At nearly 300 pages, my next book entitled "My Mentor" will be in print!
It is an honor for me to share my experiences with an awesome person...my mentor...and friend!
I was moved to transpose many pages from my journals when I realized that what he had said...was more than just good advice to an aspiring leader...but eerily prophetic being more relevant now than when he gave it to me...nearly a quarter century ago!
With trepidation...I shared my manuscript with a few close friends and critics...and received nothing but glowing reviews!
I am hoping that you'll enjoy the book as much as I enjoyed returning to that time in my life...
may you not only learn something that may take you to the next level in leadership...but also help you become a better mentor to those who can benefit from your advice and direction...
What it takes to be a real 21st Century Leader and how to meet those challenges.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Friday, June 24, 2011
Leadership and Criminal Minds
Throughout all of history we have been plagued with "confidence men."
These are individuals that deceive people by making others believe that they are something that they really aren't...
These are people who appear to have others interests at the top of their priority list...when in fact...it is only smoke and mirrors...that hides the fact that they are only concerned with taking advantage of the person...
These crooks hide behind the image of a doctor, or an investment broker...or a teacher...or a consultant...and take trusting people for everything they have...
*******************************************
When you think of the the basic requirements of a leader...honesty and integrity seem to be "given" characteristics...
This means that if a person is recognized as a leader...they automatically possess those characteristics within their DNA and at the top of their priority list.
Shame on them...
Shame on us!
*******************************************
These are individuals that deceive people by making others believe that they are something that they really aren't...
These are people who appear to have others interests at the top of their priority list...when in fact...it is only smoke and mirrors...that hides the fact that they are only concerned with taking advantage of the person...
These crooks hide behind the image of a doctor, or an investment broker...or a teacher...or a consultant...and take trusting people for everything they have...
*******************************************
When you think of the the basic requirements of a leader...honesty and integrity seem to be "given" characteristics...
This means that if a person is recognized as a leader...they automatically possess those characteristics within their DNA and at the top of their priority list.
We automatically assume that if an individual rises to the top of an organization...they have consistently exhibited those characteristics...
Leaders who have criminal tendencies take advantage of the blind assumption (that they are honest and act with absolute integrity)...and steal us blind!
Lately this seems like it is no longer an exception...but a common behavior!
Shame on them...
Shame on us!
*******************************************
It appears that many leaders feel sheltered from their organization's illegal activities...and their very own!
They love the rewards but want no liability for their behavior!
They love the rewards but want no liability for their behavior!
We need to change this...
As customers...
As employees...
As stockholders...
As US and Global citizens...
No matter what you believe...it is us who ultimately pay for this...
The HUGE salaries and bonuses is your money...
The stock dividends are smaller than they could be...because these leaders banked the difference...
They are heroes to the shareholders and the investors "look the other way" as long as they get something out of their investments...
In the long run...these behaviors lead to failure...the stock or the company crashes...the shareholder cries foul...and the leader walks away with a BIG bank account because he or she sold his holdings before the crash!
*******************************************
When reality hits us, we go no further than making an excuse for our blindness and live in a word of "denial"...saying that "we didn't see that one coming..."
The fact of the matter is...all of the signs were there! Some are subtle...others jaded and others are outright blatant!
All we have to do is watch and listen...
Listen to their excuses...watch what they are doing!
Do they have a continuous playbook of excuses?
Are all of them pointing to someone other than themselves?
Are they selling off huge blocks of their stocks?
Are they trying to change laws rather than working within them?
Is the stock price the same this year as the past? Higher or lower?
Are they focused on improvement and expansion?
I could ask hundreds of leading questions...but the fact of the matter is...everyone should be continually asking these questions...in good times and in bad times...
Everyone should be demanding accountability of their leaders...in good times and bad times...
BUT...
You have a job...so you thank God and look the other way!
You got you dividend check...and you hear about your neighbor's loss and look the other way...
You are getting what you paid for...so you look the other way...
We can no longer afford to look the other way...
Diverting our attention from the present...has dire effect on the future...
If it is too good to be true...or more comfortable than you expected...or performing better than you ever dreamed...then it is important that you ask "WHY?" AND take that opportunity to stage the future for the better! It is our Quantum Obligation!
There is no such thing as "resting on your laurels!" A bed made of sprigs and twigs is not comfortable...no matter how thick you make it!
AND without roots...plants wither and rot!
What a cool parallel!
Organizational performance must be rooted...and in soil that favors their growth and prosperity...
The nutrients of organizational success include:
Honesty
Integrity
Fore-sight
Customer attentiveness
Ecological responsibility
A true leader and his/her organization is selfless...by definition...and is rewarded by acting that way...100% of the time!
The rewards of that trait includes longevity and a guilt-free sleep!
We can not afford to allow even the slightest hint of criminal behavior...
Criminal minds always show themselves in criminal activity...
Nothing remains hidden...
"As a man thinketh...so is he!"
As a leader thinks...it will show in his/her behavior and in his/her organization!
There is no differentiating an organization from its leader...
For employees...as is the organization...so too are you!
For that very reason...employees should be watchdogs...
Calling their leadership to accountability...
His/her reputation is also yours...
If you are comfortable with a "criminal mind" then read no further...
If you are not...
Take action!
Your focus on today will assist in ensuring that you have a future!
The same is true for shareholders and customers...
Your relationship makes you part of the problem or part of the solution...
What are you doing?
Are you asking question that will ensure that your dividends are deserved...and your pay-check stable?
Enough Said!
As customers...
As employees...
As stockholders...
As US and Global citizens...
No matter what you believe...it is us who ultimately pay for this...
The HUGE salaries and bonuses is your money...
The stock dividends are smaller than they could be...because these leaders banked the difference...
They are heroes to the shareholders and the investors "look the other way" as long as they get something out of their investments...
In the long run...these behaviors lead to failure...the stock or the company crashes...the shareholder cries foul...and the leader walks away with a BIG bank account because he or she sold his holdings before the crash!
*******************************************
When reality hits us, we go no further than making an excuse for our blindness and live in a word of "denial"...saying that "we didn't see that one coming..."
The fact of the matter is...all of the signs were there! Some are subtle...others jaded and others are outright blatant!
All we have to do is watch and listen...
Listen to their excuses...watch what they are doing!
Do they have a continuous playbook of excuses?
Are all of them pointing to someone other than themselves?
Are they selling off huge blocks of their stocks?
Are they trying to change laws rather than working within them?
Is the stock price the same this year as the past? Higher or lower?
Are they focused on improvement and expansion?
I could ask hundreds of leading questions...but the fact of the matter is...everyone should be continually asking these questions...in good times and in bad times...
Everyone should be demanding accountability of their leaders...in good times and bad times...
BUT...
You have a job...so you thank God and look the other way!
You got you dividend check...and you hear about your neighbor's loss and look the other way...
You are getting what you paid for...so you look the other way...
We can no longer afford to look the other way...
Diverting our attention from the present...has dire effect on the future...
If it is too good to be true...or more comfortable than you expected...or performing better than you ever dreamed...then it is important that you ask "WHY?" AND take that opportunity to stage the future for the better! It is our Quantum Obligation!
There is no such thing as "resting on your laurels!" A bed made of sprigs and twigs is not comfortable...no matter how thick you make it!
AND without roots...plants wither and rot!
What a cool parallel!
Organizational performance must be rooted...and in soil that favors their growth and prosperity...
The nutrients of organizational success include:
Honesty
Integrity
Fore-sight
Customer attentiveness
Ecological responsibility
A true leader and his/her organization is selfless...by definition...and is rewarded by acting that way...100% of the time!
The rewards of that trait includes longevity and a guilt-free sleep!
We can not afford to allow even the slightest hint of criminal behavior...
Criminal minds always show themselves in criminal activity...
Nothing remains hidden...
"As a man thinketh...so is he!"
As a leader thinks...it will show in his/her behavior and in his/her organization!
There is no differentiating an organization from its leader...
For employees...as is the organization...so too are you!
For that very reason...employees should be watchdogs...
Calling their leadership to accountability...
His/her reputation is also yours...
If you are comfortable with a "criminal mind" then read no further...
If you are not...
Take action!
Your focus on today will assist in ensuring that you have a future!
The same is true for shareholders and customers...
Your relationship makes you part of the problem or part of the solution...
What are you doing?
Are you asking question that will ensure that your dividends are deserved...and your pay-check stable?
Enough Said!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Leadership, Gamers and Lay-offs
Although this may have been more timely a couple of years ago, we are still feeling the aftershocks of the earthquake caused by the amassed organizational karma from the 20th century.
When will we learn that...
“Nothing is free?”
and...
Every gain has a price…
and...
Every misdeed is ultimately recognized and punished…
*****************************************
Being an effective 21st Century Leader requires a deep understanding of this concept and accepting…(actually demanding) full responsibility for every organizational outcome (something that I see very few leaders willing to do today).
*****************************************
Video Game development has become a HUGE industry.
It has become so popular that a social segment called "Gamers" has arisen...
In short, video games are a social phenomenon!
There is an interesting parallel between video games and reality that is important enough to note…
But before we go there…let’s go back about a quarter century to the infancy of gaming!
******************************************
The game that started it all...
Pong…
The simple video ping-pong game…
Pong and those games that followed, missed and important element…
RECOURSE…
HUH?
Video games became the venue in which crazy things could be tried without any threats or punishments for failure...
In a macabre way...
The game stick (commonly called a joy stick) or controller should have had electrodes embedded in them that gave the “loser” a huge and “potentially fatal” shock.
Why would I suggest such a drastic measure?
Let's look at what has happened with video games...
Over time...video games have gotten more and more real!
A gamer can steal cars...kill people...conquer countries...and more!
Over the course of a quarter century and these cool games...
We have subtly taught our future leaders (gamers) that there is no loss related to wrong decisions…
In fact, there is a spin-off industry nearly as big as the gaming industry…
It is the industry that identifies and sells “cheat-codes!”
We unwittingly allow our children to buy victory and send a message that it is OK to cheat to win!
In the "gamer" world...breaking the rules is OK!
Gamers are lauded if they know some obscure trick that lets them win! and…
I am afraid that they have transferred (through our apathy) that same attitude to their real lives!
******************************************
Think of how different it would be that if a gamer lost a game of “pong” and it cost them $250,000?
Or…they lost their girlfriend or boyfriend…
Or their best friends immediately died?
Or…they had to declare bankruptcy…or lost their car or their home?
Or they lost their video game system...
couldn't eat...
got sick...and couldn't afford a doctor
or worse...they died?
Extreme?
…YES!
Because "Leadership" is not a game…
Yet many leaders act as if it is!
They feel sheltered from recourse…that ANY mistake simply means a “system reset” or a start-over!
Other leaders act as if they live in the world of “cheat-codes”
Behaving as if it is OK to bend the rules to win the game…
And we support by lauding their prowess!
Just like the gamers bow to the cheats in their society!
Many leaders act as if they have no stake in the business game!
They are shielded by attornies and plausible deniability!
Could it be that they equate reality with gaming?
*******************************************
21st century leaders and those who aspire to real leadership success have to separate fiction from reality!
That separation is found in their taking responsibility and accepting the recourse for their actions and decisions…
Leaders who build an organization…add hundreds of people and then have to lay them off for any reason other than “an act of God” should reap the same recourse as those people who trusted them enough to take the job and the his or her empty promises!
21st century leaders have to recognize that there is no success when “cheat codes” are used.
Or when they push the legal limits...
Or take advantage of legal loop-holes...
That kind of stuff is a 19th and perhaps 20th behavior, but not that of today!
If one aspires to be a 21st century leader, they should step forward and take the consequences for every decision…not hide behind the statement “I am not going to be thrown under this bus!”
If jail is a component of the risk related to the reward…then take it…just like you took the money!
Business is not a game!
“No replays”
“No resets”
“No cheat codes”
Big Rewards has BIG RISK...the shock and awe that comes with the "jolt" of reality!
*****************************************
All Leaders play with the lives of hundreds of people at stake.
They want to reap rewards and have no responsibility for loss!
If you are one that disagree with this…then it is time to assess your position as a leader…
Step up to the challenge or step down!
If you are a stockholder or an expendable worker...demand that your leadership steps up!
Our world will be better if we demand that from them!
********************************************
“Employment at will” is a two way street…if you are a leader and promised employment…then provide it!
A lay-off is a leadership failure...the leader should be the first to go...
That termination will have the biggest bang for the buck...
Leaders are a "dime a dozen"...they can be replaced! Just like everyone else that does get laid-off!
Let me qualify that previous thought...employment is not a lifetime guarantee!
A worker should be terminated if they broke some ethical or moral rule…
Hmmmmm…isn’t lying unethical?
Like lying to the Board of Directors...or one's employees?
Leaders who build huge corporations and then dissolve it…have lied to "the Board" and their people!
Their poor judgment and short-sightedness or self-centeredness not to mention their incompetency is grounds for termination…yet…it is the leaders who remain and the innocent who are asked to leave at a moment’s notice!
******************************************
How do we put the icing on this cake?
There is nothing sweet about what we have become!
I have a tendency to believe that we are not products of our video games…but that our video games are products of our basic social values and belief system…
Game have their place…but they are not real!
I would love nothing more than to attach a stun gun to the "joy stick"…and turn it into a "reality stick!"
It makes a Wii into a WHOA!
We need to realize that there is no “joy” without the risk of “pain!”
Step up and be a 21st century leader!
Pura Vida
When will we learn that...
“Nothing is free?”
and...
Every gain has a price…
and...
Every misdeed is ultimately recognized and punished…
*****************************************
Being an effective 21st Century Leader requires a deep understanding of this concept and accepting…(actually demanding) full responsibility for every organizational outcome (something that I see very few leaders willing to do today).
*****************************************
Let’s shift gears for a moment and contemplate a huge injustice that we unwittingly bestowed upon our children…
VIDEO GAMES…
VIDEO GAMES…
Video Game development has become a HUGE industry.
It has become so popular that a social segment called "Gamers" has arisen...
In short, video games are a social phenomenon!
There is an interesting parallel between video games and reality that is important enough to note…
But before we go there…let’s go back about a quarter century to the infancy of gaming!
******************************************
The game that started it all...
Pong…
The simple video ping-pong game…
Pong and those games that followed, missed and important element…
RECOURSE…
HUH?
Video games became the venue in which crazy things could be tried without any threats or punishments for failure...
In a macabre way...
The game stick (commonly called a joy stick) or controller should have had electrodes embedded in them that gave the “loser” a huge and “potentially fatal” shock.
Why would I suggest such a drastic measure?
Let's look at what has happened with video games...
Over time...video games have gotten more and more real!
A gamer can steal cars...kill people...conquer countries...and more!
Over the course of a quarter century and these cool games...
We have subtly taught our future leaders (gamers) that there is no loss related to wrong decisions…
In fact, there is a spin-off industry nearly as big as the gaming industry…
It is the industry that identifies and sells “cheat-codes!”
We unwittingly allow our children to buy victory and send a message that it is OK to cheat to win!
In the "gamer" world...breaking the rules is OK!
Gamers are lauded if they know some obscure trick that lets them win! and…
I am afraid that they have transferred (through our apathy) that same attitude to their real lives!
******************************************
Think of how different it would be that if a gamer lost a game of “pong” and it cost them $250,000?
Or…they lost their girlfriend or boyfriend…
Or their best friends immediately died?
Or…they had to declare bankruptcy…or lost their car or their home?
Or they lost their video game system...
couldn't eat...
got sick...and couldn't afford a doctor
or worse...they died?
Extreme?
…YES!
Why would I take such a position?
Because "Leadership" is not a game…
Yet many leaders act as if it is!
They feel sheltered from recourse…that ANY mistake simply means a “system reset” or a start-over!
Other leaders act as if they live in the world of “cheat-codes”
Behaving as if it is OK to bend the rules to win the game…
And we support by lauding their prowess!
Just like the gamers bow to the cheats in their society!
Many leaders act as if they have no stake in the business game!
They are shielded by attornies and plausible deniability!
Could it be that they equate reality with gaming?
*******************************************
21st century leaders and those who aspire to real leadership success have to separate fiction from reality!
That separation is found in their taking responsibility and accepting the recourse for their actions and decisions…
Leaders who build an organization…add hundreds of people and then have to lay them off for any reason other than “an act of God” should reap the same recourse as those people who trusted them enough to take the job and the his or her empty promises!
21st century leaders have to recognize that there is no success when “cheat codes” are used.
Or when they push the legal limits...
Or take advantage of legal loop-holes...
That kind of stuff is a 19th and perhaps 20th behavior, but not that of today!
If one aspires to be a 21st century leader, they should step forward and take the consequences for every decision…not hide behind the statement “I am not going to be thrown under this bus!”
If jail is a component of the risk related to the reward…then take it…just like you took the money!
Business is not a game!
“No replays”
“No resets”
“No cheat codes”
Big Rewards has BIG RISK...the shock and awe that comes with the "jolt" of reality!
*****************************************
All Leaders play with the lives of hundreds of people at stake.
They want to reap rewards and have no responsibility for loss!
If you are one that disagree with this…then it is time to assess your position as a leader…
Step up to the challenge or step down!
If you are a stockholder or an expendable worker...demand that your leadership steps up!
Our world will be better if we demand that from them!
********************************************
“Employment at will” is a two way street…if you are a leader and promised employment…then provide it!
A lay-off is a leadership failure...the leader should be the first to go...
That termination will have the biggest bang for the buck...
Leaders are a "dime a dozen"...they can be replaced! Just like everyone else that does get laid-off!
Let me qualify that previous thought...employment is not a lifetime guarantee!
A worker should be terminated if they broke some ethical or moral rule…
Hmmmmm…isn’t lying unethical?
Like lying to the Board of Directors...or one's employees?
Leaders who build huge corporations and then dissolve it…have lied to "the Board" and their people!
Their poor judgment and short-sightedness or self-centeredness not to mention their incompetency is grounds for termination…yet…it is the leaders who remain and the innocent who are asked to leave at a moment’s notice!
******************************************
How do we put the icing on this cake?
There is nothing sweet about what we have become!
I have a tendency to believe that we are not products of our video games…but that our video games are products of our basic social values and belief system…
Game have their place…but they are not real!
I would love nothing more than to attach a stun gun to the "joy stick"…and turn it into a "reality stick!"
It makes a Wii into a WHOA!
We need to realize that there is no “joy” without the risk of “pain!”
Step up and be a 21st century leader!
Pura Vida
Sunday, May 8, 2011
"I wasn't aware" ISN'T an Excuse!
The role of a leader in the 21st century is to maintain overall organizational performance and to "shift" that performance in an ever-improving direction.
Some 20th century leaders were good at:
1 - "castle building"
2 - "trouble shooting"
3 - "maintaining status quo"
The 21st century demands leaders capable of all three of those characteristics...
Let's look a bit deeper into those three...
Characteristic #1 could be called a "visionary"
Characteristic #2 could be called an "analyst"
Characteristic #3 could be called a "manager"
It is the combination and active presence of those three characteristics that make an individual a leader...not one or two...ALL THREE!
If an individual possesses #3 and is not effective with the other two...he/she is a manager...
If a person possesses #2 and #3 but lacks vision...leadership is still not present...
********************************************
I have personally watched many organizations schedule a majority of their meetings focused entirely on budget performance (the "missed your goals" side), and negative performance reviews...
This is the analytical side of leadership...
They totally neglect the stabilizing efforts (managing)...
And...
Do not have time to grow the business...(visionary)...
If an individual lays claim to leading an organization...they are admitting that they have full responsibility for the losses, the stability and the growth...
Leaders can not claim to that they were unaware of what was going on under "their watch" because they were distracted by work in another area...
"I was blind-sided! I didn't realize...that my business was failing in that important sector...because I was focused on sales in this new area..."
This is an admission of incompetence!
"I didn't know that illegal activity was going on! Our company was growing fast and I left well enough alone..."
You get the picture!
A 21st century leader must be involved in three important activities...
1 - The things that are hurting or will hurt the company must be stopped...(the left side of the curve)
2 - Holding on to what the organization has...(the middle of the curve)
3 - Repeating the fleeting successes...(the right side of the curve)
Even a 20th century leader can not "plausibly deny" he or she was not aware of bad things happening in his or her organization...or say that they didn't know why great things were happening...that is pure insanity if they think that we'll believe it!
AND IF IT IS TRUE...
They really shouldn't be leading a company...
*********************************************
If you aspire to be a leader...you need to hone all three of those skills...
You must be an analyst, a manager and a visionary!
The 21st century is demanding that...
Some 20th century leaders were good at:
1 - "castle building"
2 - "trouble shooting"
3 - "maintaining status quo"
The 21st century demands leaders capable of all three of those characteristics...
Let's look a bit deeper into those three...
Characteristic #1 could be called a "visionary"
Characteristic #2 could be called an "analyst"
Characteristic #3 could be called a "manager"
It is the combination and active presence of those three characteristics that make an individual a leader...not one or two...ALL THREE!
If an individual possesses #3 and is not effective with the other two...he/she is a manager...
If a person possesses #2 and #3 but lacks vision...leadership is still not present...
********************************************
I have personally watched many organizations schedule a majority of their meetings focused entirely on budget performance (the "missed your goals" side), and negative performance reviews...
This is the analytical side of leadership...
They totally neglect the stabilizing efforts (managing)...
And...
Do not have time to grow the business...(visionary)...
If an individual lays claim to leading an organization...they are admitting that they have full responsibility for the losses, the stability and the growth...
Leaders can not claim to that they were unaware of what was going on under "their watch" because they were distracted by work in another area...
"I was blind-sided! I didn't realize...that my business was failing in that important sector...because I was focused on sales in this new area..."
This is an admission of incompetence!
"I didn't know that illegal activity was going on! Our company was growing fast and I left well enough alone..."
You get the picture!
A 21st century leader must be involved in three important activities...
1 - The things that are hurting or will hurt the company must be stopped...(the left side of the curve)
2 - Holding on to what the organization has...(the middle of the curve)
3 - Repeating the fleeting successes...(the right side of the curve)
Even a 20th century leader can not "plausibly deny" he or she was not aware of bad things happening in his or her organization...or say that they didn't know why great things were happening...that is pure insanity if they think that we'll believe it!
AND IF IT IS TRUE...
They really shouldn't be leading a company...
*********************************************
If you aspire to be a leader...you need to hone all three of those skills...
You must be an analyst, a manager and a visionary!
The 21st century is demanding that...
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Leadership and the Higher Standard
The ongoing saga of "for-profit" education within our society is a constant reminder of a critical characteristic of true leadership that we often avoid addressing...
The "HIGHER" standard...
I believe that "for-profit" education could serve our society in ways that traditional education can not. It has a place...but that place can only be held if it meets specific basic criteria...one of them being...
The "HIGHER" standard...
An oft accepted (a "given") precept in the educational arena is that an institution of higher learning is its integrity, ethics and moral standards...that is a piece of higher education that we just believe every school has...because they are a member of that elite group...
Couple this with accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) or some other college accrediting body and we should not have to question their motives or intent, in the least...
I am saddened by the fact that the Federal Government had to waste money in sting operations...and even more saddened that they caught many schools in violation of some of the most simple "no-brainer" laws! They did AND at an alarming proportion to the total number checked!
If I were the accrediting body of these schools...I would be reeling from a black-eye! I would immediately be pulling my affiliation with them...it is my reputation that is being hurt...and ultimately I would be suing them for their actions...my credibility is being hurt! That stinks! They were duped into believing that these schools held to the "HIGHER" standard! These bodies must hold these schools accountable to the "HIGHER" standard...and act accordingly...
Some of these institutions are owned by companies that even have a "HIGHER" standard of responsibility...morality and ethics...If I were a Board member of the parent company or even a stockholder...I would be reeling from the black-eye that they have given me...and responding accordingly with the people running those educational units...do these companies have rules that indicate immediate termination for individuals participating in illegal activities? Many of these institutions do extensive background checks to weed out individuals who could tarnish the organization's image....or put them at risk...but once in...it appears that an individual has free-reign to pursue some pretty bad things...If that is not the case...show us the terminations? Not at the lowest level...but at the leadership level...the people who have ultimate responsibility yet hide behind excuses of abdication or distraction...
What has bothered me has been the numerous articles that are appearing where wrong-doing has been admitted...and some semblance guilt admitted to...but the blame is put on the Market...or the Federal Government for making the money easy to get and the lack of control...that is no excuse...it is like a teenager admitting to shoplifting and blaming it on his mother for not catching him when he was still in the store and not making him put it back!
There comes a time that accountability and responsibility must be taken by leadership...This is another Enron...S-OX is in place and these corporation signed annual documents ensuring truth and honesty..."I didn't know" and "If I did" is no excuse...you do now and what have you done?
Even if the Federal Government's laws were loose...an institution of higher education should be thankful and adhere to the"HIGHER" standard...as a matter of course...
I have ranted enough...I think you get the picture...this is not about "for-profit" education...I just cite this as an example...
So what is the "HIGHER" standard?
The answer is simple...and most leaders have yet to grasp it!
An organization that I worked for long ago recognized that rules take on two separate forms...the law's "intent" and its "content." This company called it "the Letter and the Spirit." It was the most awesome program! Annually they required their employees to sign a document in which they renewed their vow to adhere to both the "Letter and the Spirit" of every internal and external rule and regulation...for me it was almost a mystical experience! It made me think and question my every decision and motive...and I think it did for many others also...
This company slowly and systematically built great leaders...individuals who had instilled in their DNA, the "Letter" of the law and the "Spirit" of its intent...these leaders ALWAYS played by the rules and could be expected to work with the highest level of integrity and honesty...in short order there was no reason to question the legality of a leader's behavior in this organization...it was simply the way they did business...
21st century leaders must have this characteristic...the "HIGHER" standard...the "Letter and the Spirit" ingrained in their behavior...
If they do not...the view from their corner office will be through bars!
Special interest groups and lobbying for relief...will no longer carry the clout that they did in the past...public opinion and the Internet will not allow to happen...if a law is not created to control them...the market will...
Profits may be optimized by running on that thin line between legality and illegal activity...but survivability comes to those organizations that put a buffer between their activities and letter of the law...this is where the Spirit of the law's intent resides...21st century leadership lives in the world of the Spirit...not the letter!
21st century leaders will recognize that Darwin is about to be proven true by the "Letter and the Spirit." In a world where the strong survive...the weakness must be shown to be that lack of integrity...pushing profitability at the risk of being caught. There is no longer the excuse of plausible deniability...
A 21st century leader and ultimately a 21st century organization must withhold immediate gratification of higher profits and hold itself to the "HIGHER" standard...in order to survive...
No excuses...no finger pointing...no blame...lives in a world where the spirit of the law is followed...
The funny thing is that this was the intent of our Founding Fathers. It was true 200+ years ago and it still holds true today!
The "bottom line" of 21st century leadership begins with a foundation of "the "Letter and the Spirit."
The "HIGHER" standard...
I believe that "for-profit" education could serve our society in ways that traditional education can not. It has a place...but that place can only be held if it meets specific basic criteria...one of them being...
The "HIGHER" standard...
An oft accepted (a "given") precept in the educational arena is that an institution of higher learning is its integrity, ethics and moral standards...that is a piece of higher education that we just believe every school has...because they are a member of that elite group...
Couple this with accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) or some other college accrediting body and we should not have to question their motives or intent, in the least...
I am saddened by the fact that the Federal Government had to waste money in sting operations...and even more saddened that they caught many schools in violation of some of the most simple "no-brainer" laws! They did AND at an alarming proportion to the total number checked!
If I were the accrediting body of these schools...I would be reeling from a black-eye! I would immediately be pulling my affiliation with them...it is my reputation that is being hurt...and ultimately I would be suing them for their actions...my credibility is being hurt! That stinks! They were duped into believing that these schools held to the "HIGHER" standard! These bodies must hold these schools accountable to the "HIGHER" standard...and act accordingly...
Some of these institutions are owned by companies that even have a "HIGHER" standard of responsibility...morality and ethics...If I were a Board member of the parent company or even a stockholder...I would be reeling from the black-eye that they have given me...and responding accordingly with the people running those educational units...do these companies have rules that indicate immediate termination for individuals participating in illegal activities? Many of these institutions do extensive background checks to weed out individuals who could tarnish the organization's image....or put them at risk...but once in...it appears that an individual has free-reign to pursue some pretty bad things...If that is not the case...show us the terminations? Not at the lowest level...but at the leadership level...the people who have ultimate responsibility yet hide behind excuses of abdication or distraction...
What has bothered me has been the numerous articles that are appearing where wrong-doing has been admitted...and some semblance guilt admitted to...but the blame is put on the Market...or the Federal Government for making the money easy to get and the lack of control...that is no excuse...it is like a teenager admitting to shoplifting and blaming it on his mother for not catching him when he was still in the store and not making him put it back!
There comes a time that accountability and responsibility must be taken by leadership...This is another Enron...S-OX is in place and these corporation signed annual documents ensuring truth and honesty..."I didn't know" and "If I did" is no excuse...you do now and what have you done?
Even if the Federal Government's laws were loose...an institution of higher education should be thankful and adhere to the"HIGHER" standard...as a matter of course...
I have ranted enough...I think you get the picture...this is not about "for-profit" education...I just cite this as an example...
So what is the "HIGHER" standard?
The answer is simple...and most leaders have yet to grasp it!
An organization that I worked for long ago recognized that rules take on two separate forms...the law's "intent" and its "content." This company called it "the Letter and the Spirit." It was the most awesome program! Annually they required their employees to sign a document in which they renewed their vow to adhere to both the "Letter and the Spirit" of every internal and external rule and regulation...for me it was almost a mystical experience! It made me think and question my every decision and motive...and I think it did for many others also...
This company slowly and systematically built great leaders...individuals who had instilled in their DNA, the "Letter" of the law and the "Spirit" of its intent...these leaders ALWAYS played by the rules and could be expected to work with the highest level of integrity and honesty...in short order there was no reason to question the legality of a leader's behavior in this organization...it was simply the way they did business...
21st century leaders must have this characteristic...the "HIGHER" standard...the "Letter and the Spirit" ingrained in their behavior...
If they do not...the view from their corner office will be through bars!
Special interest groups and lobbying for relief...will no longer carry the clout that they did in the past...public opinion and the Internet will not allow to happen...if a law is not created to control them...the market will...
Profits may be optimized by running on that thin line between legality and illegal activity...but survivability comes to those organizations that put a buffer between their activities and letter of the law...this is where the Spirit of the law's intent resides...21st century leadership lives in the world of the Spirit...not the letter!
21st century leaders will recognize that Darwin is about to be proven true by the "Letter and the Spirit." In a world where the strong survive...the weakness must be shown to be that lack of integrity...pushing profitability at the risk of being caught. There is no longer the excuse of plausible deniability...
A 21st century leader and ultimately a 21st century organization must withhold immediate gratification of higher profits and hold itself to the "HIGHER" standard...in order to survive...
No excuses...no finger pointing...no blame...lives in a world where the spirit of the law is followed...
The funny thing is that this was the intent of our Founding Fathers. It was true 200+ years ago and it still holds true today!
The "bottom line" of 21st century leadership begins with a foundation of "the "Letter and the Spirit."
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Lest we Forget...
Joan Didion is quoted saying..."We forget all too soon the things we thought we could never forget..."
There is a lesson for those who strive to be great leaders! Anyone who aspires to leadership...or...wishes to retain their position of leadership, they must hold this foundational tenet and adhere to it with absolute integrity...
Leaders often overlook it...but it will play an important role in 21st Century organizational survival!
Simply stated...It is...how to perceive and treat those who they depend upon the most...
Customers...Markets...and Employees...
This needs to be combined with the following facts...
First...that there are some acts that are unforgivable...and...
Second...that people are not stupid!
******************************************
When will the abuse end?
One of my favorite personal quotes is "history will repeat itself...until we learn the lessons that it is trying to teach us..."
I am frustrated by the vicious circle that has been created within this organizational arena...and worry that unless the more intelligent of the two players...does not step up and take action...this circle will turn into a spiral...
...A death spiral!
******************************************
The Arena
...is our capitalistic society...
...Which is comprised of markets (groups or segments of the society with similar needs and a propensity to buy a good or service in order to meet that need)...
...Which is, by definition, comprised of individuals (citizens of the society)...
Each member of the segment or even the society are related by the behaviors and ideals...
It technically...makes within each market segment and ultimately the society, a brother and sister (a family member)...
Having said this...
We have set the stage for this drama...
That is...
Unless you are in some obscure part of this world...and...do not work for an organization that sells products or services...and...buys nothing...
Otherwise...
you are a player in this drama...
The message is...whether leader or customer...this concept applies to you!
You are one or the other...and both! Isn't that interesting?
*****************************************
The Situtation
I am insulted buy the arrogance of many organizations...
Perhaps a better way to explain my reactions (and this is not purely emotional...but logical) is that through organizations behaviors...they very subtly convey a message of how little they really think of us...our markets...our society...or our abilities...
There is a total disregard for the (real) long-term impact of their actions...as long as they profit...
Their behaviors are such that they indicate that they believe that they are given license to do whatever they please...and ask for forgiveness later...
...or...
That they think that we have no alternatives to them and we are captive...so it doesn't matter...
...or...
That we are so greedy...that we'll give them a "free-pass"...and forget what they did to us
...or...
That we are so ignorant that we do not realize what they are really doing...and forget what they did to us...
...or...
That our memories are so short term...that if they can weather the bad press...and that we'll forget what they did to us...
...or...
That if they can divert our attention...and we'll forget what they did to us...
I could cite many more observations...and potential conclusions...but...
I hope that you are getting what their behaviors indicate as their perception of us as market segments and consumers (customers)...and a society...
****************************************
Our Role
It is said that "forgiveness is a virtue..."
There are some behaviors that are simply unforgivable...
Forgiveness of those acts is simply ignorance and stupidity...
As discerning customers and family members...we have the right to decide when to cut organizations slack and forgive them and when not to...
I watch as great injustices and violations are done to our family (society) by major corporations...
All because they think so little of us...and so much of profits!
When they do get caught...they believe that with a bit a positive advertising...they think that we'll forget...
...or...
They go on a overused campaign saying that it is a few disgruntled employees or customers...
It is like someone raping your sister...and when confronted they simply say..."Look over there...a bird!" and we forget that they committed a crime!
Lest we forget!
*****************************************
Have you REALLY Noticed?
Some major travesties have been committed by HUGE organizations and I am watching their campaigns...so are you!
Because of the arrogance of one company's executive and its focus on profits...they have refused to admit to major safety issues with their automobiles...
Another cut corners on off-shore drilling and polluted the gulf of Mexico...
Both got caught! But they haven't fully reaped the punishment that they deserve...
We need to close the door to our family...
Would you open the door again to someone who raped or killed your sister?
I am not that stupid...and do not forget...
We don't need that brand of car...
We don't need that brand of fuel...
We have to realize that we have the ultimate power...
Simply stop buying...
We do not need government controls or regulations...
The message can simply be sent by saying...I refuse to buy your product or service...
People in this society depend on the government to build controls and enforce them...that is wrong!
It is our responsibility to establish and enforce the rules of engagement through our purchasing of goods and services...
****************************************
The Question Remains...
What are unforgivable sins against our family?
That is simple...
When a company knowingly circumvents a known safety regulation to make a profit...
When a company puts one of our family members in harms way to make a profit...
When a company bends the rules or interprets it to their advantage...
When a company hurts our environment...
When a company knowingly takes taxpayers' money that it doesn't deserve...
When a company misrepresents itself to gain market confidence...
and the list goes on...
The gist of the list....(It rhymes!) is that when it thinks our family is ignorant and uses that perception to make a profit!
Oil Spills?
Car safety issue cover-ups?
Stop buying that fuel! Send a message that they are not welcome in our midst any longer...
Stop buying that brand of automobiles! How can you trust them?
****************************************
It is up to you AND us!
I suggest that any time you stop for gas....you think of what they think of you...
If you are not insulted...go ahead and buy it...they were right!
Buy one of those cars? go ahead and buy it...they were right!
and the list of rapists and murders is long!
Step up and defend your family's honor!
Remember the great injustices done to our society by major corporations...every time you see one of those commercials with that positive advertising spin...they think that we'll forget...
What does this have to do with 21st Century Leadership?
This commentary points to the need for members of the 21st century to step up and take responsibility for the present and future of our society. We need to be leaders and protectors of our present AND our future...using what we have to ensure the greatest chances of survival...
We can not sacrifice our future for the sake of immediate gratification...
Isolation and self-centeredness can not be tolerated...
Neither can abdication to governmental entities...
Our role and responsibility is to control the world through an untapped strength that unity provides...
Our society ultimately controls the destiny of any corporation through our behavior...
Some may say that this is simply a "boycott" It is not...a boycott assumes (and evens promises) that we will ultimately forgive and forget...if the offender makes reparations...
Boycotts are not the answer any longer...there is no proof that they still do not think of us as fools!
We need to simply and for all time...turn off the flow of money to them...
We need to exercise that influence with a bias towards the benefit of the society on a whole and not be deluded by advertising...marketing or even our own desire for convenience!
If we stop buying "their gas" or "their cars" or using "their services" and broken promises...they will quickly whither and die!
The others will get the message that we are not a tolerant society...and more important...we do not forget!
Enough said...it is now in your hands!
Act responsibly!
There is a lesson for those who strive to be great leaders! Anyone who aspires to leadership...or...wishes to retain their position of leadership, they must hold this foundational tenet and adhere to it with absolute integrity...
Leaders often overlook it...but it will play an important role in 21st Century organizational survival!
Simply stated...It is...how to perceive and treat those who they depend upon the most...
Customers...Markets...and Employees...
This needs to be combined with the following facts...
First...that there are some acts that are unforgivable...and...
Second...that people are not stupid!
******************************************
When will the abuse end?
One of my favorite personal quotes is "history will repeat itself...until we learn the lessons that it is trying to teach us..."
I am frustrated by the vicious circle that has been created within this organizational arena...and worry that unless the more intelligent of the two players...does not step up and take action...this circle will turn into a spiral...
...A death spiral!
******************************************
The Arena
...is our capitalistic society...
...Which is comprised of markets (groups or segments of the society with similar needs and a propensity to buy a good or service in order to meet that need)...
...Which is, by definition, comprised of individuals (citizens of the society)...
Each member of the segment or even the society are related by the behaviors and ideals...
It technically...makes within each market segment and ultimately the society, a brother and sister (a family member)...
Having said this...
We have set the stage for this drama...
That is...
Unless you are in some obscure part of this world...and...do not work for an organization that sells products or services...and...buys nothing...
Otherwise...
you are a player in this drama...
The message is...whether leader or customer...this concept applies to you!
You are one or the other...and both! Isn't that interesting?
*****************************************
The Situtation
I am insulted buy the arrogance of many organizations...
Perhaps a better way to explain my reactions (and this is not purely emotional...but logical) is that through organizations behaviors...they very subtly convey a message of how little they really think of us...our markets...our society...or our abilities...
There is a total disregard for the (real) long-term impact of their actions...as long as they profit...
Their behaviors are such that they indicate that they believe that they are given license to do whatever they please...and ask for forgiveness later...
...or...
That they think that we have no alternatives to them and we are captive...so it doesn't matter...
...or...
That we are so greedy...that we'll give them a "free-pass"...and forget what they did to us
...or...
That we are so ignorant that we do not realize what they are really doing...and forget what they did to us...
...or...
That our memories are so short term...that if they can weather the bad press...and that we'll forget what they did to us...
...or...
That if they can divert our attention...and we'll forget what they did to us...
I could cite many more observations...and potential conclusions...but...
I hope that you are getting what their behaviors indicate as their perception of us as market segments and consumers (customers)...and a society...
****************************************
Our Role
It is said that "forgiveness is a virtue..."
There are some behaviors that are simply unforgivable...
Forgiveness of those acts is simply ignorance and stupidity...
As discerning customers and family members...we have the right to decide when to cut organizations slack and forgive them and when not to...
I watch as great injustices and violations are done to our family (society) by major corporations...
All because they think so little of us...and so much of profits!
When they do get caught...they believe that with a bit a positive advertising...they think that we'll forget...
...or...
They go on a overused campaign saying that it is a few disgruntled employees or customers...
It is like someone raping your sister...and when confronted they simply say..."Look over there...a bird!" and we forget that they committed a crime!
Lest we forget!
*****************************************
Have you REALLY Noticed?
Some major travesties have been committed by HUGE organizations and I am watching their campaigns...so are you!
Because of the arrogance of one company's executive and its focus on profits...they have refused to admit to major safety issues with their automobiles...
Another cut corners on off-shore drilling and polluted the gulf of Mexico...
Both got caught! But they haven't fully reaped the punishment that they deserve...
We need to close the door to our family...
Would you open the door again to someone who raped or killed your sister?
I am not that stupid...and do not forget...
We don't need that brand of car...
We don't need that brand of fuel...
We have to realize that we have the ultimate power...
Simply stop buying...
We do not need government controls or regulations...
The message can simply be sent by saying...I refuse to buy your product or service...
People in this society depend on the government to build controls and enforce them...that is wrong!
It is our responsibility to establish and enforce the rules of engagement through our purchasing of goods and services...
****************************************
The Question Remains...
What are unforgivable sins against our family?
That is simple...
When a company knowingly circumvents a known safety regulation to make a profit...
When a company puts one of our family members in harms way to make a profit...
When a company bends the rules or interprets it to their advantage...
When a company hurts our environment...
When a company knowingly takes taxpayers' money that it doesn't deserve...
When a company misrepresents itself to gain market confidence...
and the list goes on...
The gist of the list....(It rhymes!) is that when it thinks our family is ignorant and uses that perception to make a profit!
Oil Spills?
Car safety issue cover-ups?
Stop buying that fuel! Send a message that they are not welcome in our midst any longer...
Stop buying that brand of automobiles! How can you trust them?
****************************************
It is up to you AND us!
I suggest that any time you stop for gas....you think of what they think of you...
If you are not insulted...go ahead and buy it...they were right!
Buy one of those cars? go ahead and buy it...they were right!
and the list of rapists and murders is long!
Step up and defend your family's honor!
Remember the great injustices done to our society by major corporations...every time you see one of those commercials with that positive advertising spin...they think that we'll forget...
What does this have to do with 21st Century Leadership?
This commentary points to the need for members of the 21st century to step up and take responsibility for the present and future of our society. We need to be leaders and protectors of our present AND our future...using what we have to ensure the greatest chances of survival...
We can not sacrifice our future for the sake of immediate gratification...
Isolation and self-centeredness can not be tolerated...
Neither can abdication to governmental entities...
Our role and responsibility is to control the world through an untapped strength that unity provides...
Our society ultimately controls the destiny of any corporation through our behavior...
Some may say that this is simply a "boycott" It is not...a boycott assumes (and evens promises) that we will ultimately forgive and forget...if the offender makes reparations...
Boycotts are not the answer any longer...there is no proof that they still do not think of us as fools!
We need to simply and for all time...turn off the flow of money to them...
We need to exercise that influence with a bias towards the benefit of the society on a whole and not be deluded by advertising...marketing or even our own desire for convenience!
If we stop buying "their gas" or "their cars" or using "their services" and broken promises...they will quickly whither and die!
The others will get the message that we are not a tolerant society...and more important...we do not forget!
Enough said...it is now in your hands!
Act responsibly!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Leadership and Loyalty
As I reviewed the characteristics of the great leaders throughout history...I found that most if not all demanded "loyalty" form those that they kept within their "circle. The interesting thing about this commonality was (is) that it is VERY apparent...
It is such a visible characteristic...that wanna-be leaders emulate this without knowing the real secret!
Many poor leaders demand loyalty not only because it appears that it is the thing to do...but because they are incompetent! Disloyal "circle members" pose a threat to their livelihood and success...
I have watch many "TOTALLY" incompetent leaders fire subordinates because they rightly pointed out major breaches in a leader's competency...
This is a bastardization of the true concept of loyalty and behaviors such as the one previously mentioned is one of the few instances where I truly believe in an "eye for an eye!"
If loyalty is not an unquestioning and selfless support of another...what is it?
The Great Leaders did demand loyalty...
They however recognized that loyalty is a fragile animal!
They also recognized that loyalty can not be required but is earned...and cultivated...
At any moment...a breach in one's character and integrity could effectively destroy any semblance of loyalty...
The demand for loyalty in reality was not a requirement for their followers...but a commitment to extraordinary behavior on their part...which earned unwavering loyalty!
If a follower had a criticism...a great leader took it to heart...realizing that it was true...
A great leader NEVER sought retaliation for any behavior that challenged the behaviors or decisions...
A great leader realized that if the individual was right...they either deserved the ramifications related to the breach...or they took the opportunity to improve.
Those who lacked this integrity and insight...are not leaders...but are no more valuable than the primordial slime from which their ancient ancestors arose!
Great leaders either met the challenge...changed the behavior...or stepped down!
Most pseudo-leaders today...spend most of their time defending their territory...and their reputation...
It is because of insecurity, incompetence...and laziness!
Some just plain do not know or understand the real ramifications of a demand for loyalty!
Most would be better off...not demanding it...
But they think they have to be like the real leaders...
I believe that most of these pseudo-leaders will never learn this lesson...
I hope that organizations begin to recognize this and take the right actions...
Many innocent employees have been hurt by those terrible leaders...
Companies have lost individuals who had much higher ethics, morals and more regard for the company's well being than the incompetent person who fired them!
I have ranted enough for one blog...
A demand for loyalty is a commitment to personal excellence...that those from which loyalty is demanded is truly nothing more than a by-product...only a fool would not be committed to someone like that!
Anything other than that...is deception...
The question that you must ask yourself...
Are you a real leader...or...
A liar?
It is such a visible characteristic...that wanna-be leaders emulate this without knowing the real secret!
Many poor leaders demand loyalty not only because it appears that it is the thing to do...but because they are incompetent! Disloyal "circle members" pose a threat to their livelihood and success...
I have watch many "TOTALLY" incompetent leaders fire subordinates because they rightly pointed out major breaches in a leader's competency...
This is a bastardization of the true concept of loyalty and behaviors such as the one previously mentioned is one of the few instances where I truly believe in an "eye for an eye!"
If loyalty is not an unquestioning and selfless support of another...what is it?
The Great Leaders did demand loyalty...
They however recognized that loyalty is a fragile animal!
They also recognized that loyalty can not be required but is earned...and cultivated...
At any moment...a breach in one's character and integrity could effectively destroy any semblance of loyalty...
The demand for loyalty in reality was not a requirement for their followers...but a commitment to extraordinary behavior on their part...which earned unwavering loyalty!
If a follower had a criticism...a great leader took it to heart...realizing that it was true...
A great leader NEVER sought retaliation for any behavior that challenged the behaviors or decisions...
A great leader realized that if the individual was right...they either deserved the ramifications related to the breach...or they took the opportunity to improve.
Those who lacked this integrity and insight...are not leaders...but are no more valuable than the primordial slime from which their ancient ancestors arose!
Great leaders either met the challenge...changed the behavior...or stepped down!
Most pseudo-leaders today...spend most of their time defending their territory...and their reputation...
It is because of insecurity, incompetence...and laziness!
Some just plain do not know or understand the real ramifications of a demand for loyalty!
Most would be better off...not demanding it...
But they think they have to be like the real leaders...
I believe that most of these pseudo-leaders will never learn this lesson...
I hope that organizations begin to recognize this and take the right actions...
Many innocent employees have been hurt by those terrible leaders...
Companies have lost individuals who had much higher ethics, morals and more regard for the company's well being than the incompetent person who fired them!
I have ranted enough for one blog...
A demand for loyalty is a commitment to personal excellence...that those from which loyalty is demanded is truly nothing more than a by-product...only a fool would not be committed to someone like that!
Anything other than that...is deception...
The question that you must ask yourself...
Are you a real leader...or...
A liar?
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