| | Blog: The Stone Group Soup
Welcome to The Stone Group Soup - The Blog nation of The Stone Group. Feel free to contact me with any of your own ideas and discussion points regarding ideas and strategies for Building A Better Workforce, increasing employee engagement, and building leverage for small business leaders.
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The Great Debate: What makes a great Coach?
We are down to the final days of the second round of the NBA (National Basketball Association) Playoffs. The Los Angeles Lakers are leading their series with the Utah Jazz 3 games to 2. The Lakers are led by controversial coach Phil Jackson.
Phil Jackson has won several NBA Championships (9) in his career. No coach has ever won more championships than he has. Yet, whenever people discuss Phil Jackson there is always a debate over how good of a coach he really is. The doubters always claim that he could not have won the first 6 championships without Michael Jordan, arguably the best basketball player ever; or the next three without Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal. I would have to admit; I think it is a discussion worth having.
However, not today.
You see there is a follow up argument that I think is more telling. Many supporters of Phil Jackson think he is a great coach. They argue that he could make any team better. Others say that without top players, he would not be as effective. They claim he needs top players in order to win.
Those of you that know me might be able to guess my opinion. Not only do I agree with the latter statement, I risk my reputation on it, and I have some evidence to back it up. I agree that Phil Jackson is a great coach. However, I do not believe that he could take a team with mediocre or poor talent to greater heights.
He is a great coach of great players. When he is coaching players with less talent, he is less of a good coach.
Why do you suppose that is?
Before I tell you why that is, I want you to consider how this relates to the Transition2Wealth philosophy.
Phil Jackson is a great coach of great players because he is inspired and energized by coaching top players. For Phil Jackson, he is meant to serve top players. When he is coaching mediocre talent he gets frustrated, tired, and loses his energy and enthusiasm for coaching. That is why he "retired" from coaching coincidentally right after Michael Jordan retired. When he was presented the opportunity to coach Kobe and Shaq, suddenly the fire was back.
You've heard it before from me It's not skill. Phil Jackson's coaching skills do not diminish when he is faced with the task of coaching mediocre talent, but his potential for success is greatly affected.
Now lets look at the other side of the equation, and another great coach. Bill Parcells is another Hall of Fame coach and his success is also dependent on the type of player/team he is dealt. Unlike Phil Jackson, Bill Parcells is energized and enthusiastic when he takes over a seemingly poor performing, yet talented team.
Every team Parcells has coached went from mediocrity to the playoffs within just a couple of years. Even the Cowboys, a team he left before they flourished, flourished with the talent he produced. One might argue that Bill loves to turn players into superstars, yet has little patience for them once they get there.
You see, it's not what we do that makes us happy it's what we do, coupled with who we serve, in alignment with our core values. Your potential, and the potential of your employees is more affected by the people they serve, than it will be by what they do. That is the key to engagement.
So how can you bring that into your organization? Decide right now Who it is you serve that energizes you and inspires you, and serve them in alignment to your core values from now on. Then when you speak to your employees, make sure that they are inspired and energized by the same clientele that you are targeting.
If they are in it for any other reason, it is likely that their potential will diminish with every passing day.
It's just too bad that Bill Parcells and Phil Jackson don't coach the same sport. They would make a great team.
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(Posted 5/19/2008 by admin) |
Making Good Decisions: What we "know to be true" vs. the truth.
Wisdom is one of my favorite words and one of the things I value most. (Those of you that know me well or have seen me wearing shorts might already know that.) It leads to the fulfillment of many other core values. Wisdom can lead to:
- Peace of Mind
- Inner Strength
- Self Awareness
- A Sense of Presence
Dictionary.com defines wisdom as, "knowledge of what is true or right coupled with just judgment as to action."
Wisdom is something we acquire through our own experiences, or an understanding of the experiences of others. Wisdom is also a skill. The more we practice good judgment, the wiser we become.
Identifying the "knowledge of what is true" is also a skill. There are a lot of things we believe to be true despite the lack of supporting facts. Just as practicing good judgment leads to wisdom, ignoring evidence of truth in order to uphold our beliefs in what we "know to be true" is a roadblock to wisdom.
I know some of you might be wondering what the heck I am talking about so let me explain myself using some of my favorite examples.
- Everyone knows "you need a college degree to be successful," yet we also know that's not true
- Everyone knows "you need good grades to be successful," yet we know that's not true,
- Everyone knows "You need experience to be successful," yet we know that's not true.
The fact is we all know people who are wildly successful at what they do despite poor grades; lack of degree; and no prior experience in their present field. If you are a small business owner your earliest discovery just might have been how little you know about owning your own business. Yet, you survived, and sometimes thrived in areas you had no formal training or experience with. Most of what you learned, you taught yourself.
As leaders it is your responsibility to, as Tom Peters (Best Selling Author, In Search Of Excellence; Thriving on Chaos) would say, "Focus in the soft stuff: People, Values, Character and Commitment." As you lead, be sure not to be sidetracked by "what you know," and focus on the truth.
Do you want to become a better leader? Contact us for some One-on-One CEO Leadership Coaching, or our next Group CEO Leadership Coaching Programs.
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(Posted 5/15/2008 by admin) |
Are your employees working to their full potential?
Yes they are!
In fact we all are, all the time.
Let me explain
Throughout my life I have always been interested in the human interactions with each other. Even in my early days as a retail manager I recognized that customer service, however hard to find, was the easiest and cheapest way to increase the experience for everyone involved. Yet, to this day good service is so rare that the positive impact can last several days. What's worse is that we have come to expect bad service and when we get it we are hardly phased.
I have come to learn this "Everyone is loving to the highest degree possible all of the time."
This realization is something I need to share with you so you can remember that the next time you run into someone that you just can't seem to get along with. Always remember that those people are doing the best they can under their current circumstances, and perhaps you can try to improve their circumstances by loving back a little bit more.
Recently I came to realize that human potential works in exactly the same way. Our potential is not a fixed line in the sky that is predetermined at birth. Our potential is in direct proportion to our circumstances.
If you have a salesperson that regularly performs below the quota you set for them, perhaps you need to look at their potential.
If you consider they hate:
-Their Job
-Their Boss
-Their Product
-Their Customer
-Their Spouse
the fact that they can produce 50% of quota is actually quite astounding.
In order for us to perform at peak levels we must:
-Be Happy
-In Service to those we are meant to serve
-In Alignment with our Core Values
As Leaders it is your responsibility to create an atmosphere of peak performance.
You can do this by saying Loud and Proud
"This is who we are, this is what we stand for, and this is who we serve!
Your ability to communicate that message to your employees when you hire, train, and communicate to them will increase your organization's overall potential.
Your employees are always working to their highest potential and it is your responsibility to raise that bar for them. As you create the vision for your company, be in service to those you have inspired to make that vision come to life.
Remember - No one wants to hate their job - we all want to be engaged and energized at work and it is up to you to create that.
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(Posted 4/29/2008 by admin) |
Let's Be Realistic.
The Economy is tough; the job market stinks; nobody is hiring; talent is hard to find; nobody is spending money.
The excuses are everywhere. What I find interesting on how consistently the talk is always negative.
Up until just recently, you couldn't go a day without hearing about the shrinking talent pool. All the workforce conversation was about the loss of 64 million workers to retirement, and the massive skills gap.
Now of course, all the talk is about the economy, and the loss of jobs and opportunity. I just wonder how much of this is a self-fulfilling prophecy.
We can read all of the articles we want about the struggling economy, and the shrinking talent pool, yet we all know of people and companies that never seem to be affected by outside influences. The fact is, for every situation it is all too easy to find the negative, but the fact is there is always another side to the story.
For example, try, I mean it, really try to go 24 hours without hearing about the housing "crisis." Then consider all of the people looking to buy a new home. Guess what No crisis for them.
When you focus on service more than sales your value increases in times of flux. When you build relationships based on trust and value you can create opportunities to strengthen those relationships as the trusted advisor. You are also presented with new opportunities to serve the people you are meant to serve as changes always present different needs and new opportunities.
Consider the people you are meant to serve. How are their needs evolving in these trying times? When you discover their potential needs and offer solutions you will win today, and tomorrow.
(Posted 4/16/2008 by admin) |
Success is not Something You Achieve.
Success is something you attract by the person you become."
I heard this quote from Jim Rohn. If you are not familiar with Jim Rohn, he is the motivational speaker that all other Motivational Speakers look up to. According to Mr. Rohn, this quote is not his own. When Jim was just 22 years old, his mentor shared this quote with him.
As a CEO Leadership Coach, I think of this quote often, for myself, as well as for my clients. Owning your own company is so personally demanding. To be successful you have to satisfy the demands of:
Your Customers
Your Company
Your Employees
Your Community
Your Government
Your Family
and of course. yourself.
The problem is, as you look at the list, it seems as though it is written in the order of importance we place on it.
We sacrifice our families and ourselves in order to better satisfy the others.
Here is the catch.
You can never be the "World's Best Boss" (reference to Michael Scott form the hit TV Series the Office intended) until you have mastered yourself.
Self Mastery is the key that will open the door to improvements in all the other areas of your life.
Yet far too often, we worry about our own needs last.
Your intentions are noble, yet detrimental to your full potential.
I recently received an e-mail from one of Jim Rohn's colleagues, Chris Widener suggesting a self imposed boot camp.
Click Here for the article.
Here is a brief synopsis. The purpose of Boot Camp is to instill permanent, positive changes in the most effective, and efficient way possible.
In order to achieve positive change, you must shake up your normal habits of behavior until you create new ones.
So I invite you to become your own personal Drill Sergeant. Throughout your day, imagine if your drill sergeant was standing behind you "eyeballin" your every move.
What would you do differently?
If you need more help, sign up for One-on-One CEO Leadership Coaching, or our next Group CEO Leadership Coaching Programs.
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(Posted 4/1/2008 by admin) |
Are you a True American Business Owner?
Many American Business owners are founded on the traditions of our great forefathers. This country was founded with the spirit only a true entrepreneur can appreciate.
Can you imagine the guts it took to leave the comfort of the established system?
Can you imagine how these mavericks felt about being told what they can and can't do?
How everything they earned would be taxed?
What religion they could or could not worship?
Of course you can!
These emotions mirror the emotions you felt when you finally decided to go off on your own and establish your own system.
Like our forefathers, you decided you were going to be different!
You were going to be better!
Also like our forefathers, things turned out to be pretty much the same.
Think About it-
How many of the things that you ran form as an employee have you incorporated into your own business? Didn't you just recreate a smaller version of the "old country" you got so tired of being a part of?
Sure your title has changed, but the systems rarely do. Your past experiences influence your life, and far too often the habits we were taught and trained through our education and past employers resurface in our current situation.
Could that be the cause of your lack of fulfillment?
Is that why more than 50% of the American workforce is not engaged in the work they do?
Is that why you are overworked, and underappreciated?
Could Be.
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(Posted 3/17/2008 by admin) |
Wake Up!
50% of the World's Income is in the hands of 2% of the People.
That means that 98% of us are doing something wrong!
Consider this: If you are doing the wrong thing, does it matter how good you get at it?
Billionaire Richard Branson, owns and operates 11 Businesses, yet he has been quoted as saying "If I prioritize correctly I can accomplish all my work in the first fifteen minutes of every day." So why is it that it takes the average business owner 15 hours to accomplish all of his days work? Seriously, When was the last time you finished everything you set out to accomplish?
The fact is traditional ways of thinking and doing business won't ever lead to wealth.
Do you know that more than 50% of Americans hate their jobs? According to Gallup Management Journal one out of every 6 employees is actively, and knowingly sabotaging your efforts.
Did you know there is something you can do about it?
Wealth is a mindset. Wealth comes from separating your work from your productivity, and living with abundance in all things. Contrary to popular belief you don't need to choose between wealth and well-being. You truly can have it all.
When you make the Transition2Wealth you can enjoy all of the things you wanted when you launched your business in your imagination long ago. Go to Transition2Wealth.com to Register for the upcoming workshop.
You will discover how to separate your work form your productivity, and how to increase the joy and passion that has been fading from your life.
How many times have you said, "There has to be a better way?" There is a better way. There is way that will help you to stop chasing customers and dollars, and start chasing your dreams and experiencing wealth today, and everyday.
Take this Self Assessment
Please Rate the Following Areas of your life and Business based on current circumstances (1 being poor 5 being Great)
Poor (1) Fair(2) Good(3) Better (4) Great(5)
Category
Work/Life Balance ____
Stress Management ____
Time Management ____
Number of Clients ____
Quality of Clients ____
Love What I do ____
Still Love Doing it ___
MY life is filled with
Joy & Passion ____
My Exit Strategy ____
When you make the Transition2Wealth you can expect an increase in every one of these categories. The Transition2Wealth is not a business strategy as much as it a life strategy. Wealth is represented by abundance in all things. The Transition2Wealth system allows you to experience abundance in your relationships, your personal freedom, and fulfillment, as well as financial freedom. When you make the Transition2Wealth you will increase the Joy and Passion in your life for years to come.
Post your comments here
Category: finance
(Posted 2/28/2008 by admin) |
I have a Secret
I know the meaning of life!
It's really quite simple. The meaning of life is to be happy and seek fulfillment.
In other words do more of the things you like to do, and less of the things you don't.
Being happy is simple, but it isn't easy. There is so much to complain about, and so much that we have to do that we don't want to do.
The Transition2Wealth system can help you both be happy, and find fulfillment.
There is only one way to truly understand and appreciate what it means to experience fulfillment.
Here's the good news!
You can experience fulfillment every day.
You see fulfillment can only come from service to others.
The closer you get to serving those you are "meant" to serve, the more fulfillment you will experience.
Join us in Wallingford starting March 5th for our Live Transition2Wealth Workshop.
Click Here for details.
Go to Transition2Wealth.com to find out more about my Transition 2 Wealth Workshops.
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(Posted 2/22/2008 by admin) |
The New Paradigm
The American Workforce is changing. We are in a time where the company needs the employee more than the employee needs the company. With the Y Generation entering the workplace, coupled with the soon-to-be-retiring Baby Boomers leaving the workplace, the landscape is beginning to change.
This may very well be the first paradigm shift that is not technology based. Because of that, it poses some drastic challenges for today's employers. Those who don't act quickly will likely suffer some consequence regardless of current size, and market position.
With technology paradigms it is often safe, even recommended to wait for the early adapters to carve the new landscape for the massess. With the shrinking talent, and new expectations of the Amercian workforce, the companies that wait for the early adapters will be left out in the cold.
The days of arrogantly "qualifying" candidates are over. It is now your turn to prove the your entire workforce, day in and day out, that you "qualify" as a valid employer.
It is time to rethink everything you do, and ask yourself Why? It is up to you to reshape what it is going to mean to work for you. We can help you to understand the challenges ahead, and help you to the forefront of change.
This is the first time in a long time when the smaller business has the upper hand. The spoils will go to the organizatons that can act quickly to the increased demands and expectations of their employees, as well as their customers, and shareholders.
We are here to help!
(Posted 2/21/2008 by admin) |
No time to Grow?
Business is good. You are busy and you have a nice stream of revenue, and clients. From almost every perspective things are going well. So what's the problem?
Why is it that you are beginning to feel this little knot in your stomach? As things continue to go well, why is it getting harder and harder to sleep at night?
Are you holding back?
I don't blame you!
After all, you already work way too many hours now. You missed Suzie's game last weekend and you haven't been on vacation in years. You have so much work piled up on your desk, now just is not the right time to grow.
Oh! I understand. As soon as you "catch up" you are going to start growing the business. That makes sense - for you!. What about your employees, your customers, your probable purchasers, and your company?
Don't confuse your personal issues with your business issues. As a business leader it is your responsibility to guide your company to success, not hold it back. Your time management issues should not be your company's problem.
If they are, "that sounds like a you problem." If it is, what are you doing about it?
I have an idea that can have an immediate impact in your life, on your business, and with your family. It is really simple, but I must warn you that you may not like it.
Turn off the television.
Go to Transition2Wealth.com to find out more about my Transition 2 Wealth Workshops.
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(Posted 2/17/2008 by admin) |
Would you Sell to a Bigot?
I just responded to a blog entry on BNET entitled "Would You Sell to a Racist Bigot?" (Click the link to see the article)
Click Here to see my response.
Choosing who you serve, and in turn who you spend time with is by far one of the greatest benefits to Building a Better Workforce and making the Transition2Wealth
We all have those people in our lives that we would just rather avoid. Sometimes they are in our business, sometimes in our personal lives, and sometimes they are in our family. Often times they are nice people with good intentions, but they just rub us the wrong way. Often times it is just a matter of incompatible core values.
No matter how hard we try, we know that when we are around them we have to put on a face. We also know that this "act" is on a timer. The time is specific to each person, but it is very accurate. As the buzzer is about to sound, all of your energy is focused on getting away from this person. It is frustrating, stressful, uncomfortable, and sometimes difficult.
If your client base is full of people like this, your ability to serve is extremely limited. The level and quality of your work is always affected by your attitudes and emotions. Ask yourself "how good of a job can I be doing if my attitude and emotions are screaming at me to get out of here before the buzzer goes off and I snap?"
Ah! The contrary. Luckily, we all have people in our lives that just naturally make you smile. You just can't help it. When you see them you always make time to say hello, even if it is for a few seconds. These people add joy and energy into our lives. It is hard to explain, but impossible to ignore. We just feel better around certain people. When these people are also the people you do business with, the fulfillment in your life goes far beyond what your bank account says.
But consider this. When the person that makes you feel that way is a supplier to your family or your business, you hardly think twice about how much you spend. The thought of going to a competitor is out of the question. They become your trusted advisor, and together you both add value to the people you are meant to serve.
Go to Transition2Wealth.com to find out more about my Transition 2 Wealth Workshops.
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(Posted 2/13/2008 by admin) |
Do You love what You Do, and do you still love doing it?
Think about your answers. For some of you the answers might be obvious, but I assure you they are not all the same. There are a lot of people who aren't crazy about what they "sell," but enjoy selling it. A rare and lucky few still love what they do and still love doing it. If you fall into that category I offer you many congratulations. If you have yet to begin experiencing wealth, it would be my pleasure to help you get there.
The truth is far too many of you love what you do, in fact can see yourself doing nothing else, yet you no longer love doing it. Are you confused about your future? Have you ever wondered why you haven't been rewarded the way you think you deserve to be? Are you buried in "minor emergencies" that steal your energy and enthusiasm for your work, and your life?
Has the business that you thought would energize and inspire you taken over your life and at times overwhelmed you? Are you still waiting on that personal freedom that you thought was on its way? Does it sometimes seem difficult to get out your own way?
Despite the fact that you devote everything to the success of your business, do you feel unappreciated by your employees, and your customers (and perhaps even your own family)? When was the last time you were able to take three weeks off to re-energize?
If any of these thoughts have entered your mind rest assured. You are not alone, and there is a solution.
The life you are looking for is available to you, and more if you just focus on three simple principles:
1.What is it you stand for?
2.Who is it you were meant to serve?
3. Stop Selling and start serving!
When it is all said and done are you going to stand at the pearly gates and say
"I sure did sell a lot." Or would you rather say, "I sure did serve a lot."
The choice is yours.
Go to Transition2Wealth.com to find out more about my Transition 2 Wealth Workshops.
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(Posted 2/11/2008 by admin) |
You Will Never Be Rich.
At least you will never feel like you are.
I recently read an article on the Wall Street Journal Wealth Report entitled A Rich Person's Definition of Rich. I encourage you all to Click here to read it.
In the article, it points out that "Previous studies have shown that when people are asked how much it takes to be rich, they always give a number that's twice their current net worth or income. Those with $100,000 in incomes say $200,000, while those worth $5 million say $10 million."
This is a point that bears mentioning. In my Transition 2 Wealth Workshops, I discuss the difference between experiencing wealth and chasing riches.
I ask you this question: How much money does it take to experience wealth, compared to how much money do you need to experience riches.
Chasing riches is a game you cannot win. According to the Wall Street Journal Wealth Report, riches is always defined as more than you have. When you embrace abundance, you can experience wealth every day, like I do.
Go to Transition2Wealth.com to find out more about my Transition 2 Wealth Workshops.
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(Posted 1/28/2008 by admin) |
Do You Have a Dream?
What is your dream?
In my book (6 Simple Steps to Building a Better Workforce) I suggest that if you build your business around your core values then you will attract like minded people in the form of customers, business partners, and employees.
Today we have the opportunity to reflect on the core values of one Martin Luther King Jr. Martin Luther King Jr. is remembered for so many incredible and positive things, but it is his speech that we think of most.
His "I have a dream" speech is the culmination of one man's wonderful example of understanding what you believe, working towards that end, and attracting like-minded people.
There is another lesson here for us to reflect on. Martin Luther King's life's work was from the perspective of service, not of sales. In other words, everything he said, thought and accomplished was to "serve" the people he was meant to serve.
His life was not about personal gain (how can I sell more, earn more, grow more, etc.), but rather how much more can I help others (customers) live better lives.
To facilitate the transition to wealth, one must stop chasing sales, and customers, but look for more opportunities to serve the people you are meant to serve.
I urge you to spend some time considering the people you are meant to serve, and stop thinking of ways to sell them more, but rather ways to serve them more.
(hint: pretend there are no limits to what you can do - because there aren't.)
Call me or Send Me an Email and let's talk about strategies that can help you stop selling and start serving today.
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(Posted 1/21/2008 by admin) |
Are you a DIYer? (Do It Yourself)
This past summer I attended my 25th High School Reunion. It was a great weekend full of opportunities to reconnect with old friends. We retold stories from our past lives and told new stories of our lives since High School. When I told friends about my book (6 Simple Steps to Building a Better Workforce) I heard all sorts of negative attitudes toward Building a Better Workforce:
"I'll tell you how to build a better workforce, just get rid of everybody. You're better off doing it yourself."
I can certainly understand why so many people share that sentiment. Honestly, what was your reaction to that statement?
Well I am here to tell you that you are not better off doing it yourself. It may seem like the best short-term solution, but it is also the biggest cause to long-term, deep seeded problems.
For starters, the more things you do yourself, the less leverage you have and the more you risk losing in the event something happens to you.
Think about that. If you decided you were better off doing everything yourself, what happens when you get sick? I am not even talking about an emergency. Even a minor illness can impact your productivity. You may "work through it" but your illness is likely to last longer than if you simply listened to your body and took a day off.
Has that ever happened to you? Has your business ever suffered because you, or a family member has had a minor illness?
The fact is very few of us have created enough leverage to overcome every emergency. However, leverage is one of the key elements of wealth creation. In order to create wealth, you must be able to separate your work from your productivity. There is a direct link to this ratio. One very important aspect of wealth is determined by the production to wealth equation.
Great wealth comes from the highest levels of production with the least amount of effort.
OK! Let me repeat that.
Great Wealth = High Levels of Productivity + Low levels of effort.
You will not achieve true wealth until you acknowledge that equation.
So let me ask you a question. Do you still think you're better off doing it yourself?
Don't go it alone. Call me or Send Me an Email and let's talk about strategies that can help you start experiencing wealth today.
Post your comments here
(Posted 1/19/2008 by admin) |
What's your Story?
I just read a terrific article on ERE regarding your employment branding strategy.
Of course, if you know me, you know how the whole concept of Employment Branding makes me crazy.
However, this is a great read.
Read the article here
In case you are wondering, "employment branding" drives me crazy because I believe that if your message come from your core values, whether you are a person, a department, or an organization, then there should only be one message.
In other words, you should not have separate brands for customers, and employees.
I love this article because it allows you to demonstrate your core values through how you treat your employees. By having your employees share their stories, you are sharing experiences that demonstrate what it means to do business with you, whether you are a customer, client, employee, or neighbor.
It is a great concept that you can implement today!
Go check it out right now.
Call or Send Me an Email so we can share ideas on how to include this strategy into your business model.
Post your comments here
(Posted 1/16/2008 by admin) |
"Not exactly what I had in mind."
Think back to your childhood. Can you recall your first aspirations? Maybe you wanted to be the President of the United States; a Baseball player; a firefighter; a scientist, or an astronaut. When I was real young I wanted to be the President, then an athlete, later I wanted to be a lawyer. I remember how much I enjoyed dreaming about my future when I was young. Of course, this was long before I knew what limitations were.
You know, I can't remember when I started to recognize limitations and let them ruin my fun. Maybe it happened during those teenage years when it becomes so important, as a parent, to make sure your kids are afraid of everything in order to keep them safe.
Now think back to the day you launched your business in your imagination. Wasn't that just the greatest feeling? If you're like me, you felt as if you transported back into that child daydreaming, without limitations, what your business could turn into. I remember how with each passing second I became more and more excited about each new idea and each new direction that idea took me.
Sadly, most small business owners, like the teenager's spirit shackled with a new realization of limitations, look at where they are and say, "This isn't exactly what I had in mind." The image of themselves smiling, happy, and stress-free is replaced with images of cash flow problems, people problems, and system problems. Every second away from the office translates to more work later and a constant flow of phone calls with "situations" that require your attention.
I have an idea.
Grab your Blackberry, Palm Pilot, or open your Outlook and schedule an appointment with your inner child. Sit with him/her for an hour, and dream again about the limitless possibilities the future has in store for you. When you are down to the last ten minutes of your meeting, invite your future self to join the meeting, and ask that person what your next move should be.
If it makes sense, and I think it will, then do it "Within One Week." (WOW!!)
If he says contact me, then do it sooner.
Because I can't wait to share in your success!
Call or Send Me an Email so we can share ideas on how to make work fun again.
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(Posted 1/14/2008 by admin) |
Peanut Shells on the floor.
I hope by now everyone has had the opportunity to go to a pub, or bar where they encourage you to throw your peanut shells on the floor. If you haven't yet been, then consider this a weekend challenge to talk to your friends, find the closest one, and go there by Monday.
I love that concept for three very important reasons:
It is.
Memorable: People talk about the bar that lets you throw your peanut shells on the floor. I have been to hundreds of bars, pubs, and restaurants in my life and I remember just a handful. Among the select few that I remember are the one's that had peanut shells on the floor. I may not even remember the name of the pub, but I remember the experience, the people I was with, and that I had fun.
Consistent with Core Values: When a pub owner allows customers to throw peanut shells on the floor he/she is sending a clear message that they want customers to relax and have a good time; to have fun, and loosen up. It helps the patrons feel welcome, comfortable to be themselves, and wanted back tomorrow. What friendly neighborhood restaurant wouldn't want to send that message?
Simple and Inexpensive: I would imagine it takes a little longer to sweep the floor at night, but you have to sweep the floor anyway. Compare that to the money you budget every year to let people know what it means to be your customer, client, or partner.
If your goal is to Build a Better Workforce: to make more money by working less, to create leverage for yourself through the success of your employees, and to transition from chasing dollars to chasing your dreams and experiencing wealth, then ask yourself this question.
Is Working for me memorable?
If the answer is no, then change it. Focus on your core values, and keep it simple. When you create an environment that is memorable, consistent to its core values, and simplistic in it's execution you create an opportunity to increase employee and customer engagement like no other.
Other Benefits: By expressing your core values in a memorable way you are helping to set expectations to your customers, and future employees. If someone is in the mood for white glove service, elegant atmosphere, and expensive champagne they will know not to enter the pub with peanut shells on the floor.
When working for you is memorable, your employees will share their stories with everyone they know and meet. Every time someone asks them about their job they will share the cool things you do to be different and in the process reveal the core values that drive your business.
You will begin to attract new customers, business partners, and grow your talent pool from sources you never had the opportunity to explore or even think of.
Call or Send Me an Email so we can share ideas on how to make working for you Memorable.
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(Posted 1/11/2008 by admin) |
Your Company knows no limits:
My wife recently had emergency Oral Surgery. The Doctor suggested partial sedation, and my wife was more than willing to accept his recommendation. However, this required her to arrange for a ride home, and I was more than happy to accompany her in her hour of need.
I was actually a bit surprised when the nurse came to get me from the waiting room just a short time later. She informed me that everything went well, and it was my job to keep my wife awake and alert so we could go home. When I walked into her little recovery room, it was clear I had some work to do. Awake and alert seemed a long way away. I reached out and held her wrist, and started to raise and lower her arm. It was as limp as freshly cooked pasta. I doubt if she even realized that I was touching her.
About a minute later I sat her up and because her muscles were so relaxed, her head fell back and banged against the wall. (She doesn't know that so if you meet her, be sure not to mention it.)
I continued to try and engage her in conversation and I told her that I was there to help her get ready to leave. Immediately, She tried to stand up and said, "I'm ready. Let's Go!"
I convinced her that she was not quite ready, and that it was all right because we weren't in any big hurry. Soon enough she was able to make it to the car and I drove her home. She slept the whole way home and as I drove I was reminded of here trying to stand up while proclaiming that she was "ready to go."
I had a thought. It occurred to me that although drugged up pretty good, her brain was free of distractions. Her brain ignored her body and said, "I can do this." This was fascinating to me. I couldn't stop thinking about how her brain ignored the obvious limitations of her body. It began to make sense to me. Our brains are capable of so much more than the rest of us allows for. It has no limits and when distractions are out of the way (namely your own negativity) your brain knows you are capable of so much more than you are currently achieving.
As I continued to ponder how our bodies are limiting our brains, I began to wonder how much my company is being held back.
I imagine if my company were a living, breathing thing, it would tell me that it was "ready to go;" that it was capable of so much more.
I am going to listen to my company. After all, I think it is smarter than me.
What would your company say?
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(Posted 1/10/2008 by admin) |
"I love what I do!!!" (Are you sure?)
"I love my job" is a phrase that may be used more in jest than in truth. In fact if you have ever said "I love my job," I am going to offer you some food for thought today.
If you think you love your job (and I hope that you think that), I ask you to really consider all the aspects of your job. Do you love the hours? Or the people you work with? Or the travel; the commute; the slow payers; the no payers; the people problems, and the systems problems?
How about your suppliers; the tax man; worrying about the future; the burnout; the shrinking talent pool; retirement; family life; personal time?
I will be the first to admit I cherish the opportunities I have to serve my clients. But there are a lot of things I have to do as part of my "job" that I hate doing.
I'll tell you what I do love...
I love the result. I love the feelings and emotions associated with that result. I love it so much that I can rationalize that the "work" is great. I can convince myself that all those tedious, and annoying distractions that I have yet been able to delegate or outsource are actually enjoyable. (But they really aren't.)
So what does all this mean? To me, it sheds light on an important distinction between being wealthy, and being rich. Wealth starts with the ability to separate work from productivity. When you are able to separate yourself from work, while increasing productivity, you begin to experience true wealth.
Wealth is confidently sticking to the parts of your job that you truly love doing with a high degree of assurance that all other aspects of your business are being taken care of by others.
So, do you really love what you do?
Here is a challenge for you. Think about all of the aspects of your "job." Make a list and mark each item with a L for Love; N for Neutral; and H for Hate. Begin to transition to wealth by eliminating, delegating, or outsourcing every H and N you can.
Here is the best part - Make it a new habit to appreciate and cherish every second that you find yourself feeling all of the wonderful emotions that result from you doing those "L" tasks. In time, every single time you find yourself doing an "L" task it will be like practicing wealth. Your attitude will skyrocket, and everyone around you will take notice.
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(Posted 1/7/2008 by admin) |
Salesperson Wanted! Experience Required???
For many small business owners the task of bringing sales people on is very stressful. There are so many things to consider. Ask yourself if any of these thoughts creep into your head as you go through this process:
- How much should I pay?
- How should I structure the pay?
- Should I restructure everyone's pay?
- Do I need someone that is experienced?
- I need to hire someone because I am too busy to get my work done, how am I going to find time to attract, and acquire the right person for me?
- How do I know who is the right person for me?
- I don't have time to manage these people.
- I don't have time to train these people.
- As the list goes on into eternity .
The fact is, it is an important decision that you must take seriously. Many of these are legitimate concerns for organizations of all sizes. Just this morning I was at my twice monthly networking group in Worcester, MA, when one of the members mentioned that he was looking to hire a salesperson. He insisted that he needed someone that he didn't have to teach how to sell. He acknowledged that the candidate did not need industry experience as long as he had sales experience.
I approached him after the meeting and we began to discuss the realities of sales experience. The fact is Sales is hard. You need to have a certain attitude to be successful in sales.
Here is the scary part In study after study of Successful People (not just sales people), future success has little to do with past experiences. Many of the most successful people in the world carry around a past chock full of failures.
Here is one other thing to consider. I think by now we can all agree to at least acknowledge the Pareto Principle, or what's most commonly referred to as the 80/20 Rule. This rule implies that 80% of your results come from 20% of your employees. This is especially true in sales. Each month, most of your sales come from the top 20% of your sales team.
Don't take my word for it. Look at the last year's results and determine what percentage of your sales force was responsible for 80% of your revenue.
Now consider what this means. It means that 80% of the people "with experience" combine to produce less than 25% of the sales revenue.
Are you sure you want to require experience?
In order to Build a Better Workforce and create leverage for yourself, you have to define what your business stands for and hire people that share your beliefs and passions.
Am I saying ignore experience? Well, maybe. (When comparing candidates certainly you should consider experience, but don't assume that just because someone has experience that they have had any training.)
I think closer to the point is to focus on the things that have proven to predict job success, and frankly prior experience isn't one of those things.
to find solutions for better sales hiring.
to find solutions for better interview questions.
Post your comments here
(Posted 1/4/2008 by admin) |
You Have to Believe to Succeed.
Napolean Hill, in his best selling book Think and Grow Rich wrote "Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe it can achieve." In fact I wrote about this very idea a few weeks ago (see Why you missed your mark for 2007, and what you can do Today to improve performance and production in 2008). However, I failed to mention a very important caveat to this principle.
If you consider yourself a leader, this may be the most important thing you ever read from this site, or anywhere else for that matter. More often than not successful people start off lacking a strong belief in themselves and their value at work. Here is the kicker. Despite the fact that they did not believe in themselves, other people did. Often times that person was in a leadership role.
I recently heard a story about a young 19 year old athlete competing in Triple A baseball. At first he was excited. He had reached a level that few people his age had ever achieved. Things were going great, but it didn't last long. He soon realized that quality of pitching was gretaer than any he had experienced before. He struggled hitting the curve ball and he soon became very discouraged. Within a few months of the happiest day of his career thr fans started booing, and the press started to question his ability. Completeley discouraged, he wandered into his coaches office to tell him he was quitting the team. He explained to his coach that he didn't think he could play in this league and he was tired of hearing boos from the home crowd.
His coach just listened and smiled. He told the young player that he understood what he was going through, but he re-assured him that he was a good player with a lot of talent. He said to the young center fielder that he believed in him, and he encouraged the young man to begin to believe in himself. The words of encouragement, backed by a sincere belief in his future success convinced Willie Mays to not quit in his rookie year and he went on to have a Hall of Fame Career.
As a leader, you have to expect great things from your people, and you have to believe that they can achieve them. They may not believe you at first, but you have to be strong in your belief. If you look around at your team, and find that you don't believe in them you are left with only two choices Change your mind, or change your people. (Hint: It might be easier to change your mind.)
Call or Send Me an Email so we can start Building a Better Workforce for you.
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(Posted 1/2/2008 by admin) |
Get a Better Job This Year!
I just looked up the most popular New Year's Resolutions over the last few years. The top ten lists I came across vary a bit, but for the most part they are very similar. Most lists included spending more time with family and friends; improving health (reduce stress, exercise more, quit smoking, etc.); improving ones financial situation (get out of debt, make more money, save more); and almost all lists included getting a new job.
Several months ago I read an article in Monster.com's Human Resource newsletter that suggested that finding a new job was the one New Years Resolution that most responders (more than 50%) failed to accomplish. Of course, this survey caught my attention. You see, the article was written in April, reflecting on the first three months of the year. If you're an employee I am sure that these numbers don't seem surprising, or disturbing in any way.
If you're an employer, there is an entirely different story here. In fact if you are a small business owner, these figures represent the biggest obstacle between where you are today and where you deserve to be. I am not just talking from a business standpoint.
What does all this mean to you? Consider this: Using these figures, if you have 25 employees making an average of $33,000/yr, when you include Benefit packages you are spending about $1 Million on payroll. If 50% of your people decided in December of last year that they wanted to leave, but stayed through March, you will have paid $125,000 to 12 people who have already quit your company, but continue to get paychecks and benefits.
That is just the tip of the iceberg. My most difficult challenge is also the most painful. It is painful for me, and it is painful for my clients. When people consider bad hires they envision the person who sends his/her evil twin to work on the first day. The person looks and talks like the person in the interview room, but he/she doesn't act the same. All everyone can say is "who hired this idiot?" The fact is those people usually don't stay very long. Here is the bombshell - for most companies your worst hire is still there. He or she has checked out a long time ago, yet continues to take home paychecks and benefits.
Want to see what I mean right now? Think of the last few "key people" that left your organization. Considering the overall scheme of your business strategy, are you better off with that person gone? Many Business leaders I speak with tell me "Bob moving on was the best thing that could have happened to us."
If you want 2008 to bring you better health; more time with your family and friends; help the people that work for you to find a "better" job.
Let us help you make 2008 the best year yet. Call or Send Me an Email so we can start Building a Better Workforce for you.
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(Posted 12/31/2007 by admin) |
Calling All Leaders (out)!
Are you really a leader? Before you answer consider this: The Webster's Dictionary defines leader as: a person who has commanding authority or influence. OK, on the surface that looks good, but let's take a closer look. If that is the case, is leadership going to provide optimal growth and development? Are you creating leverage for yourself by following that definition? The answer is clearly NO!
If what you're looking for is optimal growth; more money with less work, and ways to leverage yourself for more time and personal freedom (in other words true wealth) leadership will not get you there. Before we go any further I want to set something straight. Leadership is important to your success. You need to continually develop and improve your leadership skills throughout your life to reach true fulfillment. However, your vision needs to shift to the future, and that future has to include you doing less.
Let me explain. Leadership implies, and requires your authority. If you want more time, and personal freedom you will have to appoint a new leader to take your place. Consider the Presidency of the United States. Like many companies, there is one clearly defined leader. When his term is up we choose a new leader and change direction. Often times we change to a whole new leadership philosophy. Now let's suppose we consider your business. If you continue to assume the role of leader, eventually you will be forced to do one of two things. The first is to choose your successor, who will undoubtedly put his/her own stamp on the business you built. It will lose some of your personal touch, and begin to evolve under the new leadership. The second option would be to sell your company. In either case you forfeit control of the business you have dedicated you life to.
Oh Wait! I almost forgot. There is one more problem with either of those options. You see, there is a direct relation to your leadership skills and the value of your company. However, the problem is; now listen to this very carefully: the stronger your leadership, the less valuable your company is in the marketplace without you? Ask yourself this question: If I were no longer here how much business would we lose immediately? Within the first quarter? Within the first year? Business Brokers know this and they devalue your company based on their perception of your leadership and involvement.
So what does all this mean? Simply put, you need a strategy that allows for leadership, growth and leverage at the same time. You do this by applying the 6 Simple Steps to Building a Better Workforce as you transition from leader to guide. Think about what this means. You maintain leadership control as you build leverage all while increasing the value of your company. Your ultimate goal is to separate your personal workload from the productivity and success of the company.
So it adds up to this. You create true wealth by leveraging your vision and dreams; building teams that believe in, and are committed to accomplishing your dreams with you. You have the option of staying as long as you want, in as limited a role as you want while building a legacy for your family and community; or you build an organization that can sustain itself without you, thereby increasing its value in the marketplace, if in fact you decide to sell.
Start the New Year off right and start guiding your company in the direction of your dreams. Whether your ultimate goal is to increase the value of your company for future sale, or to build a legacy for future generations, begin today to make the changes. If you haven't read my book, order it today. It provides a pathway that "guides" you to the financial freedom, and true wealth you deserve.
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(Posted 12/29/2007 by admin) |
Honestly Make Your Resolutions for Greater Success.
With the New Year fast approaching I have spent an inordinate amount of time thinking about taking things to the next level. It is the time of year when most of us look ahead and dream of bigger and better things. Those of us that have yet to give up on the idea of New Years resolutions try to imagine all of the things we want to stop doing and we imagine ourselves better off and "happier" with the new improved habits and results.
Visualization is so often mentioned in popular research on the topic of goal setting. Ironically, it just might be the biggest reason why 99% of us fail to accomplish our quest for betterment. "But Mike, how could that be?" Let me clarify Visualization can play an important role in goal achievement for many people. I use visualization as often as I can. The reason you fail at your well-intentioned endeavors year in and year out is because you aren't visualizing enough information. You are only focusing on the fairy tale ending and neglecting the journey.
In order for you to be successful, you must honestly visualize your preferred outcome, along with all the sacrifices you must be willing to make along the way. Whatever it is you choose to do less of, or more of is going to require new habits, and self-discipline.
Let's use the example of losing weight. When you proclaim that this year you are going to lose weight, or perhaps start going to the gym to lose weight, there is a pretty good chance you are visualizing yourself getting ready to put on that bathing suit, or summer outfit. And just like you learned in that goal-setting seminar you went to 10 years ago, you visualize yourself all happy and smiling, and slimmer. You imagine your friends; some old, some new, all commenting on how good you look. You think, "I can sign on for this. This summer is going to be great. I may even sign up for the local over 30 sports team this year."
Are you ready for this? This is the problem. At the first sign of trouble you are going to get frustrated and quit. If you want to be successful you should be visualizing the 9 degree mornings heading to the gym in the dark freezing your butt off as you are scraping the frost off the windshield. You should be imagining the sore muscles, and those sleepless nights dreaming of Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream. The image you want burned in your brain is you sitting at the St Patrick's Day festival eating cabbage and drinking water.
Now this is the best part. The more difficult you imagine it to be, the easier it will be to overcome and conquer in real life. This quick story from Thanksgiving will illustrate my point. As you may know, my wife Lashanda and I were just married in the beginning of October. This Thanksgiving marked our first Holiday together as a married couple. We decided that we would spend the morning with my children in Connecticut, and then drive to see her parents in Long Island. All I could think of was the horrible Long Island Traffic. Let me tell you, the entire week leading up to our trip I imagined hours, and hours sitting in traffic. The trip usually takes us about 90 minutes. On thanksgiving we made it to our destination in 2 1/2 hours.
Here is the interesting part. When I talked to people about my trip, the traffic situation inevitably came up in conversation. Without fail, 100% of the time, I said the "the traffic wasn't that bad. In fact it wasn't bad a t all." When was the last time you spent an hour in traffic, and felt no reason to complain? Has that ever happened to you?
Remember the last time you imagined a bad situation. It almost never turns out to be as bad as you imagine. If it is easier than you anticipated, then you will feel like it's just plain Easy! Want more proof? Let's take a simple example of that last call you were hesitant to make. Maybe it was to a client, or a disgruntled customer. Did it turn out as bad as you thought?
Now let's suppose you write down all of the things you want to stop doing, or start doing. Go ahead and visualize 6 months out. Treat yourself to a wonderful colorful scene of you looking and feeling great. That is going to be a great reward for overcoming all the hard times ahead. Won't it be worth it?
That is up to You!
Happy New Year, Happy New Beginning.
Remember, if it can be done, it can be done by YOU!
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(Posted 12/21/2007 by admin) |
Have faith - Be persistent.
A few days ago I talked about the importance of believing in yourself, and your teams. I stressed the importance of confidently taking things to the next level of success. Along with confidence comes persistence. Persistence is a true measure of your belief system. Often times we base our persistence on the responses we get from others. Confidence and persistence are easy when things go our way. It is when those things are challenged that the integrity of our mission becomes evident.
I know you have heard it before, but it's true. Nothing worthwhile comes easy. If you're trying to reach the next highest level of success in any endeavor, there are going to be challenges. Every challenge seems to be graciously welcomed by negative people and those that doubt greater things are possible.
I was recently "blessed" with a lesson in persistence while Holiday shopping for my mother. After spending what seemed like an hour checking the label on every woman's sock in the store searching for the ones that met Mom' s specifications, I heard a young boy near the register line start to complain. As I walked past looking to do a little more shopping the boy's complaining turned to screaming. In my lifetime, I have never witnessed such persistence. That boy screamed for what had to be 20 minutes or more. His mother continually told him that "it wasn't going to work this time" but apparently he did not believe her.
What I found most interesting is that the experience seemed to bring people together. Everyone in the store was, at first trying to ignore the boy. As time went by, smirks and glances were exchanged acknowledging what could no longer be ignored. After ten minutes or so, all the customers I came in contact with began to enjoy the experience. It was unclear who people were rooting for; the mother or her son, but there were obvious signs of audience participation. I was compelled to commend the mother on her persistent belief that her son would stop crying.
At the same time, I could not stop the hope for this kid to never lose that persistence. I thought how hard it is to teach persistence to a child when, as parents, we are often the victims and giving in is so easy. In my imagination, I pictured this young boy twenty years out in a suit calling on "potential purchasers" and could only imagine the levels of success he could reach if he was able to maintain his level of commitment.
Unfortunately, I never found out how the story ended because he walked out screaming with his mom smiling right behind him. I thought, "What a great holiday gift to give a child."
This all too familiar occurrence has stayed with me and this is what I have taken away from it:
1. Be persistent in your belief and faith in the result (not the means)
2. Don't be swayed by negative thinkers
3. If your belief is strong enough, any solution can work
4. No Solution will provide it's greatest result if you don't believe in it
Celebrate persistence in others and focus on the desired result, not the "way to get there." Obstacles and negativity are on the way, be prepared, be honest, and be persistent.
Good Luck
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(Posted 12/19/2007 by admin) |
Commissions Only Sales Force
ERE, a recruiters online community recently posted this discussion regarding a company struggling to find talented people. They pay their sales force commissions only (no base, no draw, no benefits).
Click Here to see the discussion.
It's an interesting read (once there, scroll down to see my response).
(Posted 12/14/2007 by admin) |
Why you missed your mark for 2007, and what you can do Today to improve performance and production in 2008.
So you didn't quite hit the sales number you were hoping for in 2007. It was a tough year for a lot of people. There are plenty of valid excuses why your team did not meet expectations. The housing market has attracted a "Black Cloud" mentality that has permeated into the fabric of our daily expressions of attitude. However, that's not why you didn't meet your goals. The reason why you didn't reach your goals in 2007 is the same reason why you will make your numbers in 2008, despite all the excuses your competition, and most of your peers will use for their poor performance this time next year.
You are the reason why you did not achieve those numbers. As much as it pains me to tell you this, you are to blame. In fact, it is safe to say that you are entirely to blame. There may be a few exceptions to this rule. A few of you may have teamed up with your superiors, and/or colleagues. In either case, you are to blame because you did not believe you would reach your goal. Most of you never believed you could.
Be honest! Think back on your beliefs, your actions, and your non-verbal and verbal communications throughout 2007. It may not have started that way. I am sure many of you, like springtime Cubs fans, really felt like this year would be different. But somewhere between then and now the "nay-sayers" got to you and stole your beliefs. Your belief turned to hope, then to doubt. Once doubt kicked in, you never had a chance.
I will admit that on occasion we are pleasantly surprised when our doubts are trumped by the beliefs of others. There may have been times in the past when your team bailed you out and exceeded your expectations, and company objectives. When that happened, do you recall the end of month discussions? I'll bet many of your top performers said things like "I knew we were going to do it," or "I told you we would do it."
The same thing goes for investing in solutions for your company. Of course there are exceptions to every rule, but if you want to be successful it helps to believe you will be successful before you start. Take my company for example. I can deliver the best advice, consult, coaching and tools to help you Build A Better Workforce, but if you don't believe that you can Build A Better Workforce before you purchase from me, I would rather not do business with you. My success can only be measured by your success, and if you don't believe it will make a differece, then it is likely that it won't.
Author Jim Collins, in his book Good to Great, talks suggests the companies that "make the leap" share two characteristics that are critical to reaching the next level of success. You must be brutally honest, while being perpetually optimistic. I encourage you to do that. Be brutally honest with yourself, and take responsibility for your lack of belief, and be perpetually optimistic that next year will be a successful one.
So as a Holiday Gift to all of you, I am sending you the gift of success for 2008. I am sending my strongest belief that if it can be done, it can be done by you. I believe 2008 will bring you success like no other. Let my belief encourage your belief, as your belief will encourage others to believe. You have a little over two weeks to strengthen your beliefs in yourself, your company, and your team. Start 2008 Strong and believe it will be your best year yet.
Happy New Year!
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(Posted 12/14/2007 by admin) |
Sales Pros: Born or Made
Check out my response to a Bnet Blog on Sales Pros.
Click Here for the original article.
Click Here to see my response.
(Posted 12/13/2007 by admin) |
Finding Motivation
It's been twenty-five years since Zig Ziglar reminded me that motivation follows action. Twenty-five years later I don't remember which book or tape the statement came from, but I remember the statement as if I read it, or heard it this morning. I think the reason that statement crawls in and out of my conscious thoughts is because it is so profound. Everything we hear and read about motivation is geared toward getting things started. Mostly, getting other people started.
True motivation must come from within. Each one of us makes the final decision on our "engagement." How engaged, or motivated we are about something can be influenced by outside factors, but like "The Donald", in the end, what we say goes. Unlike Trump, many of us don't take advantage of that opportunity.
One of the most important rules for success is "Control the Controllables." The ultra-successful people apply this rule using both sides of the coin. In other words, every aspect of their lives within their control that brings them closer to their goals, in business, or in life is taken advantage of. If getting to the office at 6:30 am will help them reach their goals, you can bet that they will be at the office everyday at 6:30 am. One critical point must be made. Because something is within our control, does not mean we are in control of it. You are not in control of anything until you take control.
The ultra-successful do not concern themselves with things beyond their control. Understanding what is beyond your control, and letting go of the things that stretch beyond your reach is critical to managing productivity, stress, and fulfillment. Regardless of your reach, you will never be able to reach back in time. The past is beyond your control. You cannot change it, but you can learn from it.
So what does this have to do with motivation? That's a good question! In order for you to make the leap to ultra-successful you have to start "Controlling the Controllables" including your own motivation. Before I go deeper, I want to re-visit the Zig Ziglar statement that motivation follows action. Let's stay with sports, and let's use golf as an example. Everyone who has ever played golf at any level is familiar with the feeling you get after hitting a great shot. It is absolutely true "you only need one" good shot to keep you coming back. Even when your scores were well above 100, there was no substitution for that one shot where you held that pose, and watched that ball fly over the fairway, and land inches from your target.
All your motivation to keep playing came from that action. Every time someone asked you to play you imagined yourself in that same pose, watching that same ball landing in that same exact spot over and over again until your next great shot took it's place.
Sometimes your motivation comes from seeing someone else's actions. If you witness someone else either succeeding, or failing, often times that gets our juices flowing to go after the same excitement we feel when we hit the 300 yard drive, or sink the double bender for birdie.
Controlling your motivation means taking an active role in managing it. Throughout your day, you are being offered by the world, many opportunities to springboard your own motivation to higher levels. Unfortunately, you're too busy to notice them. Take the time, energy, and effort to see what is offered to you by the world around you and use it to motivate you into massive action. Massive action will result in Massive results, if you continue to control the controllables, and let go of the things you can't control.
I urge you to look for those springboards and get a running start when you find them. Action leads to motivation. You don't need motivation to start something; you need it to finish. So finish what you started, and look for motivation, use it to your benefit, and re-live the joy of holding that pose as your shots get closer and closer to your target.
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(Posted 8/24/2007 by admin) |
TEXAS HOLD'EM HIRING: DON'T GO ALL IN BEFORE YOU HAVE ALL YOUR CARDS!
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The best part of Texas Hold'em is you get to look at some of your cards before you bet. It's kind of like looking at the application and resume. If you don't like what you see, throw 'em away and wait for the next hand/applicant.
If you're willing to keep playing, you can usually get away with a pretty small wager to see "the flop," or schedule the interview.
After the flop/interview, a lot of players just fold their hands and wait for the next hand/applicant. If you think you have good cards/candidate you're willing to wager a little more.
You make a large wager (job offer, training, and development), but you still have no idea what kind of hand/employee you'll end up with.
Soon the honeymoon is over and you hope your new hire is now motivated and competent. If you hired a good candidate you're in good shape. But what if things aren't progressing? You could fold, but you've already invested too much to give up.
On "the turn" you dump a lot of money into re-training, evaluations, and coaching. If your lucky you end up with a mediocre hand/employee with your "river card." If you lose, the cost of turnover is estimated to be anywhere from .5 to 2.5 times the original offer.
Before you make an offer, wouldn't it be nice to know more about your candidate? Wouldn't you like to know if your candidate has integrity, and a strong work ethic; that they are not likely to steal from you; that they have an aversion to drug use, and they are reliable?
Wouldn't you like to know that your candidate has a similar Thinking Style, demonstrates the behaviors, and shares the Occupational Interests of your Top Performers?
Risky decisions are always easier when you have all the information.
Call today and schedule your free sample assessment.
413-726-9095
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(Posted 8/21/2007 by admin) |
TAKING INSANITY OUT OF THE HIRING PROCESS
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Insanity: Doing the same thing over and over, and expecting different results. I know, I know-You've heard it before. However, the fact remains, traditional hiring methods do not work-at least not consistently. In fact, some of the most comprehensive research ever done on the subject tells us that traditional hiring methods (I.e. application/resume, and interview) only lead to "good hires" 14% of the time. That means only 1 out of 7 people you hire are going to make you feel good about your decision.
That's not even good in baseball.
What makes this problem more devastating is the fact that one bad hire can easily have a negative affect on dozens of people -managers; coworkers; customers; and of course, you.
Despite all of this, we continue to use the same traditional methods of resume, plus interview, mixed with large portions of hope and guttural instincts when we hire the key people in our organization.
Let's get serious. I know it's not some great epiphany for you to hear that traditional methods don't work. We know they don't work, and we know why. Over 50% of all resumes are flawed, and one's ability to interview rarely translates to how well they perform on the job.
According to a recent study published in the Harvard Business Review, in which 360,000 people were studied over 20 years, the clearest indicator for job success was job match - not education, or degree, not prior work experience, and not interview skills.
We know this intuitively. Think about top performers throughout history. Many experienced more failure than success in their immediate past, and few found success in their chosen field of study.
Perhaps even your own life is an example. Does your whole life's work experience include Top Performances, or did you flourish when you found your match? Is your current success related to your degree?
I am not talking "dream job." There is more to it than what the candidates want. Successful people are successful because of the combination of three traits, and how that combination coincides with job requirements.
To determine job match we measure: Thinking Styles; Occupational Behavior; and Occupational Interests. How these three traits "match" against the requirements of a certain position will determine job success.
We can deliver the tools to you that will create a Job Match Pattern for your key positions that will be dead on target for your organization. How do I know? Because we measure your current Top performers.
This process is completely non-judgmental. I am not going to tell you how your people should think, behave, or what their interests should be. You have Top Performers, You want more people like them. Therefore, I will tell you how your Top Performers Think, Behave, and what their Occupational Interests are.
This new benchmark, added to the traditional hiring methods, takes the guesswork out. These tools generate reports that now give you direct verbiage for employment ads, job description, and recognition plans. Compare candidates to your Top Performers and see if they match.
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(Posted 8/21/2007 by admin) |
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Hire the Right People - Quick ROI "In a short time, the assessment we purchased from ProfilesInternational paid for itself because we hired the right people and didn't have to hire again and retrain. We like the ability to assess people without making them feel uncomfortable. Your tools provide great insight and allow me to put people in the right position."
- Dave LeBlanc, The Boiling Pot
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