Polite meetings waste time

  Yesterday I interviewed Robert Herbold, former Chief Operating Officer of Microsoft and author of “What’s Holding You Back.” Bob’s quiet, gentlemanly tone shifted toward disdain when the topic moved to wasting time in poorly… Continue reading →

Full Steam Ahead!

“In our work with organizations worldwide, we have observed that the biggest impediment to managers becoming great leaders is the lack of a clear vision…,” Ken Blanchard and Jesse Stoner. A confession: I… Continue reading →

Too many answers

The organization I lead is considering a new initiative. In the hallway, I was asked if we had plans to provide child care. We didn’t. I also assumed the person asking wanted child… Continue reading →

How to define an opportunity?

Many people have more to do than they can get done. Translation, you’re spread so thin you can’t be great at anything. Your best is average when you’re over committed. Therefore, opportunities aren’t simply more… Continue reading →

Stop asking “why”

I think you ask “why” too much and “what” too little. Asking “why” is a backward-facing activity that examines the past searching for excuses and someone to blame.  Asking “why” may be useful… Continue reading →

The most powerful thing

Ken Blanchard told me he’s having the 51st anniversary of his 21st birthday tomorrow (May 6, 2011). Happy Birthday Ken! Ask him if he plans to retire and he’ll joyfully scoff, “I’m not… Continue reading →