You've heard the phrase "path of least resistance" right? Have you ever thought of what this means in the context of organizational culture? I believe culture to be the most critical issue we face as senior leaders. I also believe that organizational culture is something that's hard to define. It's easy to spot a healthy culture (or unhealthy culture for that matter) but it's difficult to define "culture" or to … [Read more...]
Consistency
The 8th Leadership Fundamental
I believe a good leader absolutely must be a consistent leader! Following through and doing what you say you are going to do is imperative. Why? What does it mean to be consistent as a leader? Does it mean inflexible or “not creative?” Does it mean that you are “set in your ways?” How can a leader do the things leaders are supposed to do –like “stir the pot” when things are too settled– and be consistent at the … [Read more...]
A “Customer Service” Culture
Transforming Organizational Culture Is Absolutely Necessary But A Very Difficult Thing To Do
I read a book a very long time ago that I was looking through again the other day. The book's name is The Nordstrom Way - The Inside Story of America's #1 Customer Service Company, written by Robert Spector and Patrick D. McCarthy. A couple of paragraphs from the first chapter caught my eye and reminded me why I got so much from this book so long ago. Read on ... Donald E. Peterson, the retired chairman of the … [Read more...]
Having Vision Is Not The Key When It Comes To Great Leadership
Some Thoughts On What Successful Leaders Do Well
I've said it many times. "Good leaders are very hard to find." What do I mean? People in leadership roles who get and practice leadership fundamentals, enabling the organization to accomplish its mission and realize the vision are few and far between. Why? I don't profess to know exactly, but I think it's mostly because it's hard. Good leadership usually requires "change." We all know how difficult it is to … [Read more...]