Polite Gestures That Never Fail to Impress

1) We often get a "What?" or "Huh?" When you say "pardon me" or "excuse me" it seems kinder and less terse. 2) Bringing food to someone experiencing a stressful situation. You may not be able to solve their problems but you can show you care. 3) Wipe down counters in public restroom. You know how they are always wet so use your hand towel to do a quick sweep of the sinks before you leave. It shows the next person you care. 4) Help others place luggage in overhead bin or remove it after a flight. You cannot get any more helpful. 5) Say thank you for your service to every veteran you meet. They are the reason we get to talk about manners in our free society.

Eleanor Roosevelt on Manners

"What we need in the world is manners...I think that if, instead of preaching brotherly love, we preached good manners, we might get a little further. It sounds less righteos and more practical." I could not agree more. Thank you Mrs. Roosevelt.

Finishing School Short Course - Correspondence

This month we will give quick tips for a polished and professional image in any social or business situation. You don't need finishing school to learn these things - just a few reminders will get you far. Correspondence 1) Email Response - Try to respond within 24 hours. 2) Expressing Gratitude - When you receive a gift or a favor, send a handwrtten thank you note. It only needs to be a few sentences. Completely a a loss, use small stationery and write one sentence - I really appreciate.... Incude a warm greeting and a sign off. Mail the note as soon as you can (2 weeks at latest). 3) Business Thank You - After a job interview, send an immediate email of thanks and mention a note is in the mail. The note is more tactile, visual and emotional so it is worth the time. HR groups may interpret this as a demonstration of strong interpersonal skills. Also send a handwritten note if someone gives you a letter of recommendation. 4) Email Greetings and Sign Offs - I think it is important to have you name and phone and email on any email signature throughout the correspondence. I know it makes some email chains seem longer but it allows people to quickly find your phone number if they want to call you on the matter. Having to look you up is an inconvenience for them. Pay attention to signature boxes - it lets people know how you would like to be called, whether by full name or nickname. 5) Reply All - Click when the group needs addressing, but otherwise spare everyone else on the list. 6) Bcc on Emails - Use bcc only to maintain the privacy of addreses in group email,not as a sneaky one way mirror to conversation. If you want someone else to see what you wrote then forward it to them after it is sent.

Finishing School Short Course - Networking

This month we are doing a quick overview on a variety of topics to help you get through any social situation. Networking 1) Mingling - getting it right is hard to do if you don't have practice. To join a new conversation at an event, catch someone's eye, smile and enter the clique on a break. If you see someone who wants to participate in your group, pull her in when there's a lull. 2) Switching Groups - Instaed of saying "Excuse me I have to go to the bathroom", try "It's been so nice talking with you, please excuse me." There is nothing wrong about going to a new group at a party, it's why you are there - to socialize! 3) Connecting People - Introduce the parties andexplain what they have in common. Then say, I am going to leave you two to discuss. I will follow up with you both later."

Finishing School Short Course - Manners for Parties

This month we are giving you a quick finishing school short course on a variety of topics. Today's topic is manners for parties. 1) RSVP'ing - always do it and do it timely, whether yes or no. It's just polite to help your host plan. 2) Bringing Others - Whoever is on the invite is invited. If your baby is not on the invite, baby is not invited. If the invite says "Name and Family" bring everyone along. "Name and Guest" on the invite then your +1 is invited. 3) Special Food Needs - For really large parties, you should be prepared to be on your own. Don't mention your dietary needs to your host. For small dinner parties, let the host know as soon as possible and offer to bring a dish. 4) Arrival Time - for dinner party, show up 10 to 15 minutes after scheduled time. NEVER NEVER show up early because the host may not be ready. Any later than 15 minutes late, you should let the host know. 5) Saying Good-Bye - If there are fewer than a dozen people in attendance, that is your cue to move on. Say good-bye to the host and if there are more than that you can slip out and send a note that says thank you so much for a great party. 6) Leaving Promptly - do not be the last guest at a party unless you are a very close friend. The evening is over when these things happen - music is off, lights are on, server has been dismissed, and food is getting cleaned up. 7) Kicking Out Guests - If it is getting late, it is ok to let guests know you have an early morning and say you have to start cleaning. If you need to be more blunt, you can say thank you for staying until the end, I had such a good time with you, but I am going to have to turn in now.

Finishing School Short Course - Table Manners

This month we will give quick tips for a polished and professional image in any social or business situation. You don't need finishing school to learn these things - just a few reminders will get you far. Table Manners 1) Elbow placement - Elbows on table are ok if not eating. But don't use your elbow as a fulcrum for bringing food to your mouth. Wrists on the table are always ok. 2) Using the right fork for each course - Work from the outside in - salad to dessert fork. 3) Using the right bread plate - Reminder "BMW". Bread plate is on your left, Meal plate is in the middle, Water glass is on the right. 4) Digging In - Wait until everyone is served or the host gives the green light before you dig in. If its a large buffet style serving, you can eat when you get your food. If it is a preset event, wait until the hosts gives the cue. 5) Passing Food - First time around the tabel pass the food counterclockwise so the right hand is free for serving. Always pass both salt and pepper together even if asked for only one. 6) Reaching - If you can get the item near without a full arm extension, do it. Otherwise ask to have it passed. 7) Leaving the table - ask to excuse yourself (sans details - like I need to go to the bathroom - no one needs to know that). Leave your napkin to the left of your plate, not on your seat.

Owning It - Part 2

We have a few more tips to take on stressful situations with poise and grace. Thinking you can do it is half the battle - and I promise you can! 1) Dinner Party Explosion - Your dinner party for 4 turned into a dinner party for 8 at the last minute. What do you do? Adding pasta or rice to any protein that you may have planned to eat will add plenty of heft to make the meal work for the bigger group. Also dessert is easy enough - add a pint of ice cream and split up the planned cake in smaller portions. You can also ask for help. Letting someone bring a bigger salad or additional bottle of wine will ease your stress and make the party a breeze. 2) Applied for a job not quite qualified for - but you want it really badly! Everyone knows the climb the corporate ladder you need to skip a few rungs. Do not fret over holes in your resume. Employers will skip over qualified applicants for one that is really hungry for the job and shares a sense of enthusiasm. To make this believable you need to research the job and the company thoroughly and be prepared with specific business plans to show you will be ready on day one to learn and get things done. Still not getting the job? Find the company you want to work for and write a letter to the person you want to work for with your resume. Let them know you are eager even if they have no openings. Eagerness is hard to ignore so there is a good chance you will be the first call when something opens up.

Owning It - Part 1

Whether you are braving a party solo or chasing your dream job, attitude is half the battle. Thinking you have what it takes to get it done will go a long way to that actually happening. Here are some tips to handling those next stressful situations you face. 1 - Socializing solo - all dressed up and no one you know at the party. Do not stress about it. Shine! Walk up to a group of guest who look like they are having a good time and introduce yourself. Say you look like you were having a such a good time I would love to join you. People are generally nice. You will not get turned away. Ask how people know the host or hostess. That gives good starter to conversation and helps give you context to keep the conversation going. Also being up to date on current events is a great way to ensure no lulls through the night. Everyone likes to talk about their own city and what happening there. Keep it light but interesting with local sports or school activities or events coming to town. You will find you can have a great time not having known a soul at the start. 2 - Work Presentation - You planned for the power point deck edits and have an idea about what you are going to say but you went out last night and did not do all the final planning you wanted to. How do you come off professional and polished? Nervous people tend to talk too long and usually do not make sense. Audiences only retain so much so rambling has a negative effect. Plan the pithy parts that you need and keep it under your allotted time. Leave time for question and answer. Also allow for audience participation. The most important thing is to convey comfort not fear - smile, laugh, breathe - you will own the room.

Maneuvering Tough Interview Questions Well

There is always something about a person or resume that may spark tough questions. Here are some thoughts on how to answer these like a pro. 1) Your resume shows you have bounced from job to job or city to city. When interviewer asks why you move so much, a good answer may be that you like to seek out challenges and that all your past jobs have given you a variety of skills that you believe you can implement at this new job. Also emphasize that you want to continue to grow so they know you will be someone who sticks around! 2) You may be young and not had a lot of work experience. Sometimes you have to do a lot of grunt work at entry level positions. They may ask things like "How do you feel about making copies and getting coffee?" Your answer could be genuine - I hate that ...but I will do anything needed for a great job and a great boss and in time I hope I will prove myslef more valuable and give me more to do. That shows you have a positive attitude and want to grow. 3) The inevitable question if you are leaving a job is why are you leaving? One answer is that you like your job but believe this is a unique opportunity that you cannot pass up. That kind of answer does not disparage your current employer and shows you are a go-getter!

Sneaky Interview Tricks To Learn What You are Really Getting Into (Part II)

So there are some things you really want to know after an interview but how can I ask these questions without being crass? 1) You want to know "Will I ever get promoted or is this a dead end job?" Ask where are the people that had this job before me? You want to see whether they stayed at the company, left, or moved up. This answer says a lot about the potential of the position. 2) You want to know "Do people like it here?" Ask nothing! You can see it on people's faces and in their interactions. This is a good reason to come a little early to an interview to see what is going on. Ask to use the restroom and observe as you walk. Are people chatting, laughing, or crickets? Find former employees through your linkedin or facebook networks. They may be happy to give you insight as well.

Sneaky Interview Tricks To Learn What You are Really Getting Into (Part I)

So there are some questions in an interview you really want to know the answer to but you just don't know how to ask without sounding crass...Here are some thoughts: 1) You want to know "What is the salary?" Here is what you can ask - I'd love to understand this role better. How does a typical workday go, what the compensation like, and how many people would I be supervising? Because It's perfectly fine to ask about pay, but it's tough to pull off a pointed questions. Wrap it in a few other quearies, and they'll give you some ballpark figures. Also websites help to know a general range (www.salary.com) for example to see if the salary seems fair. 2) You want to know "Is the boss crazy? Ask How can I succeed here? You will be able to tease out boss' expectations. When they say we want you to have a work-life balance you know one thing but when they say we want you to dedicate yourself to work that says something else. Employee turnover is also an important signal of what its like to wortk there.

Interview Mistakes to Avoid (Part II)

You are about to interview for your dream job! Don't blow it! 1. Qualify Nothing. A lot of people have negative speech habits like kinda, actually, literally, well... (i.e. I am kinda thinking about moving to the area). These types of qualifiers serve as a hedge and make it seem like you are not confident about yourself or the position. Disclaimers are also a distraction for an interviewer. (i.e. Well, I was considering following up.) These statements undermine your credibility. Check your speech "tics" before an interview. Have friend listen to you and note the "tics" or record yourself on a conversation with a friend to find these speech patterns - because literally a speech tic could literally kill any chances you have of getting the job, literally. 2. Stay on Topic. Talk only about things that directly correlate with your ability to do the job; your knowledge, skills, and abilities. For legal reasons, interviewers are trained to stay away from trouble spots but interviewees often open up too much when interviewing. For example, you may casually mention a family problem or talk about your favorite sports team. You never know when a interviewer may be a die hard fan of a rival sports team. Don't ever let extraneous things impede your chances to get the job - when really your ability is all that matters. 3. Pare Down. Many people bring extraneous things to an interview. They really serve as a distraction to you and others. Consider leaving the cell phone in the car. Bring a small purse, if any, so that your hands are always free to shake hands without too much of a juggling act. Leave drinks, magazines, etc. at home too. Everything you bring in is subject to judgment by the interviewer so keep it to minimum and most importantly keep the focus on you and your ability to do a great job!

Interview Mistakes to Avoid (Part I)

You are applying for your dream job! Don't blow it! 1) Ladies (and men!) leave the stilettos at home. The first sign you will not be hired is if you are not dressed for the part. Either overdress with too much makeup, jewelry, or impractical shoes. This is the not the look that says I can put in a 12 hour day in these things. Show you are serious - that does not mean dowdy but it does mean you don't wear every fashion forward piece you own at once. You can also dress too down for an interview. Say you are applying for an entry level job in a mail room, don't come in running shoes and t-shirt to the interview. Wear sophisticated clothes - one step above what is to be expected on the job, not a whole ladder. 2) Don't air your grievances. One of the most important parts of the interview is when you explain the decisions you have made - why you have chosen prior jobs and why you are moving to another job now. These explanations speak volumes about your motivation and attitude. It is never flattering to use this time to air your frustrations about your current boss or bad situation. Find a positive way to frame the situation. You don't have to fake it and say it was all rosy, but say how much you learned from your experiences and how you have learned to deal with difficult situations in a positive way.

Thoughts on Good Leadership (Part III)

How do you get slackers to chip in? The initial reaction is to think what is their problem? But really we should ask is everything ok? Often people check out for a reason, home struggles, parent illness, etc. If someone is riding coattails, check on them and then assign them a task where others will be impacted so they invest in it too. No one wants to let a group down. Have them do a specific task you can monitor and followup with them, on both their task and any personal problems. They will be motivated to help out when you show you care. How do you encourage creative thinking? When you can, start a project with a brainstorming session where people can speak freely. There should be no such thing as a lousy idea - keep a log and keep building. Suggestions are seeds of thought that a group can work together to nurture the good seeds.

Thoughts on Good Leadership (Part II)

What is the best way to step up in a leadership position when there is no clear leader? When you are in a group where there is no clear leader, the easiest way to help steer the group is to say "I am happy to ensure that everything goes smoothly. I want everyone here to have what they need to make things happen. That tone says I am here to serve and give and that will allow you to naturally find yourself in a leadership position. An effective leader cares most about everyone doing their best to get the job done well, even if that means taking a supporting role. Once you're in command, how to gain trust of team members? Give them a lot of independence but check in on each person periodically, in other words, let people succeed and let them fail while providing training and guidance. When a new project needs to be launched put someone in charge of it. If the project succeeds let the person know what a great job they did and if it fails don't get mad, work with them to rectify it. From Simon Sinek, author of Leaders Eat Last.

Thoughts on Good Leadership (Part I)

What attribute does a leader need most? See yourself as teh protector of those in your group. A good boss will make sure that her employees have all the tools they need to do their job. Public acknowledgement of hard work will make people feel appreciated and safe. If people feel unsafe or that their leader is trying to take advantage of them they will concentrate on protecting themselves and as a result focus less on the task at hand. What is a common mistake leaders make? Thinking you have to have all the answers. No one knows everything a good leader is comfortable with that. Instead be grateful to be surrounded by people that can help you figure things out. Also when things are not done perfectly, good leaders don't get angry. They are not afraid to discuss how to adapt for the future. From Simon Sinek - Leaders Eat Last.

When Saying No Is Polite (and best for your sanity!)

Some of us cannot stop themselves from agreeing to every request for help. When we say yes all the time, we can tax ourselves beyond what we can bear. We may even end up resenting people we help. But, most importantly we may miss the "yes" opportunities that really matter like spending time with family over helping with one more bake sale for the community center. I am going to school full time and also working full time and helping out with another side business when I can. I am taxed to the max professionally and it certainly effects my relationships with my family and friends. I have said no to a lot of opportunities but most of the time I have gotten it wrong and said yes to way too many things I probably should have turned down for my own health and sanity and out of respect for my relationships with those that really matter. So what are things we can do to help ourselves say no? 1) Remove the guilt. Do not think you are not a good friend or a good person because you turn down someone. Let them know you care about them but that the timing for you is not convenient based on other obligations. Sometimes this one is the hardest for me to do and I usually cave here... 2) Rehearse saying no ahead of time so you won't cave in at the last minute or waffle about whether you will help or not. 3) If the request for help is spur of the moment, do not immediately respond. "I'll think about that and get back with you" is always appropriate. It also gives you time to process and check with family and on your other obligations to make sure you are availabe. 4) Time is also a friend in this circumstance - delaying an answer raises the possibility of no. But be mindful that this may leave others in a quandry to find replacement help if you have given the impression you may be available. 5) Don't blurt out the "no." Soften your voice so the no comes across as sincere and does not hurt the feelings of the other person. But if you do say yes, by all means do it. Let your yes be a yes and your no be a no - do not be in between. Those are the people everyone else will resent for being a waffler and someone you cannot count on. To "no" more times this week! Marty

Getting LinkedIn Right

If you are a professional, get signed up with LinkedIn. Recruiters are much more likely to give you an initial call ball if they can look you up and verify some of your work history and see what others may be saying about you. LinkedIn takes time to build so its important to start this process sooner rather than later. Here are a few tips to making it work for you: 1) Use a great photo. It should be less than five years old from the shoulders up, dressed professionally, and SMILING! Do not use a selfie or personal photo. It seems unprofessional and like you are more into socializing than business. 2) List every position. A profile that lists more than one job will get you looked at more closely and it will show your skill set. Who knows? Your prior work may have some interesting experience to a prospective employer. Plus LinkedIn can be a great supplement to your 1-2 page resume where you are somewhat constrained on space. 3) Upload Projects. Share your recent presentations on poignant topics and let your work do the advertising for you! 4) Seek "Endorsements". You can ask clients or bosses to highlight specific skills that you want noticed and importantly, that you would like to continue doing. For example, if you are a jack of all trades at your job but really want to focus on HR, then have your boss highlight how you helped successfully revise the employee handbook or dealt with co-worker conflict.

Real Reasons You Get Hired (Part II)

While your resume may be stellar, it is important to remember that your resume alone will not be why a company hires you. Remember there are a lot of smart, talented folks with similar experience. Make yourself stand out! So for your interviews consider the following: 1) You've Done Your Homework Do not walk into an interview without really knowing about the company. We all can "google" it and we should. When you walk and don't know most all publicly available info on a company, you are wasting the interviewers time and yours. Further, you seem to have hubris - like you deserve the job whether you know anything about it or not. I interviewed countless potential hires for one of my former companies where they said they were interested in working in California or New York - the company did not even have offices there!!! Get that stuff right or you will be summarily marked off the list. 2) Show You Can Think On Your Feet Some trash on the floor in the office as you walk through? Pick it up and throw it away. That shows you are conscientious and don't pass by problems. The drink spills over at the interview? Walk out and ask about towel and stay calm. Show you can handle any situation. 3) Ask for the Job If you liked your interview experience and you believe the company is a fit for you, ask for the job. Do not leave the interview and just hope for the best. Say thank you for the interview, I really want this job and would love the opportunity to work with you. That will go a long way to ensuring you are at the top of the list!

Real Reasons You Get Hired (Part I)

While your resume may be stellar, it is important to remember that your resume alone will not be why a company hires you. Remember there are a lot of smart, talented folks with similar experience. Make yourself stand out! So for your interviews consider the following: 1) Look Pulled Together About clothes: they matter. Dress for the part you aspire to be - not just the job you are interviewing for. Do not wear anything casual like miniskirts or tube tops. Get something that fits you well and that you are comfortable in. Also be prepared for anything on interview day. Raining outside, bring your umbrella. Hot, get there early so you can cool down and look calmed for your interview. Pulled together will say you want this job, no matter what. 2) Be Into Something Be a human!!! Your answer to every question should not be that you enjoy spending hours plugging away at a desk and just want to be a great worker. Yawn! I don't want to hang out with you 12 hours a day. I want to know people who have a passion for other things like golfing, gardening, stamp collecting - anything! Play sports? Mention that too. Group sports show you can work well with a team and deal well with pressure. Its these intangibles that often have the greatest appeal. 3) Don't talk Poorly About Current Employer Even if your current boss is horrible, do not throw her under the bus at your interview. Make it a positive. You have learned from current job and are ready to move on to a new opportunity. Leave it at that. You will come off as a positive worker and everyone wants to find positive folks to work with.

To Being Forever Young - Fashion and MakeUp Mistakes That Age Us!

I loved this article (By Health.com). It is a great reminder that it is really ok to be our age and give us tips to look great at any age!!

Networking 101 - Reward Your Power Contacts

The ability to network successfully can be one of the greatest assets in business. It allows some people to find incredible opportunities, while others just watch from the sidelines. Effective networking isn't a result of luck -- it requires hard work and persistence. What does it take to be a super networker? Reward your 'power' contacts. Keep a list of your top five to 10 networking partners and do something each week to add value to one person's life or business. You might send them a book or set up a lunch to introduce them to one of your other contacts. This habit can help you be proactive about staying in touch with your most powerful contacts. Just as with fitness or investing, the most successful people are the ones who choose to be consistent in their actions. (excerpt from Lewis Howes/Nov. 2012).

Networking 101 - Make Small Promises and Keep Them

The ability to network successfully can be one of the greatest assets in business. It allows some people to find incredible opportunities, while others just watch from the sidelines. Effective networking isn't a result of luck -- it requires hard work and persistence. What does it take to be a super networker? Make small promises and keep them. No matter how small a promise you make -- such as sending an email or returning a phone call -- delivering on that promise reflects on your character. By following through on your word, you start building a reputation for trustworthiness, which is exactly how every great networker wants to be perceived. (Excerpt from Lewis Howes, November 2012.)

Networking 101 - Keep A List

The ability to network successfully can be one of the greatest assets in business. It allows some people to find incredible opportunities, while others just watch from the sidelines. Effective networking isn't a result of luck -- it requires hard work and persistence. What does it take to be a super networker? We will share some tips to make networking work for you. Keep a list. What's your routine after attending a networking event or meal? If your answer is, "I go home," you're probably going to miss out on opportunities. Write down important topics that came up at the event. This habit can help prevent opportunities from falling through the cracks and give you something to reference in conversation the next time you meet. You can also develop a reputation as someone who's on top of things. (excerpt from Lewis Howes/Nov. 2012).

Networking 101 - Share a Memorable Fact

The ability to network successfully can be one of the greatest assets in business. It allows some people to find incredible opportunities, while others just watch from the sidelines. Effective networking isn't a result of luck -- it requires hard work and persistence. What does it take to be a super networker? This month we will discuss the top habits that will make you an effective networker. Share a memorable fact. When someone asks, "What do you do?" don't give a canned elevator speech about your company and career. Mention something personal that defines who you really are. Maybe you have a passion for playing an instrument or an obsession with collecting antiques. These are also "things you do," so make it a point to share them. Such personal details can help lighten the mood and get people talking. (excerpt from Lewis Howes/Nov. 2012)

Networking 101 - Learn Their Story

The ability to network successfully can be one of the greatest assets in business. It allows some people to find incredible opportunities, while others just watch from the sidelines. Effective networking isn't a result of luck -- it requires hard work and persistence. What does it take to be a super networker? This month we will discuss the top habits that will make you an effective networker. Learn their 'story' Ask successful entrepreneurs to tell you how they got where they are. Most people think of this as an exercise in rapport building, but hearing these stories can tell you a lot about a person's approach to business. The more you understand your networking partner's mentality, the better you can add and extract value from your relationship. For example, some entrepreneurs pride themselves on working 16-hour days and doing whatever it takes, while others focus on being strategic and waiting for the right opportunities to open up. These are clues that can not only allow you to see what people value, but also what working with them might be like. (excerpt from Lewis Howes/Nov. 2012)

Networking 101 - Add Value

The ability to network successfully can be one of the greatest assets in business. It allows some people to find incredible opportunities, while others just watch from the sidelines. Effective networking isn't a result of luck -- it requires hard work and persistence. What does it take to be a super networker? This month we will discuss the top habits that will make you an effective networker. Add value. One of the most powerful networking practices is to provide immediate value to a new connection. This means the moment you identify a way to help someone, take action. If, for instance, you know someone in your network who can help a new connection with a problem, drop what you're doing and introduce the two individuals. (excerpt from Lewis Howes, Nov. 2012)

Networking 101 - Insightful Questions

The ability to network successfully can be one of the greatest assets in business. It allows some people to find incredible opportunities, while others just watch from the sidelines. Effective networking isn't a result of luck -- it requires hard work and persistence. What does it take to be a super networker? This month we will discuss the top habits that will make you an effective networker. Ask insightful questions Before attending networking events, get the names of the people who are expected to attend and search social media sites like LinkedIn to figure out which topics they're probably most interested in. For people who are already in your network, don't assume you know everything they're up to. Find out what they're currently working on -- or perhaps struggling with. This attention to detail can go a long way at your next one-on-one lunch or dinner meeting. (excerpt from Lewis Howes, Nov. 2012)

How To Work Effectively with Workaholic Bosses

Many people have bosses that are permanently glued to their desk chairs. These bosses are there when you get to work and there when you leave. So how do you ever go home without looking like a slacker? This is quite a challenge. You defintely should not sneak out and hope to avoid an awkward encounter. You should also avoid "faking it" by throwing your over coat on your chair like you just stepped away but you have really left. That could waste colleague's time if they are looking for you. An employee's first priority should be conveying that you are working hard and that you are good at your job. This requires communicating clearly and frequently about your progress and results. If you deliver what the boss needs consistently, then hours should not be a problem. Even if you do not consistently match your boss's long hours every night, it is important to work late during crises or when a major project deadline is looming. Further, extra hours at night may gain more recognition than extra hours at dawn in an empty office. Also it is important to understand what assumptions you are making about what your boss wants. If he is a morning person, he may just work better in the morning hours and not really expect the same from you. Additionally, generational gaps in the work force (often between bosses and their subordinates) exist and "face time" is certainly a phenomena that baby boomers value as opposed to Gen Y'rs who can work on their phones from anywhere on the globe. Nonetheless, great boss/employee relationships are all about setting expectations and finding what works for you both while still getting all your work done.

The Value of Office Disrupters

I found this article in the Wall Street Journal. I think this insight gives us hopeful ways to find the positive aspects of those ever so annoying co-workers we all have (just make sure you know which one of these you may be too!) Wall Street Journal (February 14, 2014) [By Peggy Drexler] James liked his job in the admissions office of a large university. It was interesting, decently paid, useful work, he told me at the holiday gathering where we'd met. The only problem: His co-workers agitated his every last nerve. There was the social butterfly who spent her days flitting from desk to desk; the workaholic who obsessed over every last detail; the malcontent who subtly belittled anyone who spoke up in a meeting; the passive-aggressive assistant who would only answer calls if you were on her good side that week; and the boss, a hopeless narcissist who inevitably made himself the focus of every task. James came to dread going into the office. (For reasons of privacy, I've changed his name, as well as the names of others cited here.) You rarely get to pick your co-workers, which makes it nearly impossible to predict whether you'll be happy at any new job. While exploring life in the modern workplace, I've heard people grumble again and again not about their job but about their office mates. They were thrown in among the autocrats and the aristocrats; the passives, the aggressives and the passive aggressives; the suck-ups and the backstabbers. This may be why so many of us could relate to the NBC sitcom "The Office," with its universal message: The office would be a fine place to work, if it weren't for everyone else. But not all "disrupters"—the personality types who make it harder to get work done—harm office life or even productivity. Take narcissists. Sure, they're terrible listeners and apt to gobble up all the credit. But they also can be charming, engaging and charismatic. They can attract and inspire followers and be terrific mentors and leaders—which is why so many bosses are narcissists. In a 2006 study of more than 100 CEOs, researchers at Penn State found that executive narcissism can actually be motivational. The key to working for such a boss is learning to share praise, making your own contributions subtly known and ensuring that the narcissist doesn't rule your work life. Another classic disrupter is the passive aggressive type—the office scorekeeper. Greg, a graphic designer at a magazine and a family friend, told me that he habitually did better layouts for editors who took a personal interest in him. He'd frequently hand in shabby pages for colleagues he spotted going out for drinks who hadn't invited him along. "I did not ever want to be perceived as looking vulnerable or weak," he said. "Why should I do for other people when they don't do for me?" Scorekeepers don't play fair, which makes them tricky to get along with. But Pat Heim and Susan Murphy, authors of "In the Company of Women," argue that scorekeeping can have an upside, if used to encourage cooperation and motivate co-workers—a sort of "do for others what they do for you" philosophy. Then there is the office gossip. A 2012 study at the University of Amsterdam found that gossip makes up a whopping 90% of office conversation—but isn't as detrimental as you might think. The researchers concluded that such behind-the-back chatter may be essential for group survival. They found that gossip can make offices run more smoothly and improve productivity, helping to keep underperforming workers in line while fostering camaraderie. Consider Sascha—a friend's daughter who worked as an assistant to a busy orthopedist in a Manhattan hospital. Sascha had been enduring a painful divorce and was overwhelmed with personal obligations. Her co-workers were losing patience, but she figured they would have to understand. They didn't. Sascha began to overhear her name whispered in the hallways; she'd enter the break room for coffee, and chatter would halt. But instead of calling her co-workers out, she listened. She tried hard to get her work done despite her personal struggles. "I was wrong in assuming that my co-workers were my friends, or even that they shouldn't talk about me," she told me. "I needed someone to give me a kick in the ass, and, well, they did." Finally, there are the obsessive, workaholic types—disrupters who live for order. They may be annoyingly rule-bound, but they set high standards, communicate well and make great operators, mentors and team members. As a 2011 study from the Rouen Business School in France reported, workaholism often can be constructive, inspiring co-workers to be more original and dedicated. Adapting to personality types at work need not mean abandoning your principles. Even the most annoying co-workers often have something to teach. You also need to figure out if you yourself are a disrupter. James realized that he was the office enabler, the one who needed everyone's approval all the time. That revelation let him separate himself more from his job—making him not just a better worker but a better co-worker too. —Dr. Drexler is an assistant professor of psychology in psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medical College and the author of "Our Fathers, Ourselves."

Speech Goofs to Avoid Part III (Baby Talk)

Logically, women know that speaking in a baby voice does not say totally together career woman! Yet women whose voices are not naturally high pitched sometimes break into this tone when under pressure. Women could consciously or unconsciously be using the ammunition that worked for them as children. But this innocent-cute card that worked to get your way as an adolescant does not project authority as an adult. Yawning several times with your mouth wide open and with pursed lips helps stretch your throat and tongue and prevents sounds from escaping through your nose, thus eliminating nasally baby voice. If you have a naturally high pitched voice, humming in a low pitch can warm up your voice and get it into that lower register.

Speech Goofs to Avoid Part II (Fillers)

Subconsciously dotting sentences with like, ums, and ya-know is common. But, when we do this, people consciously or unconsciously question our intelligence (thank you 1980's valley girls...) Recording yourself on a phone conversation will let you know how badly you fall into this habit. Or you can ask a trusted friend who will be honest with you. The way to fix the problem, breathe! Instead of "like" or "um", use that opportunity to take a breath to collect your thoughts instead of filling the silence with a sound. The pause will keep others from interrupting you when they think you are filling time with useless words. Instead, they will hang on to the words you say and not lose interest because valuable words are all that will come out.

Speech goofs to avoid

We all want to sound professional and be respected in the workplace. But a few speech "tics" may stand in our way.  

1) Shut down the "up speak". You know this when you hear it. Everything that someone says rises up and sounds like they are asking a question.  That "up speak" conveys hesitation, insincerity and confusion. One way to check if you do this is to record yourself speaking. Note the words that rise and fall. Then work to create a steady voice pattern that avoids these fluctuations. You will instantly sound more confident and command attention. 

2) Slow Down and Go Deep - When you voice is relaxed, well-paced and expressive, you are easy to listen to and your message will be received in kind. Alternatively, when your voice is high pitched, fast, and constricted, you run the risk of being perceived that way in the workplace. Find your calm, lower pitched voice to help your ideas gain the credibility they deserve. 

Compliments That Count - Applaud TRUE Accomplishments

As we mentioned, compliments hopefully encourage behavior that we would like repeated. To that end, it's important NOT to commend your children or co-workers for easy tasks (for example - kids taking out the trash or coworker filing the documents). This kind of reflexive praise makes too big a deal about ordinary responsibilities that should be part of normal family life or normal work life. It also may have more damaging consequences. Children or co-workers may think you can't recognize how simple the job is, or suspect you believe he or she is fragile and needs a pat on the back for doing it. Save your appreciation for efforts that are merit-worthy. When praise is truly deserved, it becomes a powerful motivating force.

Compliments That Count - Be Sincere/Don't Manipulate

Don't be someone who gives compliments so frequently that they mean nothing to the recipient. Be judicious in giving compliments, and when you do, mean it. Others know when you are faking it. Also don't be a manipulator when you give compliments - i.e. giving a compliment to motivate something you value v. something actual valuable. For example, a co-worker will know when you are trying to manipulate future behavior by saying "It was so good to see you in the office early today." T hey know you would like them to show up earlier but is that the valuable thing? Likley not. Likely it is the work that would happen during this time. You can be more subtle and more effective in your compliment if you notice specific activity. "I noticed you were working hard on the ABC project early today. Thank you. How is that coming?" This alternative will lead people to be engaged and will also let them know you appreciate their hard work. It also makes bosses realize what is the valuable activity. Presence is not valuable - it is the hard work when present and that is what we want to encourage.

Compliments That Count - DETAILS, DETAILS, DETAILS

I submit that the main goal of praise is to reinforce this behavior - that is, encouraging people to continue to act in ways that lead to positive outcomes. As a boss or a person who has direct reports at work, it is often hard to know how to give good feedback during evaluations or throughout the year. If you are not clear about how and why someone you work with has done something good, it is more difficult for them to repeat that behavior. Therefore, it is important to avoid generalizations and be specific about their actions, not your feelings (for example - say you worked so hard on preparing that presentation or I could see how well you understand all the details of that problem). Zero in on areas your co-workers or direct reports can control - and improve - to reach their goals, including discipline and perseverance. This will encourage that same behavior to be repeated and likely improved upon! Additionally, if you report to someone at your job and have frequent evaluations, ask your boss to be specific. If they give you generalizations, like "way to go" ask them specifics - like what was the most important part of that project for you? Those questions let your boss know your are interested in doing a great job and continuing to do a good job in the future.

Compliments That Really Count - Give an "A" for trying

Whether as a parent, friend, or boss, it is important to give compliments that really count so that you motivate the right behavior. It may seem counterintuitive, but commending what comes naturally - whether it's athletic talent, a musical gift or brainpower - often backfires. A recent Columbia University study found that kids who were praised for their intelligence became overly focused on performing well. After incorrectly answering some IQ test questions, kids showed less persistence and performed poorly even on easier ones that followed. Once you praise a child for intelligence, they can become invested in success. They fear difficulty because they begin to equate failure with stupidity. Recognizing and rewarding effort, however, has the opposite effect, motivig kids to work harder, aim higher and savor their achievements. I think the same motivations likely work on those that work with us - people will work harder when we recognize the effort - not just the aptitude. When we recognize effort, we show that value hard work in those we work with and it is likely that these kinds of compliments will continue to get harder work as a result!

Customer service - the right first question?

I have had some recent shopping experiences where some of the customer service folks have it so right and others where they have it so wrong. To brag - men's shops tend to get it right. I go into men's clothing stores with my boyfriend and they know when to be attentive and when to let you look. I wonder if men are generally more straight forward than women and so when someone says they don't need help they accept that more readily?  Also men's stores tend to ask if you are "looking for something specific" whereas women's stores tend to ask "can I help you". The latter question is more open ended and I submit the men's stores generally get a better answer. If I am looking for something specific I will say - yes where are the casual pants? They show me and I get them and leave.  And if I say no then they know I am a browser and tend to leave me to look. 

The challenge is always to know whether to "help" aggressively or more subtlety suggest items. I think those in customer service need to pay attention to the cues given. I often say I don't need help and when I say it I mean it. And when I have a "hovering" sales associate it is a sure fire way to make me leave. When that happens, I feel like they did not listen to me when I said I did not need help and worse they hover because they think I am going to take something. If stores think people may take things they need more subtle ways to discover that than huddling around each customer.  Also I submit the better question is whether I am looking for something specific - then they circumvent any question about what I am doing - browser, intentional shopper or otherwise and can immediately give me the best customer service by attending to my specific needs. 

Talk Starters

Many times we don't know how to break into conversations at events or get to know new co-workers. There is always the awkward first impressions and silent pauses that make us uncomfortable. Further, sometimes we are a the "new guy" and we want to make sure we are perceived as personable. One of the easiest ways to get to know someone is to start with a sincere compliment. If you start with that, you are sure to make a positive first impression. Importantly, if you listen to responses to compliments you can keep the conversation going. For example: Compliment: That pie you made is great. Answer: Thank you. It was my grandmother's recipe. Response: Oh fantastic. Did she teach you to cook? Answer...) Inevitably, the conversation goes on. If you are the new person to a workplace, you can bring a prop that gets people talking. Maybe you wear a quirky scarf or handbag. You come to the event with something that will pique interest and make conversations easier for you all night.

Great Tips for Bosses to Deal With Workplace Romances

Romance Can Disrupt a Small Firm Bosses need to make sure lovebirds stay professional By Barbara Haislip February 3, 2014 An office romance at a small firm can be a very tricky affair. A lot of the safety valves that big companies have for handling the situation won't work. A boss can't transfer somebody to a different department or have someone report to a different manager to make sure the romance doesn't interfere with work. If a romance sours, not only can it poison the mood of the whole office, there's also the risk of having a sexual-harassment suit filed against the company—something few small firms can afford. Meanwhile, if one lover decides to leave because of the situation, it can seriously disrupt a very small business where every employee counts. Two's Company The most important thing a business owner can do is to start talking to the people involved as soon as he or she becomes aware of the situation, says Arlene Vernon, founder of HRx Inc., a human-resources consulting company in Eden Prairie, Minn. "You don't need to approach this with threats or anger. Just take a respectful, business-focused approach," she says. In a conversation, the lovers should spell out "they are not going to work differently, communicate differently or treat people differently as a result of their relationship." Clemens and Jessica Lengenfelder at the dance studio where they met West Hartford Fred Astaire Dance Studio Ben Sayers, chief executive and owner of VoIP Supply LLC, a 30-employee e-commerce company in Buffalo, N.Y., says he's had lots of couples in the workplace—"at one point, exactly one-third of the whole workforce was married to or dating a co-worker." In most cases, he says, a simple conversation was all it took to keep the situation on track. In the chat, he would make clear that the relationship was fine as long as "it had no negative performance effect, it was not a distraction to other employees and that they kept their personal disagreements at home and not center stage at work." That approach has served Jessica Lengenfelder well, too. She met her husband, Clemens, 15 years ago when they were both instructors at the West Hartford Fred Astaire Dance Studio franchise in West Hartford, Conn., and since she took over the business in May 2001, two dozen employees have paired off and dated—in a couple of cases even married. Dance instructors often become dance partners, so it's not surprising many fall in love, she says. When Ms. Lengenfelder finds out a couple is dating, she has a joint conversation with them about keeping up a level of professionalism—"No goo-goo eyes at each other"—and when they break up she talks to them separately, telling them to leave their problems on the mat outdoors. Beyond that, the studio has a general written policy that calls for a level of professionalism emulating Fred Astaire. "Our business is a happy, friendly business," she says. "I remind them of what Fred would do." People Will Talk Sometimes things don't go quite so gracefully. Audrey Darrow, president of Earth Source Organics, a maker of nutritional chocolate bars in Vista, Calif., had two employees on the manufacturing line start eyeing each other in 2011. The woman was flirting, Ms. Darrow says, and the man responded, which made their work slow down. Other employees got angry with the woman and told the man she was tricking him. Then the couple got angry with the other staffers. After assigning the couple to jobs in different spots—where they didn't have time to talk—bosses had a one-on-one meeting with each. Then they addressed the topic of people lowering productivity in meetings with the entire staff (albeit without mentioning names). Now, Ms. Darrow says, "they are doing great and we've had no more issues with employees so far." Some pros advise bosses to go further than chats and set up firm policies. Joel Greenwald, managing partner of Greenwald Doherty LLP, a New York-based labor and employment-law firm, advises having rules requiring couples to report relationships to the owner. He also advises owners to protect themselves by having both parties acknowledge the relationship is consensual and that they understand the company policy on harassment. One thing to be sure about, says Roberta Matuson, president of Matuson Consulting, based in Northampton, Mass.: "Don't put policies in place that you are unwilling to enforce. If you have a 'no dating co-workers' policy, then you must remind co-workers who decide to date what the policy says and ask them which person will be resigning from his or her job." She also suggests a simple solution to head off tricky situations. "Encourage your workers to leave work on time so they can have a life outside of work," she says. "By doing so, they may be less tempted to ask out the only other person they happen to know."

Consider Etiquette Differences While Abroad

When we travel abroad for pleasure or business, we must understand that the cultures and etiquette norms are very different than the U.S. Etiquette we consider proper in the United States may cause you to lose the deal or offend others when travelling abroad. For example, if you are thinking of giving a clock as a gift in Hong Kong, you better not as clocks are associated with death or funerals! Are you going to Japan? If you receive a gift in Japan, don't open it upon receiving it, that would be impolite. However, in Austria, do open your gift immediately; otherwise you will be seen as being rude. What might be perfectly acceptable in one country, might be totally taboo in another. In Japan it's not only acceptable to slurp the noodles in your soup, but it's considered good table manners to do so. On the other hand, if you're enjoying a nice bowl of soup in England, slurping is considered rude and would seem rather uncouth! There are some good sites to consider before travelling. Some of these tips come from Vayama.com. Another great book I would recommend is Kiss, Bow of Shake Hands? by Terri Morrison. You can find it at . This book an invaluable to ensuring you do not miss the particular nuances of the country you are visiting. The other important point to remember is the U.S. way is not the "right" way when you are abraod. There is no moral obligation to slurp or not slurp. I submit when in Rome, do as the Romans. Do not think the U.S. has a superior way of doing things. You will miss the beauty of experiencing differet cultures and celebrating our world's variety.

Why Polite People Prosper

Being polite, all the time, will make it easier to achieve your goals in life. People are more inclined to want to help someone they like and respect and who likewise shows them the same respect. "Politeness" cannot be something you turn on and off in the right situations. For example, you cannot be kind to your boss yet disrespectful to direct reports. You will only come across and insincere and be disrespected by others for this opportunistic behavior. When you are polite all the time, you will likely be more popular than those who are not polite. In this world of social networking, being popular and well liked can make a big difference in the opportunities that are presented to you. Further, your reputation is the only thing that precedes you and will be remembered when you leave. A reputation as a considerate person can only serve you well. So proactice politeness. In stores, thank the stock person. At work, ask your secretary if you can get lunch for her one day. At home, make a special breakfast for the family. Once well practiced, politeness will easily follow you everywhere.

Why Good Table Manners Show Respect for Others

Simply, etiquette means treating others the same way you want to be treated. But learning etiquette rules can mean much more than this. Proper etiquette helps us identify with important emotions like empathy, sympathy, and compassion. When we are polite to others, we acknowledge that they are important and have the same feelings as we do. With this in mind, we will discuss the reasons why certain conventions of etiquette really help us identify with these emotions. Table Manners Being polite at the table is important no matter where you are. Poor table manners tell others you don't care about their feelings. Further, they can embarrass friends and family. When you share meals with someone you want to impress, whether girlfriend, boyfriend, employer, or client, these are a few tips to get you through: 1) Chew with your mouth closed in a closed and quiet way. Smacking of others is an appetite suppressant for those that have to hear it. 2) If you need to blow your nose or burp, get up from the table to do it. 3) Wait until everyone at the table is seated and has their plates before you start eating your meal. In past centures, the most important person was served first. By waiting, you are showing the rest of the group you respect them as equals. 4) Ask for food to be passed, do not reach across others to grab it. Reaching across shows you do not value the space of others and that your needs are more important than theirs. Further, you reach over their food and can get hair or dirt in their food.

Hold That Door!

Simply, etiquette means treating others the same way you want to be treated. But learning etiquette rules can mean much more than this. Proper etiquette helps us identify with important emotions like empathy, sympathy, and compassion. When we are polite to others, we acknowledge that they are important and have the same feelings as we do. With this in mind, we will discuss the reasons why certain conventions of etiquette really help us identify with these emotions. Holding the Door When you are going through a door, especially in a public place, look behind you to see if someone is about to go through the door immediately after you. If so, once you are through the door, step aside and hold the door open for the person behind you. It does not matter if it is a male or a female. It is just a nice thing to do for anyone. If you are entering a door then you'll hold it and let those behind you go through first. The kindness shown takes only a few second of time and makes others feel good. Holding doors for others reminds us that it's important to care for one another. It's an acknowledgement that we are all in this together.

Looking People in the Eye

Simply, etiquette means treating others the same way you want to be treated. But learning etiquette rules can mean much more than this. Proper etiquette helps us identify with important emotions like empathy, sympathy, and compassion. When we are polite to others, we acknowledge that they are important and have the same feelings as we do. With this in mind, we will discuss the reasons why certain conventions of etiquette really help us identify with these emotions. Looking People In The Eye Eyes are known as the window to the soul. Emotions are often easy to read if you can see someone's eyes. When someone speaks to you it is a matter of respect to answer and look at her in the eye. If you shift your gaze to the ground or the side, you give the impression you are deceptive or can't be trusted. While this perception may not be fair, you can practice looking people in the eye. When you go to the grocery store and are checking out with a clerk, look him in the eye when you give your credit card or cash. Consciously look friends in the eye when you are speaking with them. You can learn this habit and it will make you seem more sincere when you meet new people.

Why We Don't Interrupt

Simply, etiquette means treating others the same way you want to be treated. But learning etiquette rules can mean much more than this. Proper etiquette helps us identify with important emotions like empathy, sympathy, and compassion. When we are polite to others, we acknowledge that they are important and have the same feelings as we do. With this in mind, we will discuss the reasons why certain conventions of etiquette really help us identify with these emotions. DON'T INTERRUPT hen you interrupt someone, you are implying that you are more important than the other person. You also suggest your thoughts are more valuable than others. Waiting until the other person has finished talking let's him know you respect and value him. If something is so urgent that you must interject (There is an emergency!), then touch the person you wish to speak with and say excuse me, wait for acknowledgement, and then proceed. When you do this, you ask permission to break into the conversation and still honor the person speaking.

Using Emotional Intelligence

You must use emotional intelligence to get the best out of people. To get someone's best, you must motivate them. Motivation comes in many forms, such as recognition, responsibility and achievement. Knowing how to motivate effectively requires you to use emotional intelligence, an ability to manage yourself and relationships through self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and social skill. Through self-awareness, you can accurately evaluate your own strengths and limitations and understand your own emotions. Effective self-management allows you the ability to manage yourself and your responsibilities so that you are trusted by others. Social awareness enables you to understand others perspectives and meet the needs of an organization’s constituents. Finally, social skill empowers you to influence and develop others in alignment with the vision of the organization. You can use emotional intelligence to determine which leadership styles will work to achieve an organization’s goals and best motivate your employees. One example - Your report at work does great work, never complains, and is always reliable. Using emotional intelligence, a manager may know what motivates this worker - is it desire for more money, desire for public recognition, is it a mere thank you? Knowing those that work with you and finding the right motivation will continue to keep your organization progressing!

Power of Please and Thank You

Simply, etiquette means treating others the same way you want to be treated. But learning etiquette rules can mean much more than this. Proper etiquette helps us identify with important emotions like empathy, sympathy, and compassion. When we are polite to others, we acknowledge that they are important and have the same feelings as we do. With this in mind, we will discuss the reasons why certain conventions of etiquette really help us identify with these emotions. PLEASE AND THANK YOU When you say "please", you acknowledge you are asking someone for something that you are not necessarily entitled to. It signals respcet and conveys you idnefity that person as at least an equal, rather than implying that he is a servant and required to do what you ask. In the same way, once the request is honored and fulfilled, saying thank you or writing a thank you note implies gratitude for the act. "Thank you" is derived from the word "think." You are basically saying "I will remember what you have done". So it important that adults show children these conventions. They will go a long way to help remove from us any sense of entitlement that rarely serves anyone well.

Team Building (continued)

A good leader will not inject himself and his specific desires into every team he creates. By the time of most team’s first assembly, often a leader already has made numerous decisions about the work the team will conduct, the resources it will have at its disposal, and the people who will comprise the team. A good leader will give his guidance at the outset of the team building process but will allow the team its own gestation period to do its goal setting and determination about the work and resources it needs. Knowing when to step in and assist a team at the right times will be in the skillset of a great leader. When an organization has well-formed teams there is individual team member satisfaction and growth, as well as collective goal achievement. Successful teams lead to successful leaders when they can accomplish the strategy and vision they have outlined for an organization through those teams.

Team Building (continued)

When working in teams, a good leader must allow for team processing of the problem to be resolved. Processes allow a team time for decision making, communication, participation, and interpersonal team management. Time for a team to bond and establish its structure and norms will allow for effective team processing. When the inputs of a team are well planned and the team has time for all necessary processes, a cohesive, functional team results. If this time is not allowed, people will feel isolated and unappreciated and the team will have no cohesion.

Team Building at Work

Everyone is part of a team, whether at work, at home, or in community. Teams can help tackle difficult problems so that they seem easy with each member’s input. Or, teams can take a simple task and turn it into an overthought nightmare of redundancies and bureaucracy. This is why team building and team member positioning is such a critical portion of successful leadership. Great leaders must take care when putting together a team. Before the first team member is assembled, a leader must consider the team inputs such as team size, team members, team goals, available resources, and team leadership. One particularly important input consideration is the team members. Team members should be those who have the skills to achieve the goals set before them and should include both leaders and followers who can work together in a team setting. Further, a leader should design team tasks that are complex and interdependent so that each team member’s input is needed to complete the task.

Create a Successful Business in 2014 - Structure

Any successful organization requires a clearly articulated vision, strategy, and structure. An organization without these is like a house with no walls - purposeless. A leader has the unique position to determine the vision and implement the strategies and structures so that organizations are primed for optimal performance. A vision is “a description of a desired end state.” Leaders should have a vision that is tangible and desirable such that it has concrete attributes that appeal to employees and other stakeholders. A vision should also be feasible, flexible, focused, and simple. That is, the vision is attainable and easy to grasp. If the vision follows these requirements, it will be able to motivate an organization toward the desired result. To implement the vision, leaders then put in place the strategy. To do so successfully, a leader must understand the organization and its needs. Further, leaders must enlist a team of people that can help implement the strategy. Effective leaders of organizations will pay attention to staffing as employees are the mechanism through which any vision will be achieved. Leaders also implement an organization’s structures, the formal systems of task and authority relations that control what people do and how they do it within an organization. Structures provide the framework for execution and must be aligned with the organization’s vision and strategy. Leaders fail when they are unable to fully execute their vision. Leadership does not end at creating the vision and strategy for an organization. Leaders will be judged on their execution through the structures they put in place.

Create a Successful Business in 2014 - Strategy

Any successful organization requires a clearly articulated vision, strategy, and structure. An organization without these is like a house with no walls - purposeless. A leader has the unique position to determine the vision and implement the strategies and structures so that organizations are primed for optimal performance. A vision is “a description of a desired end state.” Leaders should have a vision that is tangible and desirable such that it has concrete attributes that appeal to employees and other stakeholders. A vision should also be feasible, flexible, focused, and simple. That is, the vision is attainable and easy to grasp. If the vision follows these requirements, it will be able to motivate an organization toward the desired result. To implement the vision, leaders then put in place the strategy. To do so successfully, a leader must understand the organization and its needs. Further, leaders must enlist a team of people that can help implement the strategy. Effective leaders of organizations will pay attention to staffing as employees are the mechanism through which any vision will be achieved.

Create a Successful Business in 2014 - Vision

Any successful organization requires a clearly articulated vision, strategy, and structure. An organization without these is like a house with no walls - purposeless. A leader has the unique position to determine the vision and implement the strategies and structures so that organizations are primed for optimal performance. A vision is “a description of a desired end state.” Leaders should have a vision that is tangible and desirable such that it has concrete attributes that appeal to employees and other stakeholders. A vision should also be feasible, flexible, focused, and simple. That is, the vision is attainable and easy to grasp. If the vision follows these requirements, it will be able to motivate an organization toward the desired result.

Becoming a Great Leader - The Foundation (continued)

A final piece of a great leader’s foundation is their experience. Great leaders will take the hard tasks on with vigor. When a leader masters the hard tasks, he alone is uniquely qualified to take on those harder challenges that inevitably occur in every organization. Follow through on hard tasks allows a leader to gain practical experience in an organization, to learn from their mistakes and to know how to build successes in the future. By taking on these difficult tasks, the leader is respected for his courage and easily followed once he has found success. I encourage you all to look for the hard projects in 2014. Cutting your teeth on those projects will be a great step stone toward being a great leader.

Becoming a Great Leader - The Foundation (continued)

One must have the mentorship and encouragement to become a great leader. Mentors help steer young leaders in their formative years. Good mentors help guide leaders when they have missed the mark. They can give leaders the feedback needed when the road to leadership is tenuous. Finally, mentorship provides encouragement needed for success. Negative feedback can often stymie someone in their path toward becoming a great leader. Positive encouragement can help young leaders find the purpose and will to continue on their leadership path. I encourage you all to be mentors to others and find mentors for yourself. Look for people you admire - not because of how much money they have, but because of how they are respected in the workplace. Respect by all is a sure sign you have latched on to a good mentor.

Becoming a Great Leader - The Foundation

The foundation of a strong leader begins with a leader’s core values. A great leader must at all times and all costs do what is right. The leader must have a strong sense of right. That strong sense will trickle down through people and actions of organizations, and, as such, must be at the core of a strong leader. A great leader must not be motivated by personal gain at the expense of organizational good. Modesty in a leader will allow the leader to be solely concerned with the organization’s success rather than personal fortune or accolades. This means a leader will be humble and “channel ambition into the company, not the self.” You have seen it play out time and again - companies have fallen because those at the top did not do what is right - think Madoff, Enron, etc. You have also seen them fail due to the hubris of those at the top that thought they were always right and had no one around them to put them in check. It is supremely important that the compass of those at the helm of any organization points to true north ethically. It cannot be the leader's perception of right - it must be the real right. Everyone knows what this is - you know when some project or idea smacks of questionable ethics. Never let yourself or leaders go down that slippery path of needing to justify what you do. You will never have to justify doing what is right. It will speak for itself.