Random Articles

• Pushing the Envelope of Business Requires a Strong Identity “Hardball involves playing the edges, probing that narrow strip of territory—so rich in possibilities—between the places where society clearly says you can play the game of business and those where society clearly says you can’t.” An exerpt from the Harvard Business School’s The Hardball Manifesto. The article’s examples of Hardball companies - Wal-Mart, Southwest Airlines, Toyota
• How to Stifle Teamwork - Part 3 The news reports that US Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfled had an opportunity to inspire, motivate the US troops during a recent question and answer session in Kuwait. Based on this exchange, I can’t say he succeeded in addressing the troops concerns let alone inspire them to go back into battle. That is unfortunate. “Why do we soldiers
• Taking Ownership Clients, customers, collegues don’t care why there’s a problem. They just want it fixed and to move on. To do that, each person approached with a client issue needs to take ownership of problem and feel they have the authority to deliver a satisfactory solution quickly. Take this Ritz Carlton experience for example: At exactly 7:00 p.m.
• If You’re a Guru, You Need a Podcast There are a handful of vocations ideally positioned for connecting with customers on a regular basis via audio (podcasting): Politicians Motivational Speakers Professional Consultants Musicians Poet, Author, or other Professional Writers If your vocation is in that list, find a speech or presentation and hit record. Then send it to your most passionate customers. It’s an easy way to effect them
• Sharks Stun But Pigs Kill “More people are killed every year by pigs than by sharks, which shows you how good we are at evaluating risk.” - Bruce Schneier author of Beyond Fear. Seth Godin’s recent Shark Attack! post reminded me of the Bruce Schneier quote above. Schneier’s ITConversation’s interview is a fantastic discussion on risk and decision making. His point