

REINFORCE. Strengthening your plans and resolve would be
more effective if you ask for honest opinions.

“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”
~ Proverbs 27:17

Do not leave any stone unturned. Check and recheck. Understand
that no matter how good you are, still, nobody is perfect. Humility
then would serve you well. And bear in mind to keep your plans
flexible with contingency measures at hand. Realize that we may
be able to foresee the future but not the exact future, so listen.
Keep your eyes and ears open. Watch out for signals. And be
ready to decide and act.

Lastly, do not forget to pray.

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will
succeed.” ~ Proverbs 16:3

On to the Future!

Remember…
“Maximizing the holidays can bring real benefits, it’s just a matter of desire."

Leading During The Holidays...

2009-12-25T14:05:00.002+08:00

The holidays are here... the spirit of goodwill is felt and the celebration
echoes all over the world. It’s simply such a wonderful time of the year.

But as a Leader, how do you spend the holidays? Still work? Spend
time with family and friends?

Well, the latter certainly would be the better choice of course, after
all why do we work? What’s advancement if you don’t have loved
ones to share your triumphs? What is money and power if nobody
likes you?

Family and friends forms our major support group. They are specially
there when we need them most, thus, making us more resilient in life.
With that on the plate, wouldn’t it only be fair for us to spend quality
time with them and treat our family as our number one client?

Let’s look at an excerpt in Jeffrey J. Fox’s How to become CEO…

It is very easy to let your business career monopolize all your time
and energy. The more action-oriented you become, the more there
is to do. But to force your spouse and children into second place is
a mistake.

You need the support of your family. It will help you in your career.
You need an enthusiastic spouse who understands that some
sacrifices is necessary. Your family must be an ally in your future
plans.

Put your family on your calendar. Schedule as many soccer games
as possible. Schedule vacations. Leave work early if you are taking
your children trick-or-treating. Put family activities on your “To Do”
list. Give them high priority. Quality time with your family will reward
you a thousandfold.

When your spouse or children speak to you, put down the newspaper
or book or mute the TV, and turn and look at them while they are
speaking. You will strengthen that relationship and practice your
listening skills at the same time. It is also a very polite thing to do.

Respond to your family as you do to your job, or to that big, important
client.

Try to have fun with those who really matters the most in your life.
It will do you a lot of good- personally and professionally. Your health
will improve. You’ll rediscover your sense of humor. You’ll strengthen
those bonds and make life more meaningful.

“No one can foretell the possibilities of achievement available to man
whose wife stands at his back and urges him on to bigger and better
endeavor, for it is a well known fact that a woman can arouse a man
so that he will perform almost superhuman feats. It is your right and
your duty to encourage your husband and urge him on in worthy
undertakings until he shall have found his place in the world.”
- The Law Of Success

Merry Christmas and More Success.

Remember…
“Christmas has always been about sharing; when you share, you build more stock.”

Growing Through Sports...

2009-12-17T11:04:00.006+08:00

Many treat sports as recreation, others as a form of exercise, yet
others as a relief from stress. But how many has ever considered
sports as an effective means to perfect Leadership skills?

Yes, you heard me right.

Leadership skills could be enriched by engaging in sports and
specially through Coaching. Whatever your level in the corporate
world, from staff positions to top management or whether you are
underemployed or job seeking, getting involved in sports would
help you grow your Leadership abilities.

How?

Take golf for example. What would you need to play the game well?
Clubs? More than equipment, what? You need focus, discipline,
self-control, perseverance, adaptability, and capacity for abstract
thought among others.

Sports is more than just sinking that shot. It’s about character
building and strengthening necessary to being That Leader. And
as we know, your attitude determines your altitude.

What about Coaching?

Well, while participating in sports develop character, coaching
improves a Leader’s functional skills: planning, organizing and
controlling; and specially boosts vital aspects in leading such
as people skills and teamwork.

Yet, in all these, how many of you truly realizes the great benefits
of sports in Leadership?

Many still frowns or downgrades what sports can bring forth. Many
still doubts the transferability of Leadership skills in a coach. You
can see it when a coach tries to go on a “career transition” to the
corporate world.

“Who told you it couldn’t be done? And what great achievement
has he to his credit that entitles him to use the word IMPOSSIBLE
so freely?” - The Law Of Success

Look now, how sure are you of a coach’s ability anyway? If you are
indeed a Leader then you would not judge a book by its cover. You
will not just browse his resume but analyze it and talk to him to see
what he is good at. You will review your company’s status and needs
then try to fit him in.

See, why not give an "outsider" that chance?

“Thousands of people walked over the great calumet copper mine
without discovering it. Just one lone man got busy with a pick and
found it. You may be standing on your ‘calumet mine’ right now
without knowing it…” - The Law Of Success

Being open-minded is a crucial part of being That Leader; but if
you are stuck in this status quo, then what are the chances for a
breakthrough?

Think. Even in schools, not all the "brilliant" are found at Harvard.

Remember… “To grow as a Leader, you got to get out of that shell.”

The Traveling Leader...

2009-09-14T16:29:00.004+08:00

Traveling is one thing that a Leader needs to do to be a global
leader, this maybe through internet or actual travel. However,
in the long run, actual travel would certainly be even more
beneficial... let's start the exploration.

First, well, what about traveling? Why make such a fuss about it?
And what do we actually get out of it?

Readers, Leaders, mind you that Leadership is about people not
machines. It's about people management... about directing the
ship to its destination. See, while management is concerned with
the inanimate... material and financial resources, machinery,
products, marketing; Leadership, on the other hand, is concerned
with people; it is a psychological... or if you like, a spiritual
connection between human beings.

With this, good communication skills is definitely a key factor.

"To succeed or even to survive in this most difficult of roles requires
of the Chief Executive good health, humour, a resilience not given
to many, and the powers of persuasion and personal leadership
needed in both boardroom and workshop." - Jan Hildreth

Notice, for this quotation, the emphasis on forms of communication
is seen through the boldly printed letters.

But, what about travel? Logically, if you do not travel then how could
you communicate?

Nevertheless, traveling brings with you important aspects like having
the actual view of the investment... the feel of the environment and
culture... and most importantly, strengthening that human connection
that would lead to more cooperation and opportunities.

See, having an actual view of the investment would make you feel
more confident that you are indeed making the right decision.
While feeling the environment and culture makes you understand
your counterparts even more, thereby knowing your market better
and how to effectively motivate on this side of the fence. Just bear
in mind, respect and tolerance is essential anywhere in the world.

"Goodwill is earned by many acts; it can be lost by one."

Still wait. Cooperation? Opportunities?
Yes, you heard me right. If you know how to play your cards well,
you could finally get that dream job offer... as for in many cases,
it is not what you know but who you know that gets you that job.

So, keep walking, talking, and listening to success...
and do not forget to show that million dollar smile.

Remember...
"Traveling creates Opportunities..."

The Altruistic Leader... Part III

2009-08-31T20:55:00.002+08:00

In our past issues, we realize that without altruism, a Leader would
be next to infamous. Too bad? Well, we should then know that
Mom was right, learn to share your blessings with others. That even
a line from a superhero “movie” made sense, with great power
comes great responsibility.

All these are seriously a matter of putting words into action. Even
as the Holy Bible says…

“If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need
but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear
children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and
on truth.” - 1 John 3:17-18

Ok, some of you may not be Christians and it is with reference to
the Bible… but does that mean that you should not take pity and
do good to others? See, altruism is not about religion. We are
talking of values here. After all, we are all on earth together.

Let’s take a quick look at leadership and values. Note that the
original three-circles model (task, group, and individual) spoke only
about needs. But it is impossible to keep values out of the picture,
even if anyone wanted to do so. That is why the behavioural
sciences, which properly attempt to be value-free, can not cover the
whole ground. You have values as well as needs and they play
a vital part in your decisions.

Actually, the relationship of values and needs is very close… we
need what we value; we value what we need. But they are different.
Good and bad, truth and falsehood, right and wrong, profit and loss,
are not needs but they do affect conduct.

You may think this is a philosophical point, not a practical one; but
the “best” Leaders have something of the philosopher in them. So,
as a Leader, you will have to show awareness of the values of the
common enterprise and interpret them for people both inside the
group and outside it. That is why true leadership has an inescapable
moral, or even spiritual, dimension. Without it you can become a
good leader in the technical sense of the word… but not necessarily
be a leader for good.

Where does this leadership and values bring us then?
That efficiency in leadership greatly lies in understanding the
relationship between needs and values. That what you do in the
outside world is reflective of what you do in the inside. You can not
forever hide an elephant nor can you forever hide a good painting…
unless you destroy it, but really, you simply can not.

We reap what we sow.

If we are compassionate then we get compassion as well. Charity
is more effective if we teach one how to fish… not just give a fish.
It’s about giving the necessary assistance… not spoon-feeding.
It’s about understanding the situation… not judging the person.

If your connection needs a job, he is not giving you a burden…
but he is offering you his services… his expertise.

If you wish to be the Best Leader that you can be, then you should
be able to see beyond what your current situation is and how to fit
your connection’s expertise with your objectives. This means, you
should be able to see his application with Great Vision.

Leadership is a matter of opportunity. Opportunity is a chance to
show one’s ability. More than just strategizing and decision-making,
Leadership Ability speaks greatly of one’s people skills.
People skills is nothing without empathy.
Empathy is never a weakness, it is what gives you dedication
from your followers.

Can a Leader be without values?
Only if he is a tyrant.

Altruism echoes through time.

Remember...
"Altruism is the common denominator of Jesus, Gandhi, King to name a few.”

The Altruistic Leader... Part II

2009-08-24T16:34:00.002+08:00

Previously, we delved into what altruism is; and confirmed that
indeed, altruism is an essential trait of a True Leader. For as we
know, a Leader can not keep pushing his agenda instead of a vision
that is beneficial to all, while neglecting his people on the other end.

What will happen then? A leader would lose his men to sickness,
betrayal or rebellion that would affect shared objectives in the long
run.

To lead is not only to know where you are going, but to be aware
of your back as well.

This calls for relationship building subtly incorporated in a Leader's
people skills.

Making Time To Lead
If I am to achieve a relationship with my colleagues which enables
us all to give our best, there needs to be a limit to the number which
directly report to me. A need to identify necessitates on both sides
the giving of time. Time to understand the other person, find out
what makes him tick, what are his strengths and weaknesses and
whether there are short cuts in getting through to that person for the
purpose of getting things done effectively. One of the great benefits
of a well established relationship is that it reduces the need for
lengthy dialogue although it does not and never should eliminate
regular briefing sessions.

Regrettably, we do not always have the time or, worse still, find the
time to get to know many of our colleagues well enough to exercise
this advantage. Leadership necessitates a two way acceptance of
a special relationship; it has to be built on mutual trust and respect
but it involves also a complex matrix of skills and sensitive
perceptions, perhaps the most important of all, listening and hearing;
the two are not necessarily synonymous. If I had to summarize what
leadership means to me, it would be the understanding and sharing
of a common purpose... without that, there can not be effective
leadership. (Ann Mansell, Texales Ltd. - CEO)

Mind you, we are dealing with people with feelings not robots. Yet,
a Leader does not necessarily have to drink with the gang. Getting
tipsy with anyone connected to his company is a sign of weakness.
It shows out of control.

Better still, treat all people as special. As Jeffrey J. Fox suggested,
excellent leaders make people feel that they...

... are asked, not questioned...
... are overpaid, not underpaid...
... are measured, not monitored...
... are people, not personnel...
... are sold on what to do, not told...
... are instrumental, not instruments...
... are workers, not worked...
... are contributors, not costs...
... are needed, and heeded.

See, people skills would not be as effective without sincerity. While
sincerity is seen in how naturally you practice altruism. And genuine
altruism echoes outside your organization onto your friends, business
associates and of course, your network connections.

Certainly, if you want to push your career or business to your
satisfaction... it would do well to apply generosity like rays of the sun.
As we call it in business... "word of mouth"; and this is how to build a
successful career or understanding. It all starts with genuine altruism.

Again, why did you network? For further collaboration?

That's fine... but then, the future starts now.

If you wait for the "perfect" time, for the "perfect" new product, for
conditions to be just right, you will never get started. Realize that
even the greatest of companies and products have been improved
since their beginning. Do not let "perfect" be the enemy of "better."

Procrastination ruins the path to success.

Your legacy begins with what you can do for others... NOW.

Remember...
"Altruism builds trust. Trust ignites cooperation. Cooperation powers ACHIEVEMENT."

The Altruistic Leader...

2009-08-17T13:20:00.003+08:00

As a Leader, you are generally expected to have supporters or
subordinates; but as Dag Hammarskjold, former Secretary General
of the United Nations said...

"Your position never gives you the right to command. It only
imposes on you the duty of so loving your life that others can
receive your orders without being humiliated."

This is what a Leader is all about empathy... Altruism.

Do you still remember how you became a Leader? The struggles
you had to go through and all before arriving at what you are now?
Or some of you might want to say, "but I have never struggled,
I was always on top."

Well, although it's quite unthinkable, good for you then.

"A man's success is made up of failures because he experiments
and ventures everyday, the more he falls he gets, moves faster
on... I have heard that in horsemanship, he is not the good rider
who never was thrown, but rather that a man will never be a good
rider until he is thrown; then he will not be haunted any longer
by the terror that he shall tumble, and will ride whether he is
bound." - Emerson

Thus, failure can be your best teacher. It can also give you the
priceless gift of humility. As the Vice President of an American
Company once said, "I have had enough success to keep me
from despair, and enough failure to keep me humble."

Why did failure come to the picture when the issue is
about Altruism?

For nobody knows what will exactly happen to the future? And
with that in mind, our security really depends on our dealings
with others. if we act with "altruism" now then one day when we
need help... help will come knocking.

We have to give in order to receive.

Empathy is expected of good Leaders within the organization.
However, a wise man knows that he should not put all the eggs
in one basket; otherwise, growth would be limited and even
failure looms what with the uncertainty of business.

Altruism should then be extended outside of your working
environment onto your business connections.

See, if you can not show care to your connections, don't you
think you are just indrectly deceiving them? Oh my, how? Why?

First, why did you connect with them when there really would not
be anything going between you? Second, you deceived your
connection in a way that all you wanted was to learn or get
something from them without compensating.

Wait a minute.

Compensating? Do we have to pay to make friends or connect?
Everything has a price... but it's not exactly what you think it is
between friends for this compensation comes in the form of a
mutually beneficial connection. Meaning, you help each other in
whatever way possible.

Realize that there is really no sincerity in connecting if all you want
is simply to fill up your database. Sincerity is present only when
you understand that both parties have wants or needs to be met...
and are willing to do something about it.

"Think of the poorest person you have ever seen and ask if
your next act will be of any use to him." - Mahatma Gandhi

If this article has succeeded, it should have given you at least
some glimpses of what that "subtle and unmistakable touch of
love" means within the context of Leadership.

Remember...
"Altruism is exercising compassion to others and enhancing power to your future."

Job Hunting Leaders... Part III

2009-08-10T14:05:00.004+08:00

"I not only use all the brains that I have, but all that I can borrow."
- Woodrow Wilson

We heard of luck. We heard of preparation. Now, let us deliberate
on the most vital ingredient a Leader needs to succeed...
Connections.

When we say connections, what comes to your mind?
People, of course... but these are no ordinary people, these are
those who share at least some of your philosophies; therefore,
these are the people that could help you, in as much as, you could
help them.

"How come when I want a pair of hands
I get a human being as well?" - Henry Ford

People need people.

Remember we can not simply rely on luck. We got to create our
own luck through good planning. And we can only get cooperation
through sincere and open communication and having the integrity
to return the favor.

As we know, people are not in business to lose money, hence,
trust is key. Even good friends are good friends because of that trust.

Understand that having connections is power, but this power is
only made manifest again... through cooperation. Bill Gates would
have had a tougher time without Paul Allen. Business does not
even need to start big, Stanford engineers William Hewlett and
David Packard started HP in 1939 with only US$538 in a Palo Alto
garage. We just need to connect. No man is an island.

"Jack was out kissing babies while I was out passing bills.
Someone had to mind the store." - Lyndon B. Johnson

Think about this, if Jesus did not have disciples, Christianity would
not have grown to what it is today. We just need a partner, a friend...
a connection to help us turn the wheels, to get job opportunities or
to succeed in whatever endeavor.

We have heard of the famous saying...
"Attitude plus Aptitude determines your Altitude."

Nonetheless, preparation would be useless without opportunity
as performance is the result of this opportunity.

"Far and away, the best price that life offers is the chance to
work hard at work worth doing." - Theodore Roosevelt

However, opportunity more than timing, which is actually luck if
you really think about it, is highly dependent on connections.
Yet, how do we unlock the power of connections?

People skills.

People skills is not about sweet talking. Sweet talking is deceitful
and consumes one's integrity. And even with a good opportunity,
it can only make so many promises but one... to deliver.

"You can create excitement, you can do wonderful promotion and
get all kinds of press... but if you don't deliver the goods,
people will eventually catch on." - Donald Trump

Promises are not made to be broken... Your future is at stake.

We do not sweet talk people, but use sincerity at all times...
it is the primary element of great people skills. Thus, realize that
people skills is a mix of your sweeping charisma, sound character
and empathic communication skills.

You want business? You want a job?

Unleash that power! Be sincere. Be unselfish. Be of service.
Consequently, the power of connections could only be unleashed
through great people skills.

Yes, it is a small world but you do not need to be greedy, worried or
sceptical. Greed is only for the insecure; scepticism is for the
incompetent; while worry will just wear down your ability to succeed.
Have Faith. There is something good for everybody.

This is not just your world, it's our world...

See, you maybe successful now, but who exactly knows the future?
We can only have that permanent security IF we act as how a Leader
should... with Altruism.

Job hunting should not just be the concern of seekers...
but specially the concern of those who sincerely care.
What are connections for?

The good you do will come back to you.
So, let's just join hands... together, WE WILL MAKE IT.

Remember... as that Job Hunting Leader...
"If you think you can or think you can't you're probably right." - Henry Ford

Job Hunting Leaders... Part II

2009-08-03T20:01:00.003+08:00

In the first part of our job hunting leaders series, take note that a
major pillar of job hunting is good preparation.

"Chance favours only the prepared mind." - Louis Pasteur

Realize that to succeed as a Leader, you should have that burning
desire; as without that high degree of motivation, you will give up on
the first signs of difficulty. Mind you, this desire is partly a reflection
of your ability. Now, your motivation to succeed particularly in
Leadership can be best developed by finding a sphere of work
which you find absorbingly interesting and demandingly worthwhile.
Then you will show infectious dedication to the job in hand.

So, as we see, good preparation is knowing what you want and
dedicating yourself to it... as it is your decisions, not your conditions,
that determine your destiny.

Once you have chosen your field, however, you should aim to
develop maximum flexibility within it, so that you are the master at
reading the changes in situtations and responding with the
appropriate Leadership style. At the same time, as you grow in
Leadership, your technical knowledge and experience in that
working field should be widening and deepening as well.
Bear in mind, experience is simply exposure, so be creative.

Knowing Your Field Of Activity
Another quality common to leaders is their willingness to work hard,
to prepare themselves, to know their field of activity thoroughly.
I have often heard it said of some individual: "Oh, he'll get by on
personality." Well, he may get by for a time, but if a charming
personality is all he has, the day will come when he will find himself
looking for a job.

I never knew President Roosevelt as well as I did some of the other
leaders, but in the few conferences I had with him I was impressed,
not only by his inspirational qualities, but by his amazing grasp of
the whole complex war effort. He could discuss strategy on equal
terms with his generals and admirals. His knowledge of geography
of the war theaters was so encyclopedic that the most obscure
places in faraway countries were always accurately sited on his
mental map. President Roosevelt possessed personality, but as
his nation's leader in a global conflict, he also did his homework...
thoroughly. - Dwight D. Einsenhower

Do not then be afraid of taking bold initiatives, even risks, with your
career especially if you are aiming high. The good news is that
there is always more about Leadership to be learned. No one
person knows it all or does it all. What matters most is that you
are now moving steadily higher on the path of Leadership, setting
past failures or disappointments firmly behind you.

Do not simply rely on luck. Luck is when good preparation and
opportunity meet. Be that boy scout, always prepared.

Do not wait for the right attitudes to appear... that can take years.
Actions form Attitudes. If you form a picture of the person you would
like to be... drawing upon models or examples of great Leaders...
then all things will begin to work together to grow into that stature.

"Great achievement is usually born of great sacrifice, and is never
the result of selfishness." - THE LAW OF SUCCESS

With effort, powerful connections will begin to notice you. Take note,
powerful connections, not "traditional" recruiters. As for "traditional"
recruiters, they are simply playing safe, "round pegs for round holes."
But for powerful connections, they know that round pegs for round
holes ignore the dimension of change and the need for creative
people and Leaders in the organization.

Job hunting should not be so tough, just be where the action is.

Remember...
"Seize the small opportunities, and the big ones will find their way to you."

Job Hunting Leaders...

2009-07-27T19:39:00.001+08:00

We know that we are still in recession; and yet even if we're not in
recession, there could still be a few displaced personnel including
"leaders." Does this then mean that these people are not good
enough?

See, first, not because one is a leader, he is employed... for many
leaders could be unemployed too. But that does not mean they are
no good. Most of the leaders who are employed are just fortunate
enough to be with a strong organization. They are where they are,
not necessarily because they are better than the others, but because
they were just at the right place at the right time.

Do we hear someone say, "What about the education factor?"

Well, yes, a good education certainly helps. It's good training. This
is in fact the basis of traditional recruiters on up and coming leaders.
Not really bad. But take note that not because one does not come
from Harvard, it means that he's a lesser mortal. For haven't you
thought of the money factor? Or even luck?

Like, if General Gott had not been killed in a plane crash, for instance,
Montgomery would not have taken over the Eighth Army. You would
be foolish if you didn't recognize the hand of luck. It's an uncomfortable
factor to live with, but it is undeniably there in every sphere of life.

If you are going to be effective as a Leader, however, you need to
adopt a positive policy towards luck. The worse strategy you can adopt
is to rely upon luck, except in extreme circumstances where there is
literally nothing else you can do.

Just remember, everything can be learnt; but progress is mainly
dependent on the person concerned, on how well he handles
opportunities.

What about the experience factor?

Ah, experience again.
Ask yourself then, "How could one get experience if he was not
given that opportunity? How could one prove his worth if he was
not given the chance?" Hence, understand that experience is a
matter of exposure.

And more so...
"Experience is as to intensity and not duration." - Thomas Hardy

Nonetheless, how you will react in a very senior Leadership position
will not be know until you get there. You may drag it down to your
level of incompetence, or you may grow into the job. How you actually
perform in that position will largely depend upon your self-development.

Thus, as a job hunting Leader, you should be responsible and
proactive in your Leadership development programme.
For Leadership can not really be taught, it can only be learnt. If you
work hard at it... given a modicum of potential... you will improve.
Indeed, someone of modest natural ability who works hard at the task,
team and individual circles will eventually outstrip a person of high
natural ability who is lazy and instinctive about it, for the latter's faults
will grow bigger like weeds over the years. He will not be able to
transfer his learnings from one situation to another because he has
never understood why he was successful in terms of principles.
It is sad to see a natural leader go bad, but it has happened more
than once.

Let your job hunting then be seasoned with good preparation, in turn,
luck will very soon smile at you.

Remember...
"Work hard at Leadership today, and tomorrow will take care of itself."

The Essence... The Sequel.

2009-07-20T15:26:00.003+08:00

In last weekend’s article, we delved into the essence of Leadership…
and two of the factors, as we know, were vision and trust. Certainly,
without “vision”, what would be the point of a worthy undertaking?
It’s like having a car but you do not know where to go, no destination.
And of course, “trust” is like gasoline, even if you know where to go
but if there is no petrol… you can not proceed.

We then concluded the article with a teaser for this week’s blog…
the “action” factor in the essentials.

COOPERATION. This is what we get when our vision is shared and
trust is compensated. It is the beginning of all organized effort. It is
the insurance to inevitable success.

“We become not a melting pot but a beautiful mosaic. Different
people, different beliefs, different yearnings, different hopes,
different dreams.” - Jimmy Carter

But how do we actually get cooperation?

Simple yet a bit tough specially for some in power. First, we have to
be polite… with everyone. Mind you, not because you are at the top…
that does not mean that you could roll over others. Respect begets
respect. Hence, use good manners all the time. Never pull rank.
Consider one’s culture, beliefs and traditions. Always think of how
others could “feel” before you say or do something. Realize that you
are dealing with human beings not robots. Don’t waste people’s time
but be considerate. Yes, practice saying “please” and “thank you”
whenever possible… sincerely.

“Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing
to the bones.” - Proverbs 16:23-24

Understand that support can be gained if you make allies not enemies.
Thus, with the support of your allies, you get the help you need to get
your goals or job done… even if someone deliberately or
unintentionally acts to scuttle you.

See…

The creation of more wealth each year; the increase in our national
production; the ability to do just a little better than our competitors
overseas, all these will benefit the organization as a whole.

But to achieve, this demands a wholesale change of attitude in order
to break down barriers which prevent companies from working as a
united, productive team.

However, in all these, only Top management can take the decisions
that will put their organizations on such a path... because effective
change can only come from the very top. Personal Leadership from
the top can create a receptive environment in which teamwork can
truly flourish right down the line. The old barriers can then at least be
replaced with genuine trust… fuelling cooperation towards that vision.

“We must not let the iron curtain be replaced with a veil of
indifference.” - Bill Clinton

Remember...
“Valuable Cooperation is yours if you think of others and not just yourself.”

The Essence Of Leadership...

2009-07-12T21:04:00.002+08:00

In our previous blog, we talked about the bottomline of Leadership;
for this issue, we will discuss about the “essence” of Leadership.
But what’s the difference between “bottomline” and “essence”
anyway? Is the former more important than the latter or
the other way around?

First, while bottomline speaks of output, essence is about the
crucial elements in Leadership for this matter. What then are these
“crucial” elements? How do we acquire them?

VISION. To get the attention of others, specially the supporters
you wish for, a Leader needs to have an exciting and mutually
beneficial vision.

Let’s take a look at this angle…

Leaders for good.
If effective work is to be done then there will need to be leadership,
otherwise people will thrash around in a fog. Leadership involves,
for me, helping the organization to discover, express its own purposes
and values which enable those involved with the organization to
commit themselves to the organization sufficiently that they will use
their intelligence and creativity in its support. That probably means
that the central purpose of the organization will need to be expressed
and lived in terms that people can identify with and with underlying
values that they can be proud of. Maybe “to serve the public by
producing good value x’s and doing so in such a way that all
employees are able to use and develop their talents” would be more
likely to inspire people than “to make more profit than last year”?
Leadership like this will need to be shown at all levels.
(Nicholas Heap)

See, this vision should be of helpful service which could easily be
shared and pushed to get the ball rolling. Yet, although we can not
control everything, visions do not really change… but it’s your plans
that need to be flexible enough to absorb, adjust to and predict
changes. Hence, it would certainly be good to have contingency
plans in firing up objectives.

TRUST. Once you have that “vision” in line, you now have to act
swiftly and positively to lay the foundation of trust.

Take note that trust can only be built if we have genuine concern for
others; if we have respect; if we walk the talk; if we have integrity.

On Integrity.
Harris: “What single quality makes an industrial leader?”
Woodroofe: “No single quality, but an indispensable one is integrity.
No doubt about it. Assuming certain qualities like efficiency,
imagination, shrewdness, doggedness and so on, the all-essential
one is integrity.”
Harris: “What do you mean by integrity in this context?”
Woodroofe: “Most decisions in business are based on uncertainties
because you don’t have all the information you would theoretically
like to have, but having what you have, you must use your judgment
and decide. But, and this is what I mean by the overriding importance
of integrity, the decision must be made within the framework of the
responsibilities the businessman carries. He has responsibilities to
the shareholders, the employees, the consumers, even the
government of the day. He has to balance these responsibilities
thoroughly, justly and without bias. You could, for instance, make a
decision which was to the benefit of your shareholders but to the
detriment of the community as a whole. Not doing that, and knowing
why you are not going to do it, and what not doing it is going to cost
you, is what I mean by integrity.”
(Kenneth Harris of The Obeserver in an interview with
Sir Ernest Woodroofe, Unilever Chairman, 1970)

Now that we are in the digital age and having most all the necessary
information… does it mean that “integrity” is no longer significant?
Huh, think again. Can you imagine engaging with an entity without
integrity? What do you think would happen? You know the answer.

Coming up on the next blog... the action word of the essentials.

Remember... “Leadership is a continuing process… and Key to your
Development depends on your ability to learn from others.”

The Bottomline Of Leadership...

2009-07-05T22:06:00.004+08:00

What comes to your mind when you hear the word “bottomline”?
Many could think of it as the ultimate thing. Well, it makes sense;
however, if we take a closer look, bottomline signifies something
that has gone through pretty complex procedures. There could be
many branches or processes involved to come up with an output.

Leadership. Bottomline.

Hmm… Is Leadership then that complicated? Well, to many,
it could be; and to some, even scary. Why?

Consider this…

Michael, aged 36 years, had a brilliant career as a “back room boy”
in the accounts department of a British pharmaceutical company.
He had passed all the examinations and specialized in tax matters,
winning himself a solid reputation. He had been with the same firm
for twelve years. On “situational” grounds, he should have been the
ideal man to become the leader of his department when the job fell
vacant. When that promotion came his way, however, it took him by
surprise. He was not prepared for leadership. The company was in
recession; morale in the department was low. He soon found himself
with all sorts of problems, both about the department’s effectiveness
and about people, where his expertise in tax law was of no help.
He floundered for a while and then in desperation left the company
to set up business on his own as a tax collector.

What do we see here?

Looking deeper within, Leadership is more than just experience;
for again, things can be learned… it’s just a matter of exposure,
of opportunity. See then, Leadership is really all about character…
that is strength and soundness.

Yet, many are still awed when they hear the word “leadership”;
many are still worried to put people in leadership spots. Why?
Because these “many” are not True Leaders. Because these
“many” are just traditional recruiters. Realize now that we sorely
need a paradigm shift if we truly want to move forward with
renewed confidence.

The bottomline then is…

For you as a Leader, it’s decision-making skills. This is having
that courage to make decisions. Sound and timely decisions that is.
The courage to cross the bridge. The courage to take responsibility.

And this responsibility extends to every party involved in the business…
from owners to suppliers to employees to customers among others.

For the shareholder, a leader’s responsibility is primarily meeting
objectives. This would also include harnessing the company’s
potential for growth.

For the suppliers, it's geared on his coordinating skills. After all,
without the timely availability of raw materials, business would be
critical.

For the subordinates, it's mainly about people skills, particularly
one’s ability to build enthusiasm, to employ empathy, and to subtly
use humor when tension arises.

For the customers, responsibility is focused on understanding
consumer behaviour, both short-term and long-term. On knowing
their needs. On satisfying their curiosity.

Leadership may have its pressures but tell you, it’s not really that
tough… you just have to constantly be aware of time, environment,
and people.

“Chance favors the prepared mind.” - Louis Pasteur

Make your mark. You can do it.

Remember…
“With great power comes great responsibility.”

The Mythical Leader...

2009-06-28T22:46:00.000+08:00

Mythical Leader. Have you heard of such?

Hmm... actually, there’s so much of that kind that roams in various
organizations… and many more just about to be hired.

Nonetheless, the question is still a question.

What is a Mythical Leader? Well, we could think of him as a leader
who protects the “status quo”; or a leader whom traditional thinkers
believe them to be, which is a round peg for a round hole.

Wait a minute.

Round peg for a round hole?
Isn’t that about getting the right fit for the job opening??
But, but… if we don’t get the right fit then how would he perform?
Wouldn’t he just produce mediocre results? So, why is it then
that a “round peg” is a “mythical leader”?

“It’s counter to human nature, but you have to kill your business
while it’s still working.” - Lewis Platt

Well, well, well… are we forward-thinking or not? Forward Thinking
is about looking from a higher perspective, it’s about looking beyond.
It’s about looking from different angles not just the front, side, and
back; it’s also about the 45° or 225° angle; it’s about the top view
and even what’s under.

For those who are skeptics, forward-thinking is not just about thinking
“different.” Understand that “different” is not always good, at times
it’s ridiculous or absurd.

What about Creativity? Yes, being “creative” is different but without
losing one’s head. It’s like being able to solve the puzzle but without
“destroying” the game or device. Thus, creativity is key to Great
Leadership.

“It is not enough to have a good mind. The main thing is to use it well.”
- Leonardo Da Vinci

Now, let us briefly look how the round peg for round hole principle
suppresses just two of the most vital factors to Forward Thinking.

FLEXIBILITY. The RP4RH principle is rigidly structured with no
room to maneuver but up or down, no sides, no angles or what.
Organizations and headhunters just base their recruitments on a
list of stiffly drawn requirements and traditional methods of hiring.

RESOURCEFULNESS. Since flexibility is affected, resourcefulness
is then replaced with “resume browsing” instead of “profile analysis.”
Here, we see recruiters in a bit of a rush to find that RP4RH candidate
and get their job done; otherwise, they painstakingly wait for that
RP4RH candidate like betting to hit the lottery.

What then do we notice with these two suppressed factors?

This makes many HR and recruiters sort of lazy or procrastinators.
Diplomatically, it’s called “playing safe”… unfortunately, without
realizing that they could be stepping on a gold mine.

Haven’t you ever thought that we could shape the square peg round?
Or don’t you think that the “maladjusted” could be that missing link
into making your organization see things beyond your imagination?
Or that he could make various holes to push your company ahead?

“A public-opinion poll is no substitute for thought.” - Warren Buffet

The answer lies in your ability and courage to see past the paper.

Remember… “If the ax is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is
needed but skill will bring success.” - Ecclesiastes 10:10

The Trusted Leader...

2009-06-21T21:14:00.000+08:00

As in all human relationships, trust is the most crucial aspect in
determining how far the association will go, on how successful the
venture will be.

But how do we develop that trust? What is its difference from “like”?
Or how can we exactly benefit from trust? And how…
do we properly use “trust”?

“Goodwill is earned by many acts; it can be lost by one.”

See, the hard part with trust is that, it takes a while for us to build it
but it only takes a second to tarnish it.

We can not ignore the fact that to err is human but then, getting
things back the way they used to be is tougher specially those
outside our family circle. Why? This is because of the varying
depths of relationships.

With family, when you “trip”, you would be more easily forgiven
because of the emotional connection brought about by the common
knowledge that the parties concerned are related by blood or marriage.

Whereas in business, things are more stiff since the connection is
basically work or investment related.

Nonetheless, we can not deny the fact that if people “trusts” us,
the power we have strengthens with the responsibilities bestowed
upon it.

“Do you realize the responsibility I carry? I’m the only person
standing between Nixon and the White House.” - John F. Kennedy

Then again, as a Leader, how do we develop that trust?

FIRST, bear in mind that if you can not trust others then you can not
be trusted yourself. This means, you got to learn to let go of the
power string and give people room. This means, you got to learn to
give people opportunities to prove themselves. This means, you got
to learn to give a chance to those who failed and to those who needs
one. This means, you got to learn to respect what they value and to
listen to their needs. This means, you got to learn to be flexible and
empathic yet firm.

And so, this brings us to the SECOND essential to earning that trust;
which is to treat people as our family.

Like what’s mentioned earlier, when you make a mistake with family…
you are more likely to be understood faster and forgiven; you are
more likely to be given another chance because of that emotional
connection, of that blood or marriage tie.

Hence, we now realize that if we treat people as how we would treat
our family then we could easily develop that deeper connection
resulting in greater trust and cooperation which is… vital to success.
This is not about being more subjective, this is about being more
responsible in our actions.

For one…
Would you put your family at risk in your decisions? Wouldn’t you
try to do even better for the sake of your family?
Leaders, readers, this speaks for both parties.

Now, see the significance of “treating people as your family”?

Trust begets trust. And power with trust then makes us more
accountable to our people and organization. Still, for many who
are simply egotistically ambitious, power is subtly abused for selfish
interests. This is a sad and unseen truth; and this happens because
of the underlying errors in traditional appointment, or even hiring.

Yes, we know that trust is key to appointments, to recruitment…
but we can not just be either subjective or objective in human
investments. This is why only True Leaders can spot Real Talents;
only True Leaders are willing to take that chance on the unknown…
for only True Leaders can see beyond; and only True Leaders can
strike the balance between being subjective and being objective
and look for ways to utilize and maximize one’s potentials.

Indeed, trust gives us that Leadership Edge. And no doubt,
trust is earned, but really… it’s just a matter of opportunity and
unprejudicial, undiscriminatory, unbiased and open-minded
treatment to others… personal or business… that wins trust.

Trust just has to be sincerely communicated to build up.

Remember… “So, in everything,
do to others what you would have them do to you…” - Matthew 7:12

Passive Candidates...

2009-06-14T20:00:00.003+08:00

“In the end, you’re measured not by how much you undertake but
by what you finally accomplish.” – Donald Trump

Have you heard of the headhunters’ belief that passive candidates
are the ideal choices to fill in job vacancies?

Well, what then is the basis of such belief?

In this article, we talk about the main possible reason why such a
theory came into being.

PRODUCTIVELY EMPLOYED.

Why?

Again, the central idea here would be that the prospect has been
having constant practice on his field.

Notice the key words… Constant Practice.

Now, we then go back to the primary reason for the said perfect fit
and honestly ask ourselves… Is being “productively employed”
the ONLY way to have “constant practice”?

If “yes” then the story is over. This is like, if leaders are just born
then there’s no more argument. There would even be no need for
leadership workshops or trainings to improve such skills as it’s a
given, we can not improve our craft anymore. That, if it simply
boils down to innate leadership. Therefore, if being productively
employed is the only way to have constant practice then we could
throw “creativity” out of the window. There would be no need for us
to think out-of-the-box or to constantly seek ways to enhancing
ourselves as we “already” sit on that chair.

How many of you would then agree to such notion? To born leader
and hence, to being “productively employed” as the only way to have
“constant practice” in one’s field?

For those who do, you would surely be met by glaring eyes and
strong resistance brought about by common sense.

Why? Think again.

So now as we see, logic points out that being productively employed
is not the only way to have constant practice in one’s field… in fact,
there’s so many ways, it’s just a matter of being resourceful and
goal-oriented.

“In every soul there has been deposited the seed of a great future,
but that seed will never germinate, much less grow to maturity,
except through the rendering of useful service.”
- The Law Of Success

What then is the point here? Am I defending the unemployed??
Certainly not. The point is if you, headhunters, want to really
recruit the best… think out-of-the-box. If you really want creative
people, don’t be traditional in your manner of selection but
be creative yourself.

You have to grow past the age wherein the ideal candidate is the
one that fits the glass slippers. Instead, you have to move forward
with your kind of thinking… for no matter what form of technical or
hiring techniques you use, the results would be the same old thing
if the one who made it is still traditional in his thinking.

The better candidate is the one that understands the glass slippers
and could create one himself.

“I am going to build the kind of nation that President Roosevelt
hoped for, President Truman worked for, and President Kennedy
died for.” - Lyndon B. Johnson

The best candidate is not necessarily the passive candidate.
It’s not about the round peg for the round hole. The ideal candidate
you should look out for is the man who has that drive, that inner
strength yet easy-going personality… and that sincerity to serve.

And in case of career transitions, understand that it’s enthusiasm
and high learning ability that should be given that attention as well.

“Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.”
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

For the candidate, it’s all a matter of being given that opportunity.

For the headhunter, it’s all about moving forward and articulating.

For the Leader, it’s just time to accept the origins of Great Talents.

Remember… “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve
before kings; he will not serve before obscure men.” - Proverbs 22:29

Connecting Leaders...

2009-06-06T21:29:00.002+08:00

The internet has gone to greater heights, not only has it made the
world smaller but it made the flow of information faster which is
crucial to decision making. We are now building virtual bridges
that connects people and business with more efficiency and range.

Yet, more important than what there is now is what is yet to come.
For us who eternally aspires, there’s always another mountain to
climb, there’s always a bigger goal to fulfill.

Mind you, our business in this world is to succeed; however, we
can not do it alone. People need people. And the internet has
indeed brought “networking” to a higher dimension.

Here are some of the most notable reasons for networking…

OPPORTUNITIES. This could be job or business. See, if you
really think about it… if man doesn’t need to eat, there would be
no need to work. Understand that work, studies, innovation…
they all start from man’s need to work and improve his way of life;
again, because man needs to eat.

We are all in this world together… still many are hungry, many are
selfish and so, many souls get lost in the worries of life…
ending up in acts of crime.

”If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need
but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?
Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue
but with actions and in truth.” - 1 John 3:17-18

Do I hear… “but I am not charity”?

Leaders, readers… have a heart yet this section is not really about
donating tithes. This section is about giving opportunities to those
who needs it. It’s about giving jobs.

One can not say that this person lacks experience, education or
what. Every person on earth has use, has value… and everything
can be learned. All they need is a chance to prove themselves.

Now being a True Leader that you are, it is to your benefit as well
if you know how to spot then hire talents. People are investments.
They help you make money. They help you further your cause.

“If you are successful remember that somewhere, sometime,
someone gave you a lift or an idea that started you in the right
direction. Remember, also, that you are indebted to life until you
help some less fortunate person, just as you were helped.”
- The Law Of Success

On the other hand, looking closely within, business opportunities
actually has the same effect as job opportunities. See, how do you
sell your products? Isn’t it through the cooperation of your people?
This is from production to sales and so on. You invest on people
to help your business. You recruit people to expand, to seek
greener pastures, to even help you close deals.

True Leaders know that people are not costs, people make things
happen. They are your greatest assets.

KNOWLEDGE. Many networkers say they connect to share what
they know, to help those seeking answers… and with the
mushrooming of online business networks, the answers we seek
are just on our fingertips. Ideas are exchanged. Experiences are
told.

“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do
to you…” - Matthew 7:12

Look, doing such acts of goodwill is not about religion, it’s about
being human. Life is temporary. It would be a waste of time to
pull each other down just to get up. For if we examine life closely,
what we plant is what we harvest.

We gain knowledge because we initiated. We succeed because
we planted and nurtured the seed of cooperation.

INTERESTS. As they say, “birds of the same feather flock together.”
This is reality, the basis of relationships, whether business or social.

Realize that when we connect with people, we do not immediately
have that “friend”… but, connecting provides that opportunity to
build a bond and grow in many ways, thereby, mutually benefiting
the parties concerned.

“Mr. Morgan buys his partners, I grow my own.” - Andrew Carnegie

It’s a small world and it has even become smaller. Business has
its ups and downs but life is not really hard. True Leaders are
those who can make things work for everyone, with courage and
confidence.

We’re not here to ignore cries for help nor to pull one down just to
get up… after all, “networking” is not simply about numbers but
about helping and growing in more ways than one. We can make
this planet a better place if we only learn how to truly care.

By connecting people, we connect Leaders… and with Faith,
we can now look forward to witnessing the power of networking.

Together, WE WILL MAKE IT.

Remember…
“Power grows out of Cooperation… strengthened by Connecting Leaders.”

The Valued AB Member...

2009-05-31T22:49:00.003+08:00

“He that builds a fair house upon an ill seat, committeth himself
into prison.” - Francis Bacon

What happens when a company takes in an AB member?
More than one’s ability to perform his duties, what makes a good
AB member?

Is it just knowledge of business practices and its impact to the
organization and industry as a whole? Is it experience? What?
Remember, everything can be learned, though you have to learn
it fast enough. What then are the underlying factors to consider
in getting AB members?

Understand that the Advisory Board is a group of personalities…
some strong, some prideful, others what have you. Therefore,
one’s ability to communicate well is one key factor. With this
in mind, we then have to consider those who are able to work with
such diversity; while having the spine to say what’s wrong, what’s
really going on, and to stand his turf when necessary.

The Advisory Board isn’t there to be either so agreeable or
otherwise but formed to leave no stones unturned in its
quest for the gold.

Hence, dedication here is another important factor.

“A man who is good enough to shed his blood for the country
is good enough to be given a square deal afterwards. More than
that, no man is entitled to, and less than that, no man shall have.”
- Theodore Roosevelt

Conflict of interests… I am sure you know this. But then, it is not
about preventing one from engaging in other activities. It is about
understanding one’s responsibilities and being accountable for it.
It’s about giving one’s heart to his duties without prejudice to the
company he serves.

Consequently, integrity comes into play.
As Viscount Slims defines it… it is the quality which makes people
trust you. Integrity is wholeness but it also has a moral sense.
That is why most people virtually equate integrity with honesty or
sincerity. Although it is impossible to prove it, simply holding firmly to
sovereign values outside yourself grows a wholeness of personality
and moral strength of character. The person of integrity will always
be tested. And the first real test comes when the demands of the
truth or good appears to conflict with one’s self-interest or prospects.

“A man who will steal for me will steal from me.”
- Theodore Roosevelt

Now, if you have control over yourself then you have temperance,
a vital factor that displays your potential to be calm and analytical
in every situation… resulting in better decisions and your ability to
act appropriately.

“A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself
under control.” - Proverbs 29:11

In the end, it's just all about one’s personality.

Is your company ready to move forward?

Remember… “He that will not apply new remedies must expect new evils:
for time is the greatest innovator.” - Francis Bacon

Virtual Leadership...

2009-05-23T20:27:00.004+08:00

Remember those times when there was still no internet? Those
times when it took us more than a second to process international
transactions? Those times when we need to fly each time we need
to meet people? Well… that was just yesterday.

Today, with the advent of the internet, our way of life has changed
and of course, this includes how we conduct business, how we
recruit talents, and yes, how we lead.

“A fundamental new rule for business is that
the internet changes everything.” - Bill Gates

Virtual Leadership. How different is this from other means of
leadership? No, we are not talking about leadership styles here
but “means.” So, how do we go about virtual leadership?

A good example that is comparable though not totally the same
as virtual leadership is the “home-and-away” business set-up.
This takes the form of having, as we know, the company’s
headquarters empower its branches and mainly acts on
strategic goals.

Like the home-and-away set-up, virtual leadership is the central
brain that guides the rest of the company. However, unlike the
former, the latter is virtually connected 24/7… making a seamless
information link throughout the organization.

“You know you have built an excellent digital nervous system when
information flows through your organization as quickly and naturally
as thought in human being… it’s business at the speed of thought.”
- Bill Gates

This link that crosses borders and cultures is like putting the world
on the palm of your hands… as we now know, businesses then
becomes more efficient with automation but not necessarily replacing
human “power.” And with information flowing at the speed of thought,
we are able to fully utilize our people’s potentials while better
understanding our customers needs. In turn, decision-making then
becomes even more precise… this is the essence of Leadership.

“The CEO’s role in raising company’s corporate IQ is to establish
an atmosphere that promotes knowledge sharing and collaboration.”
- Bill Gates

Yet more than information flow, more than teamwork, what does
virtual leadership bring to the whole organization?

OMNIPRESENCE. We can never be in more than one place at the
same time, even the mythical superman can not; but with the
advancement in technology, Leaders can now serve and connect
their people and customers from all over the world.

FLEXIBILITY. As a Leader, the aim is to develop maximum flexibility
within our chosen field… so that we are the master at reading the
changes in situations and responding with the appropriate leadership
style. When we are able to widen our work knowledge and develop
the general abilities of leading others, this will increase our flexibility.

CONTROL. If we have omnipresence, if we have flexibility then
leading, as in this case globally, would be more effective. Policies
and procedures would be more aligned with objectives. Creativity
and problem-solving would be more proactive. Risk-taking would
be taken with more courage. And exploring opportunities would
yield more benefits and good investments, both human and capital.
All these spell one thing… better control.

We can not do everything and everywhere on our own, it’s a fact.
We need to properly utilize people and technology to serve our
customers better to meet our goals… this is Virtual Leadership.

It is all about blending.

Remember…
“I not only use all the brains that I have, but all that I can borrow.” - Woodrow Wilson

Situational Leadership...

2009-05-15T19:46:00.002+08:00

If business is unpredictable as we know it, then we are periodically
faced with different situations to deal with. Social, technical or
economic developments make business seem like the weather.
This is the test of our mettle as a Leader.

How then do you face such situations? Do you just jump and swim?
This can’t be, if so, most all businesses would be at risk of losing
money more than achieving their objectives.

But what about courage? Isn’t it that courage is the one key quality
that can be found in successful Leaders?

Well, yes.

“Courage is the quality that guarantees all others.”
- Winston Churchill

But this courage does not mean business suicide. This courage does
not mean to put your organization at great risk of crumbling. This
courage is about having the guts to move forward… to explore…
to think out-of-the-box... to invest in potentials… to step out of your
comfort zone, your status quo. Courage is about not waiting for the
perfect, but bending rules to get the better.
This is how to create opportunities.

Consider an excerpt from a leadership book by Jeffrey J. Fox:

Become a member of the “shouldn’t have club”…
People who belong to the “should’ve club” are always saying,
“I should’ve done that”; “I could’ve done that”; or “I would’ve done that.”
The “should’ve club” is full of nondoers, the risk averse.
They never go for it. They are so afraid of losing,
they never plan to win.

The “should’ve club”... never get cut or scratched. They never miss
a shot in the last second. There are no reprimands, and they make
no waves. There is not an Arnold Palmer or Chris Evert or
Larry Bird in this club.

The “shouldn’t have club” is the place to be. This is the winners’ circle.
Each time you admonish yourself… there will be ten other times
when the results will prove you should have.

No guts, no glory.

…

But then, is courage enough? Well, you have just read some
thoughts from Winston Churchill. Thus, courage is the master key
but not the only key.

“Chance favors the prepared mind.” - Louis Pasteur

To lead effectively in different situations, you got to have the basic
knowledge of your field and grow it with time, thought, and practice.
Yet like courage, such knowledge and experience does not make
you into a leader, but you can not be without it. That does not mean
that leaders can not change fields, like becoming a Managing Director
of an electronic company after running a car assembly plant; but it
implies that they will not be successful unless they can quickly learn
the essentials of the new industry or occupation.

Still, courage and expertise or learning ability is not enough…
as a Leader, a vital trait would be to possess the kind of temperament
required by the working “situations” you are in.

Business has it’s ups and downs… and in times of crisis, one’s ability
to think fast yet accurately and then decide well is greatly determined
by one’s ability to get hold of himself.

Remember… “People who are incapable of relaxing should never be placed
in positions of responsibility.” - Lord Chalfront

The Origins Of A Leader...

2009-05-09T20:05:00.005+08:00

“But what then am I? A thing that thinks. What is that?
A thing that doubts, understands, affirms, denies, is willing,
is unwilling, and also imagines and has sensory perceptions.”
- Rene Descartes

We all have ideas on what makes a Leader. We even have heard
of timeless arguments such as whether leaders are born or made.
So now, we go into probing on the origins of a Leader.

First, let’s be reminded that we are talking about humans here,
so leaders if for this reason alone, are born. However, generally
life does not end at one’s birth otherwise, nobody would be a leader.
At this stage then, leaders although born with qualities such as
intelligence, is more of raised. Thus, if a child Is raised in a
supportive and constructive environment, a leader would be born.

Yet again, life does not stop here.

As people gets older and are exposed to different situations, his
decision-making skills are honed… and other traits like confidence,
determination, humility, compassion, resourcefulness, and
resiliency come into fore. These traits which are developed through
time and intensity become the foundation of a Leader.

What do we have now?

As we have observed, Leaders are then in a way both born and
made. As in, although IQ is an in-born quality, if you do not acquire
knowledge in some way and learn to apply it, intelligence becomes
a non-factor. This is like having a supercomputer, if you do not put
any data or command for it to operate with, it’s useless. Still even
if you have a slower chip, if you know how to upgrade and program
your computer for a purpose then it would meet the requirements.

See, Leadership, like any high calling, is a continuous process.
It does not end at being CEO. It only starts to get even more
challenging and exciting… because now, you are not only the
primary factor in your organization, but you also have a greater
chance to influence your industry as well.

“Mr. Mandela has walked a long road and now stands at the top
of the hill. A traveller would sit down and admire the view. But a
man of destiny knows that beyond this hill lies another and another.
The journey is never complete.” - F.W. de Klerk

Think about this… what actually puts one in a leadership position is
who he knows… and also being at the right place at the right time.
Many may say it’s their experience or their education, training or
whatever; yet, nobody can really say that he is the best qualified
candidate as there’s just so many to choose from with only the
slightest of differences from each other… if only based for what
they believe they are qualified for.

“There is a commodity in human experience.
If it’s happened to one person, it has happened
to thousands of others.” - Oprah Winfrey

And of course, this speaks for those recruiting as well. See, many
may have the technical tools to assist in their search for talents,
but ultimately they unknowingly end up with the second best at
most.

Why?

Many are still traditional in their thinking, so the tools they develop
are traditional in effectiveness as well. They fail to look at the big
picture. All they see is experience which is actually just repetition
gained from exposure by the opportunity given to the individual.
They failed to understand the non-traditional means of Leadership
experience. They failed to realize one’s learning ability and how
one has evolved as an individual, as a Leader.

They simply overlooked the origins of a Leader.

Keep in mind, therefore, that the qualifications 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. Everything can be learned,
hence, the determining factor is really one’s character more than
anything else.

“If you have raced with men on foot and they have worn you out,
how can you compete with horses? If you stumble in a safe country,
how will you manage in the thickets by the Jordan?” - Jeremiah 12:5

When you are brave enough to take that leap... to meet unpleasant
situations… to see beyond the surface… to adapt quickly to change…
to understand what makes the clock tick…to stand firm with goals
and right principles… to just keep going… this is when you are ready
to take on greater responsibilities.

“The one word that makes a good manager – decisiveness.” - Lee Iacocca

Remember… “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings;
he will not serve before obscure men.” - Proverbs 22:29

The Heart Of A Leader...

2009-05-01T21:05:00.002+08:00

You guessed it right!
After talking about spirituality, EQ, and the mind…
it’s the heart of the Leader this time.

Now, if we look closely, the heart has actually played a key role
in shaping EQ and spirituality; and to some extent, it has also
greatly affected the mind.

With this, let’s clear out some issues surrounding the real impact
of the heart on a Leader’s personality.

ISSUE NUMBER 1: Emotions make a leader weak.
Why? Is it because the heart is more related to feelings rather
than logic? Well, then ask yourself, how could a leader then
truly empathize and inspire his people if not for the heart?

People are not “robots” who would just do everything you say
without tiring. People needs some form of motivation to keep going.
People are not controlled and corrected by “microchips” but would
also need discipline for rectification and rewards for their efforts…
after all, even dogs need to be patted and given food after a job
well done.

Hence, realize that it’s the heart that truly understands
and not the mind.

“Logic! Logic! I don’t give a damn for logic.
I am going to include pensions.” - Woodrow Wilson

Yet the heart is not about disagreeing with the mind, it’s about
affirming the mind of doing the right thing.

Emotions, therefore, only strengthen the Leader’s disposition.

ISSUE NUMBER 2: The heart is subjective in it’s judgments, thus,
being more prone to miscalculations and errors.
Have you considered leaders who disregard the heart in their
decision-makings? What do you notice?? They have this tendency
to be tyrants. Yes, they are followed and “perceived” to be strong
by their followers, but the legacy that they would finally leave would
be on the “dark side.”

“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.” - THE LAW OF SUCCESS

Understand then that the heart lapses only when objectives
are not taken to heart.

ISSUE NUMBER 3: To lead with kindness is like “begging” for
cooperation. What?? Then I ask the skeptics, do you really know
what kindness is? What begging is? What cooperation is?

Better yet, how do you want to be led? Your answer speaks the
kind of treatment you then deserve.

See, does the word “please” and “thank you” degrade your status?
Remember, it’s how you say it that determines your position.
“Please” is never begging then, but to use it well is being educated
and worthy of respect.

Kindness tears the walls of indifference and positively reinforces
cooperation, hard work, and dedication among your people.

A Leader that subtly touches the heart of his supporters, powers
his followers… and weakness is when you can not follow through
with your words.

“In the end, you’re measured not by how much you undertake
but by what you finally accomplish.” - Donald Trump

When everything has been said and done…
the mind is at peace when the heart is satisfied.

Remember…
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” - Matthew 6:21

The Mind Of A Leader...

2009-04-24T19:30:00.002+08:00

Have you ever wondered what’s “really” in the mind of a Leader?
What? Leadership practices? Growth? Success? Don’t you think
these are just too predictable? How about being a little more
specific then?

For a great Leader, major in the mind would be Reputation,
Originality, and Legacy.

REPUTATION. This pertains to now. To what you are now. The
general estimation of the public on you. It accounts for what you
have done and how could you affect the future. This is about your
public face.

To build a strong reputation does not mean to just break rules; it
does not mean to disregard people; it does not mean to force your
way through… but it also does not mean to be a “yes” man.

“I can not give you the formula for success, but I can give you the
formula for failure which is: try to please everybody.”
- Herbert B. Swoope

To build a strong reputation is to build a good reputation. You are
a Leader because you generally have “followers.” You have
followers not only because of your charisma but because of your
vision that they believe in; because you know what you are doing;
and because they would also get something out of the venture.

A Leader’s good reputation then stems from being given an
opportunity to shine. And with courage, good people skills, and
accurate thinking… everything falls into place.

Once a Leader has built a good reputation, it does not matter what
other people say, for in the end he would have much more
supporters then detractors.

ORIGINALITY. In this case, what is originality “really” all about?
Well, the common understanding of originality is that nobody has
ever thought or done “it” before; that it’s the first of it’s kind.

Well, that’s the general perception, but actually there’s more to it.

“Keep on the look out for novel ideas that others have used
successfully. Your idea has to be original only in it’s adaptation to
the problem you’re working on.” - Thomas A. Edison

Understand that if you just keep looking for ways to be “original”
as how the general public sees it, then you won’t make it big.

Why?

Because you are simply wasting too much time on your search
without any real output. Realize that “originality” comes in different
forms, you just have to let your creative juice flow… originality,
then, will just reveal itself and build up.

This means just keep innovation up… soon, invention will show up.

“I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only
finds that there are many more hills to climb.” - Nelson Mandela

Therefore, do not procrastinate but use time well…
for the perfect moment may never come if you waste the good
that you could have done today.

LEGACY. This is something only truly great Leaders accomplish.
This is when food has been consumed but the savor still lingers.

“Your legacy should be that you made it better than it was
when you got it.” - Lee Iacocca

A legacy is not built overnight as the atomic bomb took time before
it was developed and made known.

So we see, a Leader can only build on a lasting legacy if he has
done something that has great impact on his industry… and it starts
with the organization that he is serving.

Genuine service is then the key.

“Every man takes care that his neighbor does not cheat him but a
day comes when he begins to care that he does not cheat his
neighbor. Then all goes well. He has changed his market cart into
a chariot of the sun.” - THE LAW OF SUCCESS

Serve then… and serve whole-heartedly, that’s what a True Leader
is all about. Once you put your soul into service, your passion will
just carry you to greater opportunities and more success.

Remember… “If the axe is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength
is needed but skill will bring success.” - ECCL. 10:10

The EQ of A Leader...

2009-04-17T14:33:00.002+08:00

How did a Leader come to be? What made him what he is?

For this issue, we talk about the EQ or the Emotional Quotient of
a Leader particularly focusing on it’s development.

If we take a close look at a Leader at work, you should notice that
he has already been made or at the very least, he is 80% of his
EQ potential. Why do we say this?

For one, he is already an adult… and a matured adult when he
became a business Leader. Therefore, although there’s always
room for improvement, his character is mostly in place.
And what about this 80%?

Well, in some instances, certain leaders still have yet to fully evolve
to their true potential… and this is because of their past or other
factors that has unconsciously held them back.

Leadership qualities develop through the years and is influenced by
several factors, thereby, contributing to his EQ make up.

One of the most notable contributors to a Leader’s EQ is his family
background or values.

Realize that the first 7 years of a human being’s life is crucial to
character development, hence, one’s family plays a nurturing role
on how a Leader came to be.

As a child, parents could help in the developing of one’s confidence,
curiosity, intentionality, self-control, relatedness, the capacity to
communicate, and the ability to cooperate which are essential in a
potential Leader.

We will then notice that children with high EQ’s are more popular,
adaptable, empathetic, and friendly. They are more persistent in
doing a task and would not give up so easily.

As a child grows, other EQ influences come into play such as peer
group, school, the community, culture, religion… all, finally to be
made manifest at work and society as a whole.

What do we see here?

Envy, insecurity, pessimism, crab mentality, and bellicosity are the
hidden negatives that possess an undeserving leader… that is
made apparent by his bickering, being easily upset, scheming,
and whining which are just a few signs of a troubled childhood that
he has unconsciously brought with him.

“Every line a man writes, and every act in which he indulges,
and every word he utters serves as unescapable evidence
of the nature of that which is deeply imbedded in his own heart,
a confession that he cannot disavow.” - THE LAW OF SUCCESS

Consequently, to understand a person or a Leader for that matter…
to determine one’s potential to really contribute… to properly
appraise one’s leadership skills… do not just rely on technicalities,
you got to get down to the roots and understand his evolution as
a person.

While a Leader should be strong to lead, his strength is not about
coercion but about persuasiveness; it’s about his ability to say “no”
when necessary; it’s about his courage to take another route to
reach his destination; it’s about his optimistic spirit to give everyone
a chance; it’s about his resourcefulness in finding ways to achieve
targets or making do with what he has; and it’s about his humility
to admit mistakes, take responsibility, and have that resiliency to
bounce back.

And mind you, work experience has really very little to do with this
development but it all came from one’s progression as a person
that is seen in his beliefs and convictions.

Work experience is just the result of circumstances; of being at the
right place at the right time. And many times, one’s success is
simply the effect of one’s preparedness when opportunities
come knocking; of one’s willingness to sacrifice; and of one’s
heart for service.

“Your employer does not control the sort of service you render.
You control that, and it is the thing that makes or breaks you.”
- THE LAW OF SUCCESS

Remember…
EQ determines one’s potential, thus, Intuition plays a key role in assessment.

The Spirituality Of A Leader...

2009-04-10T23:02:00.003+08:00

It is another blog day, another Friday but no ordinary Friday as in
Christiandom, it is Good Friday. A good day to remind us that we
are not just in business, but we too have souls to feed.

Well, we may belong to different denominations, different religions,
with different customs and beliefs; but still, we are all on earth
together that we are brothers and sisters… that we should play fair
and help each other whenever possible.

But, is this really possible, that is to be a “conscientious” Leader?

I mean, playing fair and helping each other in such a competitive
world? With all these policies and trade regulations, it sure is
possible; yet, why are there still complaints? Answers could stem
from the fast technological evolution to business unpredictability;
however, the toughest cause to address would be deception and
plain selfishness from lost souls.

“What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet
forfeits his soul? Or what can man give in exchange for his soul?”
- Matthew 16:26

So, in comes religion.

Gentlemen. Ladies. I believe that every religion has a heart…
and that if only it’s followers would “truly” practice it’s doctrines,
the business world would be much more stable if not resilient.

In this present world, we see the spirituality of a leader in providing
economic stability and thereby, employment and better standards
of living is often an underrated and overlooked factor.

“The war against hunger is truly mankind’s war of liberation.” - JFK

A Leader should serve and does serve.

A Leader should think of others to be a deserving leader… take
Jesus as “the” example. Many might say “we are not charity or a
religious institution”; but then, whether you realize it or not,
you are now successful because of others.

“If you are successful remember that somewhere, sometime,
someone gave you a lift or an idea that started you in the right
direction. Remember, also, that you are indebted to life until you
help some less fortunate person, just as you were helped.”
- THE LAW OF SUCCESS

Religion helps develop that Spirituality; and with a lifelong conviction
through a personal creed or mission statement… we become more
painstaking in our undertakings and dealings with others.
We become “better” Leaders.

Aim high. Fly high. But remember, you are not alone.

So, let’s use our gifts for the glory of God and the good of mankind.

“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

Are we getting too religious here, do I sound like a clergyman, or
are you just losing your sense for rightful leadership?

Maybe it is just time for you to reflect.

“It is impossible to rightly govern the world without the Bible.”
- George Washington

Remember… Great achievement…
is usually born of great sacrifice, and is never the result of selfishness.

Shape The Future... The Conclusion.

2009-04-03T11:15:00.003+08:00

Here now is the conclusion of the series “To Be THAT LEADER…”
through the last three components on what it takes to shape the
future.

As previously noted, the forming of key alliances, otherwise known
as our “support system”; the proper utilization of time; and knowing
when to trust our intuition are essential to realizing the future we
want… yet, there are three more ingredients which if not included
would only see a sour if not a bitter tomorrow.

“But I see history as a book with many pages – and each day
we fill a page with acts of hopefulness and meanings.”
- George H.W. Bush

The Last Three…

GET AHEAD. To shape the future, to take the lead, we got to put
our thoughts into action. A leader may have the most creative mind;
profound analytical and reasoning skills; and an imagination way
ahead of our time… but if he does not act with courage, he is merely
a poser not a doer.

“It is from numberless diverse acts of courage and belief that
human history is shaped.” - Robert Kennedy

Hence… Invest. Invent. Innovate.

By investing on talents and futuristic projects, we get our hands on
the steering wheel. By inventing, we turn our imagination to reality.
By innovating, we bring life to what was previously thought as a
dead product, a dead process.

It all starts in the mind… and realized by organized effort.

“To build a twenty-first-century economy, America must revive a
nineteenth-century habit – investing in the common, national
economic resources that enable every person and every firm to
create wealth and value.” - Bill Clinton

MASTER DIPLOMACY. Yes, we talked about “hooking up” or
creating our support system, but that’s only like networking –
we simply connect or join clubs.

In diplomacy, we see the development of that connection. It is
more than finding common ground, it is pushing cooperation.
It is about transforming annoyance to fondness, thereby, opening
the floodgates for lucrative deals… critical to shaping the future.

Yet, good communication skills is, unfortunately, not in every
leader’s arsenal. And so, this explains one’s potential to really
succeed.

“Some there be that can pack the cards and yet can not play well;
so there are some that are good in canvasses and factions,
that are otherwise weak men.” - Francis Bacon

See, to have the mind and determination to make better the world…
but not the ability to articulate one’s vision in a clear and convincing
fashion… is like having a car with flat tires.

And take note, diplomacy is not about being a “yes” man, but about
being empathetic yet rational and firm. This then earns you that
needed respect and cooperation.

“We must adjust to changing times and still hold on to unchanging
principles.” - Jimmy Carter

HAVE FAITH. To move forward, we have to trust our abilities…
and we have to trust God, the source of everything.

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.”
- Proverbs 16:3

In all the changes and circumstances that has been happening in
this world, things did not occur by chance… understand that luck is
what happens when preparation and opportunity meet.

To have faith, we need focus. We need determination. We need
action. We need resourcefulness and resiliency.

We can not afford to procrastinate. We can not afford to chicken out.

“Obstacles are what you see when you take your eyes off
your goals.” - Henry Ford

We just have to keep walking to reach our destination. And run to
get ahead of change, we have to understand that the weather may
suddenly shift and things could get delayed; but there are ways
and soon, the sun will shine. So do not stop but be strong.
Rest if you must but never give up.

“Don’t be afraid of a little opposition, remember that the ‘kite’ of
success generally rises against the wind of adversity – not with it!”
- THE LAW OF SUCCESS

Remember…
To Shape The Future… Imagine. Believe. Plan. Act. Persevere.

Shape The Future... The Special Edition.

2009-03-27T12:13:00.003+08:00

Before we come to the second half on what it takes to shape the
future, let’s use this time to realize the depth of the water.

In our first installment on shaping the future, we talked about how
important time and intuition are in molding what is yet to come.
Some or even many could have raised their eyebrows when I
suggested to trust their intuition.

Why?

They could be thinking that the suggestion is to disregard facts
in favor of hunches. For most, it could be a separation of logic from
decision-making; however, did I say to just “guess”?

Using intuition has it’s “special” time in business. It is when you
deal with people, whether hiring or people management; it is when
you get into product design; and in many cases, it is when your
back is against the wall. Haven’t you realized how much creativity
could propel your undertakings to success?

Creativity, in business, makes use of imagination which fuses with
“intuition.” Intuition is essential to being a futuristic leader. Hence,
creativity, imagination, and intuition go hand in hand into grasping
the cycle of birth and death; and seeing past the end of a cycle.

Now, understand that “intuition” is forecasting; and “forecasting” is
simply the proper use of one’s brain cells to predict the future.
It is also in the ability to see beyond the initial idea, through the
building process, and yes, past the completion of the project.

See, if Leadership were just being objective without the balance of
subjectiveness then we are like “robots”… and this explains why
there is stereotyping and bias, the two deadly sins that deprives
a company of “great ideas.”

More so, think about this…

Notice that some of the greatest corporate thefts happened
because we chose what looks nice on paper instead of balancing
things out with our intuition. Good for those crimes that have been
discovered, but what about those that has not been uncovered yet?

Well, to this date, they continue to milk your company of valuable
resources – and with your approval via your traditional thinking!

“America can not be an ostrich with it’s head in the sand.”
- Woodrow Wilson

Intuition is “courage.” Courage is an integral part of Leadership.
Intuition is not about “guessing.” Intuition is understanding the
situation with faith and confidence. And mind you, faith and
confidence are central to being A Leader; without these qualities,
you can never be a good Leader.

Look, we know that before we get to war, everything should be
considered. However, there are times when you do not have that
immediate access to resources; there are times when you are
just caught fighting without any bullets.

If so, would you just flee?

Good for you if you could. You could just then regroup and fight
another day. But what if you can not? Now, this is really when your
strength and abilities are tested! This is when intuition is specially
useful. Crisis makes a Hero!

Remember the first component to shaping the future? Fix yourself.
Do not be traditional but think out-of-the-box. Trust intuition to
release creativity. Have that courage.

“A little blindness is necessary when you undertake risk.”
- Bill Gates

Again, realize that we are not guessing nor throwing in the towel,
but in business, we should know how to blend logic with
intuition to our advantage. Nobody is in business to lose money
but see, only those who truly dares are those who really flourishes.

“When I look back on all these worries, I remember the story of the
old man who said on his death bed that he had had a lot of trouble
in his life, most of which had never happened.” - Winston Churchill

So, if you think you will lose, then you most certainly will... Success
begins in the mind. To win, you have to trust yourself. To thrive
in business, you got to be positive… to attract people and
money. And to shape a better tomorrow, you got to learn how to
use intuition for everyone’s benefit.

Our best preparation for tomorrow is the proper use of today.

Remember…
To Shape The Future… get out of that shell.

To Be THAT LEADER... Shape The Future.

2009-03-20T14:41:00.004+08:00

The last piece to being “that” Leader lies in one’s ability to see…
and shape the future.

“Yesterday is not ours to recover, but tomorrow is ours
to win or lose.” - Lyndon B. Johnson

Although leaders already know about this, it continues to be a
missing piece in the arsenal of many leaders.

Do you still remember the first six components on “to be that
Leader”? Well, true leadership is first and foremost for the
courageous yet humble spirit. Learn from the learned, however,
learn to listen to everyone.

“I know of no case where a man added to his dignity by
standing on it.” - Winston Churchill

It is certainly good to be ambitious but it is far better if you
achieve while playing fair.

As the final piece of the puzzle in being “that” Leader, shaping
the future could sound a bit absurd to some; after all, nobody
really knows “exactly” what will happen in the future. The key
then here is just to “trust” that little voice and go for it; again, not
in haste but with quick, thorough thought.

“Neglecting to broaden their view has kept some men
doing one thing all their lives.” -THE LAW OF SUCCESS

How do we shape the future? We hear many say by getting
ahead of change, but how exactly??

Here are the first three of Six Components to Shape The Future…

FIX YOURSELF… is simply a matter of refreshing not only the
values we learned from mom and dad, but the “focus” we were
encouraged to use.

To know what we really want and to put all our positive energies
to it. This is all about trusting your inner being, that little voice…
your intuition. For only by doing so would you be able to release
that creativity within. And as we know, “creativity” is central to
professional and business success as it creates that ripple effect.

“The only preparation for prospering in the global economy is
investing in ourselves.” - Bill Clinton

By honestly knowing yourself, you will know what to fix… what
works and what does not; and so, you will be able to realign your
goals with real time.

HOOK UP. Remember our previous discussions about alliances
and relationships? Yes, to shape the future, you need help to
clear the pathway to success. Hook up.

“It is not whether people like you but whether they share the bright
dreams… and understand the heartbeat of the country.”
- George H.W. Bush

Bridging people is initially about goals, about interests… and not
about “likeability.” Build on those as dreams and you will stand
firm on common ground. When you strengthen your allies, you
strengthen your hold on tomorrow. Realize that connecting with
the right people is crucial to shaping the future.

“A wise man has great power, and a man of knowledge increases
strength; for waging war you need guidance and for victory
many advisers.” - Proverbs 24:5-6

SEE BEYOND. Foresight. Forecast. Foreknowledge. Foretell.
All synonymous to “predicting” on what would likely happen before
it happens. Accept it or not, intuition has a lot to do with what is
yet to come; yet why are many still skeptical about “intuition”?

”Some men see things as they are and say why? I dream things
that never were and say ‘why not?’” - Robert Kennedy

Obviously, this skepticism is blocking what many would have far
accomplished if they only learned to trust their hunches...
skepticism then is proving to be the invisible barrier towards
achievement; and unfortunately, intuition has become the unseen
key to survival in trying times.

We see many leaders not rely on intuition when they should have
specially in people management and product development.

Let me ask you…
Do you need a full-length of data just to grasp what’s bugging your
men? Do you need all those figures to know what makes ‘em tick?
Do you need a “piece of paper” just to spot and invest on talents?
Don’t you think that all you need is to fully understand the person
without bias or stereotyping?

Hence, all you should do is know what motivates them… what they
are good at… as well as their learning potentials and... how you
can maximize those abilities for the benefit of concerned entities.

See, if we have time to study our competitors and customers,
why not have time to study our people? Don’t you now realize
why leaders never really learn? Many are just too focused on
conquering without being acquainted with what they have and
“really” need… many are just misusing time, energy, and
eventually more money on what they believe is good for the
company, when it is only really good for themselves…
and their “status quo.”

People are Assets. They help oil your organization. They help
you attain goals. To know your men is to prepare for victory.
To invest on talents is to see beyond. To trust in intuition is to
shape the future. All we need now is to clean our scope.

What you want the world to be… depends on what you do now.

“Time waste differs from material waste in that there can be
no salvage.” - Henry Ford

Remember…
To Shape The Future… Time and Intuition are of the Essence.

Steer The Company… The Final 4 Keys.

2009-03-13T15:27:00.005+08:00

As expected, we now come to the final four keys to victory…

ARMY. If you believe that most organizations have the right
people, you are right. But why do they still falter greatly?
Well, because “right” is not enough, you need “better” people.

“Personnel selection is decisive.
People are our most valuable capital.” - Joseph Stalin

Yet, once you attract “better” people, it doesn’t stop there.
You got to invest in them. You got to grow them, keep them
happy, reward and discipline as well. And take note, when you
delegate, it should come with some power.

“I stand for the square deal… I mean not merely that I should
stand for fair play under the present rules of the game, but that I
should stand for having those rules changed so as to work for a
more substantial equality of opportunity and of reward for equally
good service.” - Theodore Roosevelt

Thus, to effectively lead people, you should know how to handle
people. In many instances, a Leader who is a good story-teller
would prove to be critical. He would be able to bring clarity to the
team through embodiment; and the balance of reward and
discipline through the moral of the story.

Childish? Think again.

It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.

“A simple and proper function of government is just
to make it easy for us to do good and difficult for us
to do wrong.” - George H.W. Bush

ENVIRONMENT. While we talk about terrain in battle, here in
our business analogy, we would specially look into its weather.
Therefore, it’s knowing when to bring an umbrella or what is it for.
It’s having the nose of when to be sober or when to attack.

When you develop a good sixth sense and combine it with sensible
forecasting techniques, you will get a good grip of what to expect.

When you are constantly aware of what’s going on around you,
you will know what to adjust and prepare for.

In battle as in competition, never underestimate your opponent…
you may know their weapons but you may not know their capacity
to make the environment work for them. Hence, do your homework.

As while we can not really stop the rain from falling, take heart,
we can use the inclement weather to surprise the enemy… or to
seek opportunities and advantages; and of course, avoid landmines.

“Opportunity makes a thief.” - Francis Bacon

TIME. We keep hearing from many leaders, “timing is vital.” But
then, I would just like to remind you, “time waits for no one.”
Your future is today. Whatever is lost in time is lost forever.

Therefore, while rushing is never preached but thorough thinking,
do not… I say, do not procrastinate.

“We must use time as a tool, not as a couch.” - JFK

Your future is today. Whatever you do today would affect your
tomorrow. So do not just wait for opportunity to come, but create
that opportunity you want for your organization.

“He that will not apply new remedies must expect new evils:
for time is the greatest innovator.” - Francis Bacon

In Leadership, in goal-setting… time is of the essence.

ALLIANCES. While your men are your allies, getting your
neighbors involved would strengthen your defenses. Countries
that united for a common goal saw their interests served as well.

For companies, it could come in the form of associations and alike.
Joining such, gives you a louder voice on government policies
as well as immediate access to some essential information and
updates in your industry.

“Knowledge is Power.” - Francis Bacon

Yet more than knowledge, without organized effort in the form of
cooperation among peers, crucial training for employees, and
strong management support… everything would be an uphill climb.

“Mr. Morgan buys his partners; I grow my own.” - Andrew Carnegie

We can see then that it is your alliances from within that would
ultimately spell the difference. Hence, strengthening our base
would be like an insurance for the long haul.

…

To steer a company… with consideration to all 8 keys to victory:
battlefield, resources, attitude, schemes, army, environment, time,
and alliances… inevitably boils down to the control of your army.

"THE CONTROL OF A LARGE FORCE is the same in principle
as the control of a few men; it is merely a question of dividing up
their numbers.” - Sun Tzu

The question now is “how do you get commitment from followers”?
How do you motivate? How do you lead? Is it through “rewards”?
Coercion? Expertise? Position? Charisma?

Your ways determine your strength… as “that” Leader.

Finally, when we have the necessary information, whether it’s
from inside or outside the organization… problem-solving and
decision-making would be more accurate and timely.

With these, steering a company would not really be that tough.
Oh, do I hear theoretical? Well, everything starts in the mind…
and the rest is just a matter of guts, of flexibility, of quick, critical
thinking, of knowing why the company exists and of understanding
what makes it tick.

“In the emerging global economy, everything is mobile: capital,
factories, even entire industries. The only resource that’s really
rooted in a nation – and the ultimate source of all its wealth –
is its people.” - Bill Clinton

Remember…
Steering The Company is simply a matter of deployment & work methods.

To Be THAT LEADER... Steer The Company.

2009-03-06T12:45:00.002+08:00

As Abraham Lincoln said...

"If I had 8 hours to chop down a tree,
I'd spend 6 hours sharpening my axe."

Here, Abraham Lincoln emphasized the importance of planning,
of imagination, of critical thinking, of analysis, of training...
in short, of doing one's homework before proceeding in any
undertaking. Such is an offspring of having an objective.

So, as to steer a company, if we do not have a master plan,
alternative plans, and contingency plans... this is like walking
blindfolded; and just totally relying on luck.

See, steering a company is like coaching a sports team,
flying a passenger plane, or marshalling an army for battle.

Let's consider a phrase in the most significant book ever written
for Leadership, Sun Tzu's The Art Of War.

"The general who wins a battle makes many calculations
in his temple before the battle is fought."

To steer a company to "victory", you do not just put up a
business and boom! Attack! First... do your homework.

Without knowing what you have; without acquiring or knowing
how to acquire what you need; without understanding the
environment, the trends; without recognizing the value of time;
without getting proper support and forming alliances; without
knowing your competitors and customers; without having better
and motivated people; and without believing in yourself and
your product -- you won't win.

Here are the first four of Eight Keys To Victory...

BATTLEFIELD. Know thyself, thy competitors, and thy customers.

To know thyself, here, we refer to our objectives and products.
With objectives as your guide, you will know how to fight; and
of course, with your product in mind, you know the viability of
what you have to offer.

To know thy competitors, not only do you have to know their
weapons but if possible, you also have to know their plans.
The most obvious way is through continuous research; but the
more effective way is by getting hold of what they "spat" out.
These are the "exiting" or even the "disgruntled" employees.

Did I hear the word "professionalism"?
Why, did I say "steal" their magic recipe??

"You can tell a lot about a fellow's character
by the way he eats jelly beans." - Ronald Reagan

I'm sure you've heard of "laid-off", "down-sized", "offer sheet", etc..
Well, even simple yet nonintrusive job interviews could make your
imagination go to work. Think about these words from Sun Tzu...

"If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the
result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy,
for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know
neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle."

To know thy customers is to know thyself, to know thy competitors,
and say what? To know thy family.

While we can do surveys and all, why not get "honest" opinions
from your family regarding your products? You then hit two birds
with one stone.

"Seek the counsel of men who will tell you the truth about yourself,
even if it hurts you to hear it. Mere commendation will not bring the
improvement you need." - THE LAW OF SUCCESS

RESOURCES. On open ground and broad daylight, can a cane
defeat a machine gun? Without any assistance, can a ten-wheeler
reach its destination without gasoline? What is your pen for if
it can't write? If you do not know where to get wood, what is the
use of your hearth?

See, if we don't have the materials we need, how can we build?
If we don't know where and how to secure them, how can we
proceed? If we don't get enough of it, how can we successfully
penetrate the market? If we don't get it on time, how can we
satisfy customers?

"You can create excitement, you can do wonderful promotion
and get all kinds of press... but if you don't deliver the goods,
people will eventually catch on." - Donald Trump

In this case, whether capital or products, without understanding
the source... we can not continue operating over the long haul.

Yet, when provisions are low and supplies are scarce or steep,
these are the times when we just have to patch things up and
extend on what we have. This is the test on the Leader's resolve
and it's when creativity and resourcefulness come to play.

If you know where to fish... if you know how to fish...
if you know when to fish... and if you know what to fish,
then you will never go hungry.

ATTITUDE. We are well aware of those qualities and traits a
Leader should have but more than any of those... if you do not
believe in yourself or your product, you are in for sure defeat.
The key then is not to get into something if you have doubts or
if you do not have the courage to overcome those doubts.

"The clear light of science teaches us that we must be our own
saviours, if we are to be found worth saving." - Luther Burbank

While Leadership is simply a matter of opportunity;
bear in mind that success is only for those who dare.

Think big. Believe big. Act big. And the results will be Big.

This is more than just to strike and strike; but of having that aim
of where and when to strike and not being afraid of striking hard.

To steer a company, you must understand that you are the
company, therefore you should lead by example. You should
command a disposition of trustworthiness that you would stand
by your men and firmness to see the mission accomplished.

The mark of a Leader is his courage to take accountability.

"If you'll be my voice today,
I'll be yours for the next four years." - Bill Clinton

SCHEMES. Just as mentioned earlier... plan, for battles are won
on plans and not by luck alone. Think hard then... and don't be
traditional. Mind you, 3 x 3 is not the only way to get a 9!
You have heard of thinking out-of-the-box, do it; and don't be
discouraged by idea killers. Focus on goals instead.

Take note, that in order to win, you have to outwit your opponent.

"The enviably attractive nephew who sings an Irish ballad for the
company and winsomely disappears before the table-clearing
and dishwashing begin." - Lyndon B. Johnson

Hence, let your strategies be flexible and numerous. Get your
lieutenants involved in strategizing for your company as well.

"Make plans by seeking advice; if you wage war, obtain guidance."
- Proverbs 20:18

In developing your stratagem, answer the basics (NPP):

What must be done? What actions must be taken to reach the objective?
Why must it be done? Is the investment of resources justified?
When should it be done? Dates, time frames and deadlines should be selected and coordinated.
Who should do it? Appropriate personnel must be selected.
Where should it be done? Where will the appropriate people, materials, and equipment be located?
How should it be done? What are the ways and means? Can current methods be used or should new ones be developed?

Realize that greater victories come when you know
how is it to lose before you lose.

"Your legacy should be that you made it better than it was
when you got it." - Lee Iacocca

The Final Four Keys... Army, Environment, Time, and Alliances... will be up next.

Remember...
To Steer The Company... realize that You Are The Company.

To Be THAT LEADER... Create Wealth.

2009-02-27T11:13:00.007+08:00

We now come to the part that entrepreneurs and shareholders
are most concerned with - Generating Revenue.

Everything has a price. There is no such possibility as "something
for nothing." And so, to earn money, you got to spend money.

Well... are all assets spelled in dollars anyway?
Not necessarily, but in business at least, that is the bottomline.

Yet...

"In the end, all business can be reduced to three words:
people, product, and profits." - Lee Iacocca

If we examine the words of a successful leader in Lee Iacocca...
Wealth is found in these three factors. People. Product. Profits.
Hence, it now boils down to how we squeeze the juice out of these.

PEOPLE. If to this date you are still skeptical on the value of
investing in talents THEN how could businesses thrive?

Understand that businesses make money from people. People
are producers, therefore, people are assets. They are there to
help you in your objectives.

"Coke was a little like the Wizard of Oz - so powerful was its
image that few foresaw that the company was vulnerable to
attack by new ideas." - John Sculley

Look, even for an established product like Coke, market share
could be eaten and has been eaten by alternative colas because
of those "new ideas."

Yes, Coke may still be a powerhouse but didn't some of those
who dared thrived?

And so... may I ask you where do we get those "ideas"?
From people. From the "fertile" minds of Real Talents.

Now, if you do not invest on talents for whatever reason you may
have, how will you get "new ideas"? How can you create wealth?

If you believe that you are creative yourself, don't you think
"two heads are better than one"? As we know, time is gold
so invest on talents... Leaders or Creative Thinkers.

PRODUCT. Without a product, what will you sell? Of course,
there's still service but it's still classified as a product. Well,
altho there may be many categories, I say there are just really
two basic product categories: quality, high-priced products and
the alternative, low-priced products.

For whatever category, a product is a product and it is there for
the "big bucks" if you know how to do it. For quality, high-priced
products, positioning is key; while for alternative, low-priced
products, economies of scale would be crucial.

Still, if you do not know what product to produce - look at a child
at play. Observe the child's behaviour, likes and dislikes. And
more importantly, look if the parents will give in. More often than
not, they would, right?

See, that's a fact in consumer behaviour, the heart is more
powerful than the mind. Thus, if you know how to love then
that emotion could bring you the tangibles in business as well.

"No great marketing decisions have either been made on
quantitative data." - John Sculley

So when you decide to produce something, try to touch the heart
to strengthen the 4 P's. Make your imagination work first, don't
just think of the cost yet. Consider yourself or a loved one as the
consumer; and look at possibilities before checking your pocket.

"The surest foundation of a manufacturing concern is Quality.
After that, and a long way, comes cost." - Andrew Carnegie

PROFITS. In the long run, a business can not afford to go by on
break-even, it really has to create wealth. For whatever the vision
of the organization is, it has to gain profits to continue operations.

Ok, we already know of optimizing profits and minimizing costs.
And I am sure as Leaders, you know how to do it, too; and there
are many ways on how to. Great customer service is a given.
It results in loyalty consequently contributing to profits. And so,
I would like to give particular attention to process improvement.

We know that if we make our manufacturing and work methods
more efficient, it would naturally save on time and capital; and
increase in productivity and even quality. Nevertheless, we don't
just cut here and cut there, a thorough study is definitely the
sensible thing to do.

Another area would be logistics, or the availability of products and
services anywhere, anytime... of course, with consideration to
costs and labor.

Process improvement and Logistics are just basics. So, master
the basics and we step on solid ground at least in an ideal
business environment. Here, flexibility is central.

"I am the world's worst salesman, therefore, I must make it
easy for people to buy." - Frank Woolworth

To have constant flow of water, we need a spring, a stream.
We need to gain customer loyalty and build on it to have greater
market share. For Frank Woolworth, customer loyalty came in the
form of items at very affordable prices; and in all sites he deemed
profitable.

Learn from plants. All we need is to plant a tomato and in time,
with its seeds and proper care, we can then grow a plantation of it.

See, once people, product and profits have been established -
we can then think of mergers, acquisitions, diversification, and
expansion to name a few. Again, these are just "basics."

The bigger you are, the more space you occupy.

With that in mind, we should keep our eyes and ears open for
opportunities to grow, to exploit, and to watch out for.

"I don't look to jump over 7-foot bars. I look around for 1-foot
bars that I can step over." - Warren Buffet

Realize that while Warren Buffet refers to the obvious, we should
also be careful of subtle landmines. And in opportunity seeking,
more than trends or crises, Intuition and Negotiating Skills are vital.

TO CLOSE A DEAL, be guided by the following:

What opportunity or need does my deal address?
What qualifies my prospect(s) or target buyer(s)?
Who and what are the gut values of the gatekeepers?
Who and how can I help those who helped me?
When on the negotiating table, ask critical and relevant questions to control the conversation. Consider the prospect's need at that time, budget, experience or knowledge, constraints, decision-making responsibility, information needed by the committee, and the next committee meeting among others. Write down all data gathered and listen for keys.
Use a third-party Endorsement.
Do follow-ups.

In negotiating, do not forget to apply the principles of relationship
building; and remember, clarity and timing are critical to closings.

When you master the art of negotiating, you will create more wealth
than you thought possible. Bet you have heard of Donald Trump.

"The trick is to make sure you don't be waiting for prosperity
to come." - Lee Iacocca

Survey the field. Weigh possibilities. And altho timing is crucial,
do not procrastinate. What you plant is what you will harvest.

Remember... "To Create Wealth...
Focus on People, Product and Profits while sharpening your Negotiating Skills."

To Be THAT LEADER... Cultivate Teamwork.

2009-02-20T14:26:00.003+08:00

Have you ever wondered why, in military trainings, do they include
"marching" and similar drills? After all, what's the use of
synchronized marching in "war", or even in "community service."

Teamwork. Team Works!

And as the saying goes, "two heads are better than one."

This could just either be between or within cubicles, or amongst
group mates resulting in greater productivity and job satisfaction.

Blogs ago, I posted an entry entitled "The Valued Team Builder..."
and there I discussed, well, team building. For this posting, the
fourth part of this series "To Be THAT LEADER...", we shall delve
into important issues concerning a team; and how we should be
addressing those issues.

But before proceeding, as a reminder, in order for a group of people
to attain their maximum potential as a team, the following conditions
must be met:

COMMON GOAL. To proceed without a reasonable objective is
obviously a waste of time, money, and effort. See, when people
has that "meeting of the minds", they agree to a common goal
then goes for it... and with persistence comes success.

"Cherish your visions and your dreams as they are the children
of your soul; the blue-prints of your ultimate achievement."
~ THE LAW OF SUCCESS

MUTUAL TRUST. Trust is born out of goodwill, out of sincerity,
out of concern. The key, then, would be Communication.
Through open and sincere discussions to sort out facts, feelings,
assumptions, and expectations -- "fear or worry" would soon be
replaced by Trust.

Have you ever thought of why some bird species fly in "V" formation?

This is like "as if" we know that "that" someone will catch us when
we fall. So, we have to positively build on that Trust. But first, we
should learn how to be and express sincerity.

Understand the heart before taking the hand.

TEAM SYSTEM. We are talking of people here, so, this means
each member must have a thorough understanding and acceptance
of the system of rewards, discipline, and work sharing. This system
must be clearly articulated and embraced by upper management.

Remember this is a t*e*a*m we are building and maintaining; and
therefore, we need people who are enthusiastic to be part of the
group to be capable of contributing positively.

"Instead of the question 'what must I do for my employer?'
substitute 'what can I do?'" - Andrew Carnegie

Now, after meeting these conditions and assuming a team already
exists... Leaders have to cultivate teamwork by addressing
perennial issues.

ROLES. This includes responsibilities, accountability, and
authority among others. In office settings, the effects and
significance of roles are not as distinctly seen and appreciated
compared to a "team in action" -- like a sports team or a ship
and it's crews.

Can you imagine if every crew member were engineers, then who
would be in-charge of navigation? Of food, maintenance, etc.?

Realize that staffing is vital but more so is the recognition of
abilities; hence, delegation, empowerment, and the degree of
autonomy would prove crucial in team productivity.

And since we are operating as a team, issues of control and
duties could still surface. It is, therefore, key for the group leader
to see to it that the work environment (and as perceived by team
members) is fair, reasonable, and friendly.

"Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when
your position falls, your ego goes with it." - Colin Powell

And this, as many may have overlooked, is done by building on
trust for cooperation.

DECISION-MAKING. Obviously, the one who could better solve
problems should be given weight. However, "insensitively" doing
so could diffuse team morale and enthusiasm; hence, Leaders
need to optimize the problem-solving and decision-making of
their groups to meet challenges and sustain that competitive
advantage.

"Everything should be made as simple as possible,
but not simpler." - Albert Einstein

As we know, there are several tools to arrive at the best decision,
now it's simply a matter of knowing how to choose the problem
solving approach to fit a given situation. Then again, understand
that the decision-making process and responsibilities should be
made clear from the start to progressively move forward.

TEAM BEHAVIOUR. Forming and maintaining a team takes
more than just organizational skills, it takes good "people skills."
And any undertaking that involves people, requires patience,
sensitivity, and care. (see 04.09.08 blog)

"Leadership is not manifested by coercion, even against the
resented. Greatness is not manifested by unlimited pragmatism
which places such high premium on the end justifying any
means and any measures." - Margaret Chase Smith

Since a team is normally made up with a diversity of people,
of different cultures and perspectives, there is sometimes a
problem in communication that can lead to misinterpretation.
Language barriers can be difficult to overcome unless you take
genuine interest to understand.

Stereotyping and Discrimination then could also pop up in a
team setting; but more than "communication" problems, this is
more of that "superiority" complex. And this could be because
of expertise, status or actually "cultural" in nature among others.

"You may, if you like, cut us into pieces. You may shatter us at
the canon's mouth. If you act contrary to our will, we shall not help
you and without our help, we know that you can not move one
step forward. It is likely that you will laugh at all this in the
intoxication of your power." - Mahatma Gandhi

Stereotyping and Discrimination are the poison to unity...
the venom that would slowly drag the team to oblivion.
Face 'em with a clear mind, an open heart, resolvent eyes,
empathic ears, gentle voice, honorable tongue, and firm action.
Stop the vicious disease... and you cut discord into pieces.

"There are no 'white' or 'colored' signs on the foxholes or
graveyards of battle." - JFK

These complications could then result into low morale, a shaky
loyalty, non-participation, low productivity, negativity, resistance,
and conflicts. Thus, occasional discipline may be needed for
the misconduct of team members on their job. This would be in
the form of an agreed-upon process that the team encourages to
handle before management becomes involved. (see 01.20.09 blog)

"Let us never negotiate out of fear, but
let us never fear to negotiate." - John F. Kennedy

On the other hand, what if Leaders and members become
"friends"? How would this affect the corporate culture, the
objectives?

Well, ok, we have heard of greater productivity and job satisfaction
in such alliances; however, there are caveats to it such as gradual
decrease in productivity, conflict of interest, biases, and questions
on accountability to name a few.

Yes, everybody is a friend; but everybody should be "professional"
enough to understand that "work is work" and that we have to
constantly watch that line to maintain respect and professionalism yet
with a friendly business environment towards the accomplishment of
objectives. In this case, Leaders should strike a balance between
closeness and distance without sacrificing friendship.

There is a time and place for everything.

Consider developing a good sense of humor. It would show to be
invaluable for relieving tension in the group or individual, or, for that
matter, in the Leader himself... as it is closely related to a sense of
proportion, a useful asset in anything involving people.

Accordingly, with a strong and empathic team leadership...
goals could be monitored and met; and consequently, rewards
would be in order to sustain that "edge" as shown in increased
productivity, loyalty, motivation, and better customer service.

Can you "win" alone?
Then why do you do business or, seek or continue employment?
Or even engage with people? Realize that "team" is spelled with
an "E", not with an "I."

"No man will make a great leader who wants to do it all himself,
or to get all the credit for doing it." - Andrew Carnegie

Remember...
To Cultivate Teamwork... foster Trust and Open communication.

To Be THAT LEADER... Invest On Talents.

2009-02-13T14:27:00.003+08:00

"The only irreplaceable capital an organization possesses is the
knowledge and ability of it's people. The productivity of that
capital depends on how effectively people share their
competence with those who can use it." - Andrew Carnegie

How can a leader recruit talents when s/he doesn't even know
how to spot them? How can a leader produce leaders when
s/he is "insecure"? How can a leader retain talents when s/he
doesn't even know what good investment really is?

To Be THAT LEADER...

One has to have the humility to accept that s/he needs help to achieve objectives;
S/he has to have the humility to accept that s/he needs a trustworthy hand to maintain excellence;
S/he has to have the humility to accept that s/he needs a creative mind to climb the next mountain;
S/he has to have the humility to accept that s/he needs a courageous lieutenant to weather the storms that may come, and that;
S/he has to have the humility to accept that one of those talents "could be" better than him/her... and that one day "could succeed" him/her... if not, should be recommended to another organization for one of the top, if not, the Top position of that company.

Does it sound "scary" now, then how could you be THAT LEADER?

"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments
of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of
challenge and controversy." - Martin Luther King, Jr.

HOW SHOULD YOU RECRUIT?

Consider how Jesus "recruited" His disciples...
Did He use any special techniques, tests, screening, etc. to do so?

NO.

Some would say... "It's because it's Jesus.." or "The circumstances
were different.." or "The needs were different..".. etc., etc.. Bunk!

Think about this...
Leadership IS about dealing with people, hence, if you just want
to "hire employees" ... then use the technical process.

But, if you want "REAL talent" -- then think out-of-the-box.
Don't follow the structural form but rely on your sixth sense
more than the conventional method.

See, Jesus wanted "Fishers Of Men."

But How Did He Spot Them?
If He were traditional in His thinking, He would have just gone to
the merchants to "fish." But He used creativity and intuition in
connecting "catching fishes with Fishing for Men."

So then, ask yourself...
How could one recognize a "goose that lays golden eggs"
when s/he doesn't even know what a goose is?

Now, this is the reason why "recruiters" don't really get REAL talents
(leader or creative thinker) and that is because they apply
technicalities more, instead of intuition. It's because they seek
those who fit the glass slippers, instead of patiently looking for those
who could make such or any kind of slippers. (see 11.17.08 blog)

Thus, when you hire, Hire according to the 3 "I's" (Jeffrey Fox):

INTEGRITY. First priority.
"A man who will steal for me will steal from me." - T. Roosevelt

A person who holds firmly to sovereign values outside himself grows
a wholeness of personality and moral strength of character.

I CAN DO IT attitude. Critical.
"Enthusiasm is the mainspring of the soul. Keep it wound up and
you will never be without power to get what you actually wanted."
~ Napoleon Hill

Enthusiasm knows no defeat, so it is imperative to understand the
stimuli which produces enthusiasm.

INTELLIGENCE. As a reminder, experience is simply exposure and
high learning ability could definitely offset such.

"Human salvation lies in the hands of the creatively maladjusted."
~ Martin Luther King, Jr.

Problem-solving and Innovation is about IQ while "experience"
as you now know, is just repetition. (see 10.22.08 blog)

HOW DO YOU PRODUCE LEADERS?

First, a Leader should be secure of himself/herself before s/he could
even act it out. And with courage and a futuristic mind, the rest
would follow.

The following are the Principles in Leadership Development (ACB):

Formulating a policy for leadership development at boardroom level.
Placing a priority on leadership potential in selection procedures.
Training leaders on properly-designed courses.
Planning careers so as to give appropriate experience.
Turning all line managers into leadership trainers "on the job."
Building a specialist resource in this area.
Evolving an organizational structure that favours the exercise of leadership.
Encouraging all leaders to "own" their own self-development.
Securing a climate or ethos which supports good leadership.
Obtaining a positive lead from the top.

"Every man who takes office in Washington either grows or swells,
and when I give a man office I watch him carefully to see whether
he is growing or swelling." - Woodrow Wilson

Here, note that "training programs" should also include "resilience
building and creative thinking" to be able to respond to challenges
... fuel innovation... and "get ahead" of change.

RETAINING TALENTS FOR ROI

As a Leader, you should recognize that people make things happen,
so... you can't cut people costs "unreasonably" just to save money.
People are assets that you make money on. Make sure they are
satisfied and motivated enough with where they are, so... pay
them a little more than the average industry rate. Give them a little
more of those benefits, specially that which involves their families
like vacation, schooling, etc..

And don't forget to invest on emotional currency... give trust,
autonomy, praise, and encouragement. Be a credit maker, not a
credit taker. Understand that their success is your success as well.

People are not dumb. They are not in business to lose money or
to make mistakes and enemies. All they need is a little wise
investment.

...

Thousands of people walked over the great calumet copper mine
without discovering it. Just one lone man got busy with a pick and
found it. You may be standing on a "calumet mine" right now
without knowing it. Dig down and see what is under the surface.

There is always room for a good man, otherwise, make room.

Take note...
Ideas come from fertile minds. Fertile minds from REAL talents.
Consequently, to invest on talents is to invest for your company's
survival and success. And Leaders who knows how to invest and
acts on it gets that "return on investment" as a Success Builder...
which opens up doors for more and better opportunities for his/her
own career or business.

"No man can rise to fame and fortune without carrying others along
with him. It simply can not be done." - THE LAW OF SUCCESS

Remember...
Investing On Talents is investing for the future.

To Be THAT LEADER... Build Relationships.

2009-02-06T11:16:00.007+08:00

People need people.

This is the rudimentary notion why we need to build relationships;
yet, I am sure that some are aware that not everybody would agree
to this belief, instead treat it as just a whim.

For those who agree:
People need people to survive, to succeed and to be happy.
For those who disagree:
Not all people need people because they already have what they
need to survive; and that they consider themselves successful
and be happy. We could then sense that these people are already
moneyed.

Still, even with money, here're some thoughts to ponder:

If you need food, wouldn't you need someone to at least get it for you? Unless you grow your own food and do all the dirty works, then you don't really need someone.
If you get sick, wouldn't you need someone to at least get medicine and care for you? Unless you grow your own herbal medicine and do all the dirty works, then you don't really need someone.
If you need to express yourself, many times, a pencil or a paintbrush is not enough. We need someone to talk to or at least to feel the presence of.

See, many rich people unknowingly suffer from relationship
imbalance as sincerity is questionable... and commitment only
depends on money.

So, think about Maslow's hierarchy of needs, from physiological
to self-actualization -- people need people.
Hence, building relationships is vital... though you don't need to
be a "social butterfly" just to survive, succeed, and be happy.

Thus here, we choose the kinds of relationships we need to be
fulfilled in our lives... to nurture them to remain fulfilled and to get
the support we hope for specially in times of need.

"The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining." - JFK

RELATIONSHIPS TO BUILD

SPOUSE, CHILDREN. A spouse can either help or hurt; but a supportive spouse and a happy family is your best ally specially when the chips are down. This is the most important of your relationships... the only one you can be "truly" intimate with... your most trusted ally... your buoyancy in the journey of life... your inspiration.

"No one can foretell the possibilities of achievement available
to the man whose wife stands at his back and urges him on...
it is your right and your duty to encourage your husband and
urge him on until he shall have found his place in the world."
- THE LAW OF SUCCESS

What do we do?
Put your family on the calendar. Schedule activities. Schedule
vacations. Leave work early if you are taking your children trick
or-treating. Buy flowers for your wife. Clip a loving note for your
husband. Have dates. Give them top priority. When your
spouse or children speak to you, give your full attention. Build
as many happy memories as possible. Quality time with your
family will reward you a thousandfold.

"A strong relationship with a spouse can be a tremendous
source of energy for a leader." - John C. Maxwell

WORK-RELATED. These include customers, subordinates, suppliers, employees, peers, and associates even networkers among others. Remember, your sustenance basically comes from this group, so treat everyone special; as your organization is like a machine, you need everyone oiled for it to work well.

What do we do?
Use good manners, all the time, with everyone. Be empathic.
Learn to listen well. Treat everyone's office and belongings as
if they were yours. Know everybody by their first name. Know
something about them. Be a credit maker, not a credit taker.
Send thank you notes. Give informal surprise bonuses for those
who does an extraordinarily good job on something. Organize
annual sports day and excursions. Keep in minda your people's
families, arrange an occasional "weekend for two" for a job well
done.

Understand that customers are the lifeblood of any company.
Be courteous and don't waste their time, or anyone else's time.
Instead use time positively, take one of them to lunch every
Friday. And don't forget to always try to say something nice,
it'd make people feel good and contribute at high levels.

10 Things To Say That Make People Feel Good (Jeffrey Fox):

"Please."
"Thank you."
"You remember Larry Kessler in our Accounts Payable department." (An introduction of someone to a superior.)
"That was a first-class job you did."
"I appreciate your effort."
"I hear nothing but good words about you."
"I am glad you are on the team."
"I need your help."
"You certainly earned and deserve this."
"Congratulations."

"If you don't believe in cooperation, look what happens
to a wagon that loses a wheel." - Napoleon Hill

FRIENDS. These include but not limited to people outside your company, like neighbors, schoolmates, and network connections among others. Here is one area where we could really choose whom to connect with. More than sharing interests or going to the same school, we should also muse on one's integrity... and values; as the famous maxim goes...

"Tell me who your friends are, and I'll tell you who you are."

What do we do?
Don't smoke just because everybody is smoking. Think healthy.
Help your friends be better people. Be positive. Avoid gossip.
Do sports. Share news and activities. Drinking is not really bad
provided it's just a shot or two, so drink to socialize not to get
drunk... and be sensitive to time, money, and energy.

"A wicked man puts up a bold front, but an upright man gives
thought to his ways." - Proverbs 21:29

Don't sacrifice virtue especially for fun sake. Now, when your friends
realize your worthiness and that you truly care for them, you will have
a stronger bond. And a strong connection is like having another hand
to help you get further.

Leadership requires energy -- mental and emotional. If we have our
relationships in good shape, it would not only help us a great deal in
stress management; but it would also reenergize us and help us
perform better towards our goals.

Take note, good relationships don't just come on a silver platter but
are built by reaching out and constantly working on it.

As a rule of thumb, apply the following Guidelines to have and
maintain a Good Relationship:

GOLDEN RULE. Bear in mind, "what we plant is what we harvest."
SINCERITY. Be truthful in your dealings. Never deceive in any way.
THINK WIN-WIN. Always find common ground to build on. Don't be selfish.
BE CONCERNED. People have feelings, if you really care, it'll go a long way.
COMMUNICATE. Anything can be fixed. Everything can be strengthened. Just talk.
COMMIT. Honor your word. Be there, rain or shine. And sacrifice, if needed.
GIVE TIME. This is the glue that sticks everything together. Give yourself.

Never say or act out anything on impulse... if you do, it'd prove to
be the biggest mistake you'd make in any of your relationships.
Regret always come after saying or doing something on impulse... so,
think and think hard before you "could destroy the good" that could
have been. Patience is key.

It takes a matured person to understand and accept responsibility...
and a thinking Leader to realize that relationships, specially personal,
are key to one's "enthusiasm"... the spring of achievement.

How much you VALUE your relationships... echoes in your life.

Consider what a loved one had to say some time ago...
"We can find many ways so long as we are together."

No one can climb the ladder of success without taking anyone along.

Remember...
Your success lies on how well you build & maintain your relationships.

To Be THAT LEADER...

2009-01-30T16:59:00.005+08:00

What does a leader need to do to be successful, admired, and
respected – worthy of emulation? To help his organization and
people thrive? To be at the top of his game? To be THAT Leader?

“He that gives good advise builds with one hand. He that gives
good counsel and example builds with both. But he that gives
good admonition and bad example, builds with one hand and
pulls down with another.” - Francis Bacon

We have seen and heard various opinions and polls of what’s
required to be such a Leader. But many were just touching on
traits more than anything else. Yes, Emotional Intelligence is
certainly the cornerstone in one’s leadership arsenal; however,
to move forward, we need to know the “How To’s.”

“Chance favours the prepared mind.” - Louis Pasteur

Remember, while “experience” is simply repetition brought about
by exposure; Leadership is just a matter of guts and opportunity.

Here now are the seven (7) fundamentals or things that you
“must” to do To Be THAT Leader…

1. Nurture Your Image.
2. Build Relationships.
3. Invest On Talents.
4. Cultivate Teamwork.
5. Create Wealth.
6. Steer The Company.
7. Shape The Future.

Some other aspects which you may be looking for may have been
incorporated into either one of the seven factors, so stay tuned;
As to better absorb the ACTIONs called for in developing these
components, we will break them down into pieces and serve them
in a series for you.

NURTURE YOUR IMAGE

People like winners. People wants to be associated with “giants.”
Thus, when you possess the qualities they envision in a leader, it
would be a lot easier for them to accept you as their superior; to
change what needs to be changed in their methods; and to
follow you as their guide.

Nurturing your image is like “self-promotion.” Nevertheless, doing
so is more than just looking sharp, it’s being sharp. This is projecting
a snappy and dignified yet approachable disposition.

It’s more than just wearing fine clothing; it’s keeping fit, clean, and
attractive. This means you got to exercise. Eat healthy. Have a
nice hair cut. Brush your teeth and get it fixed if necessary. Keep
your hair, hands and fingernails clean. Get an annual physical.
Take vitamins. Polish your shoes regularly. Avoid heavy cologne.
Have a good carriage. And don’t forget to “smile.”

It’s more than just having “executive” manners, it’s being sensitive
and considerate. Practice empathic listening. Be gentle yet firm.

It’s more than just owning a nice education, it’s about exhibiting
good decision-making and problem-solving skills. Join socio-civic
organizations. Serve your community. Assist during calamities
and help in the planning for crisis management.

It’s more than just experience, it’s having good work ethics and
creativity. Go the extra mile and trust your intuition. Keep in mind,
“imagination” is the mother of willpower, the key to achievement.

More so, nurturing your image would never be complete if you
can not grow your knowledge… and mind you, “leadership
knowledge” is more than just technical; it’s socio-economic,
cultural, environmental, linguistic, and updating your leadership
skills among others.

So, do research. Read. Study. Attend workshops. Practice.
Network. Be where the “action” is, if not in person, at least on
the web. Open your eyes and ears. Increase your awareness
around you and across the globe. Be of help.

And since we deal with people, harness your communication,
presentation, and public speaking skills. Grab every opportunity
to utilize it, if not, find ways. Teach in schools or even Sunday
schools. Coach. Train. Join clubs. And soon, you’ll be a “force”
to reckon with.

“When you can do the common things of life in an uncommon
way, you’ll command the attention of the world.”
- George Washington Carver

Finally, nurturing your image requires you to regularly monitor
yourself; to adjust what needs to be adjusted; and to make sure
you never stop at a standstill.

See, Leaders never stop learning instead they continuously seek
ways to improve themselves. They are never a sitting duck.

“I wasn't satisfied just to earn a good living.
I was looking to make a statement.” - Donald Trump

Remember…
Your Image determines your potential as THAT Leader.