I’m convinced that visionary business leaders and managers who experience success have a combination of all three. I also know that they believe in the mission, are committed to success, and constantly work on professional self-improvement.
There are several characteristics that move you from being a leader with a vision to becoming a visionary leader. As times change and organizations are expected to more with fewer resources, it is imperative that leaders today are willing to embrace change while managing staff, and maintaining or increasing productivity and profits.
Here are my baseline considerations for visionary leaders:
1. Develop a shared vision. The visionary leader is not afraid to communicate the vision of the organization with others. They are also not afraid to communicate to others where they want to go and how they want get there.
2. Lead by example. Visionary leaders will lead others by setting a good example. They lead with confidence, they create an environment built around trust, and they are not afraid to rework a plan if it works better for the unit.
3. Be a change agent. In these challenging and ever-changing times, a visionary leader will identify challenges that may impact the bottom line and take steps to correct the challenge. Being popular or well-liked may always be a result of leadership, but the visionary leader is willing to go against what is popular for the good of the organization and its people.
4. Take risks. The visionary leader is comfortable taking risks. When it comes to moving an organization forward, increasing profits, and enhancing the organizations bottom line, the safest bet is not always the surest bet.
Which type of visionary leader are you?
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Sleepless (and Excited) in Houston
You know that feeling of excitement about something that keeps you up at night? That’s exactly how I felt last night knowing that we’re fully launching Xpect Results today, introducing the company to the world.
For years I’ve talked about the keys to moving your business forward: living your passion, following your dream, and, most important for a leader, “doing the opposite” of what ineffective leaders have done. I’ve taken my own advice, and for Xpect Results this is where the rubber meets the road.
The past few months I’ve been very busy preparing for the launch, and now I invite you to come along on the journey. Take a look at the expert training and coaching programs and solutions we offer, watch me in action as I discuss what it takes to develop and expand your business, and please, feel free to leave comments here or email me at info@xpectresults.com with your comments, suggestions, or recommendations.
Expect results. Experience success.
Patricia Jackson, founder and president, Xpect Results, LLC
For years I’ve talked about the keys to moving your business forward: living your passion, following your dream, and, most important for a leader, “doing the opposite” of what ineffective leaders have done. I’ve taken my own advice, and for Xpect Results this is where the rubber meets the road.
The past few months I’ve been very busy preparing for the launch, and now I invite you to come along on the journey. Take a look at the expert training and coaching programs and solutions we offer, watch me in action as I discuss what it takes to develop and expand your business, and please, feel free to leave comments here or email me at info@xpectresults.com with your comments, suggestions, or recommendations.
Expect results. Experience success.
Patricia Jackson, founder and president, Xpect Results, LLC
Friday, May 1, 2009
Doing the Opposite
Have you ever wondered who coaches new leaders how to become effective leaders? How often have you looked at the leadership within your organization and thought to yourself, “They are a liability waiting to happen”.
Like most people, we have all experienced the pitfalls of being led by an ineffective leader. The question is how can new and upcoming leaders avoid these pitfalls and experience leadership success? How can you avoid becoming a liability for your organization? In a few words: You have to start by "Doing the Opposite”!
As a new leader; if you are doing or believe any of the following statements are true, or have witnessed yourself or your leader displaying or believing any of the following statements, it is time stop and start "Doing the Opposite”!
1. Effective communications is only done via, blackberry, text messages or email.
2. Hiring your friends from your previous place of employment is a good hiring decision, regardless of their qualifications.
3. Sitting in meetings with other executives and contributing nothing to the conversation.
4. Building relationships within the organization and sucking up to move up the ladder is one and the same.
5. Leading by fear and intimidation is the same as effective leadership.
If you are witnessing any of these characteristics in your current leader or you find yourself aspiring to be just like that person; I urge you to stop, think and start "Doing the Opposite!
Copyright © 2009. All rights reserved.
Like most people, we have all experienced the pitfalls of being led by an ineffective leader. The question is how can new and upcoming leaders avoid these pitfalls and experience leadership success? How can you avoid becoming a liability for your organization? In a few words: You have to start by "Doing the Opposite”!
As a new leader; if you are doing or believe any of the following statements are true, or have witnessed yourself or your leader displaying or believing any of the following statements, it is time stop and start "Doing the Opposite”!
1. Effective communications is only done via, blackberry, text messages or email.
2. Hiring your friends from your previous place of employment is a good hiring decision, regardless of their qualifications.
3. Sitting in meetings with other executives and contributing nothing to the conversation.
4. Building relationships within the organization and sucking up to move up the ladder is one and the same.
5. Leading by fear and intimidation is the same as effective leadership.
If you are witnessing any of these characteristics in your current leader or you find yourself aspiring to be just like that person; I urge you to stop, think and start "Doing the Opposite!
Copyright © 2009. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
How People Find Jobs in All Markets
Jim...I keep sending resumes to companies but no one is calling me back. What else should I do? I really want to find a job doing what I like and I’m not getting the results I want.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
· 5 percent of people find their next career through advertised positions – help-wanted ads, the internet, and other publications.
· 23 percent find jobs through search firms, head-hunters, and employment agencies.
· 24 percent find jobs through making a list of desired employers and contacting companies directly.
Are you ready for this?
· The remaining 48 PERCENT of all jobs are found through referrals – simple word-of-mouth networking.
But Jim...I don’t have a network. What do I do now?
Building Your Networking
If you build it, they will help. Who are “they”? “They”, are your siblings, relatives, friends, neighbors, current and former coworkers, bosses, clients, vendors, and everyone you can think of that will return your call. Make lists of all the people you know and start smiling and dialing…today!
Networking and Career networking aren’t about calling people that can hire you (although that sometimes happens). Career networking is about talking to people that are interested in you and helping you meet the right people during your career search. Career networking conversations give you an opportunity to learn opinions, experiences, insights, guidance, and perspective. Each grain of advice you collect will get you closer to the opportunity you seek.
One lesson learned while being “in transition” is that the majority people you speak with are empathetic and are more than willing to help…you just need to know how to ask.
Discovering Existing Networks
Beyond the simple ways to build your network, some of the strongest networks start with groups of people with whom you share a common bond or interest. Who are they? Here are my top three recommendations:
1. Alumni Associations – Call your high school, college, graduate alumni associations to see what programs are available for alum. Most colleges and universities have a Career Services office more than willing to help…for FREE! They can help connect you to alumni in your area.
2. LinkedIn and Twitter – Many professionals post their professional profile online. This allows you to search using different criteria to find other professionals in your field, within certain companies, or those that attended certain schools (maybe yours?). The benefit of these online sites is the majority of people have uploaded a profile because they want to meet other people.
3. Professional Organizations – There is an organization for almost every profession. Join yours. Attend meetings (please, do not just put it on your resume), get involved, volunteer, become an officer, and make a difference. Your involvement can prove to your prospective employer whether you are serious about your career, or you are just looking for another job.
Asking for Help
Step 1: Find someone.
Step 2: Pick up the phone and schedule a time to talk – DO NOT “network” on the first call.
Step 3: When you meet, make a human connection – don’t just ask the person for job leads! Find out what makes this person tick. Find out what they are working on, what challenges they face in their role, and how they are managing those challenges.
Step 4: Use positive language. Talk about your situation, what you are seeking, and the progress you are making.
Step 5: Discuss the ideal opportunity – the opportunity that you would enjoy so much you would almost do it for free.
Step 6: Have target companies in mind. Don’t just say, “I am looking for anything…PLEASE!” This sounds desperate. You are a professional with skills and value you can bring to any employer.
Final thoughts
Be persistent and never give up. The kind of job you want is something you look forward to doing every day. Something that you do well, but does not feel like it drains your energy, it energizes you. Lance Armstrong said it best. After pedaling over 1,700 miles all over France, the Alps and Pyrenees during a two week period, he called his 16th stage of the race a “no chain” day. Lance felt so strong; it seemed as if his bicycle had no chain. Make sure you don't just find a job. Find a career that makes you happy, keeps you energized, and feels like you are riding a bike on all terrain with no chain.
Good luck!
The trackback URL for this entry is:
http://bestofthebestjmolloy.spaces.live.com/
jmolloy@xpectresults.com
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
· 5 percent of people find their next career through advertised positions – help-wanted ads, the internet, and other publications.
· 23 percent find jobs through search firms, head-hunters, and employment agencies.
· 24 percent find jobs through making a list of desired employers and contacting companies directly.
Are you ready for this?
· The remaining 48 PERCENT of all jobs are found through referrals – simple word-of-mouth networking.
But Jim...I don’t have a network. What do I do now?
Building Your Networking
If you build it, they will help. Who are “they”? “They”, are your siblings, relatives, friends, neighbors, current and former coworkers, bosses, clients, vendors, and everyone you can think of that will return your call. Make lists of all the people you know and start smiling and dialing…today!
Networking and Career networking aren’t about calling people that can hire you (although that sometimes happens). Career networking is about talking to people that are interested in you and helping you meet the right people during your career search. Career networking conversations give you an opportunity to learn opinions, experiences, insights, guidance, and perspective. Each grain of advice you collect will get you closer to the opportunity you seek.
One lesson learned while being “in transition” is that the majority people you speak with are empathetic and are more than willing to help…you just need to know how to ask.
Discovering Existing Networks
Beyond the simple ways to build your network, some of the strongest networks start with groups of people with whom you share a common bond or interest. Who are they? Here are my top three recommendations:
1. Alumni Associations – Call your high school, college, graduate alumni associations to see what programs are available for alum. Most colleges and universities have a Career Services office more than willing to help…for FREE! They can help connect you to alumni in your area.
2. LinkedIn and Twitter – Many professionals post their professional profile online. This allows you to search using different criteria to find other professionals in your field, within certain companies, or those that attended certain schools (maybe yours?). The benefit of these online sites is the majority of people have uploaded a profile because they want to meet other people.
3. Professional Organizations – There is an organization for almost every profession. Join yours. Attend meetings (please, do not just put it on your resume), get involved, volunteer, become an officer, and make a difference. Your involvement can prove to your prospective employer whether you are serious about your career, or you are just looking for another job.
Asking for Help
Step 1: Find someone.
Step 2: Pick up the phone and schedule a time to talk – DO NOT “network” on the first call.
Step 3: When you meet, make a human connection – don’t just ask the person for job leads! Find out what makes this person tick. Find out what they are working on, what challenges they face in their role, and how they are managing those challenges.
Step 4: Use positive language. Talk about your situation, what you are seeking, and the progress you are making.
Step 5: Discuss the ideal opportunity – the opportunity that you would enjoy so much you would almost do it for free.
Step 6: Have target companies in mind. Don’t just say, “I am looking for anything…PLEASE!” This sounds desperate. You are a professional with skills and value you can bring to any employer.
Final thoughts
Be persistent and never give up. The kind of job you want is something you look forward to doing every day. Something that you do well, but does not feel like it drains your energy, it energizes you. Lance Armstrong said it best. After pedaling over 1,700 miles all over France, the Alps and Pyrenees during a two week period, he called his 16th stage of the race a “no chain” day. Lance felt so strong; it seemed as if his bicycle had no chain. Make sure you don't just find a job. Find a career that makes you happy, keeps you energized, and feels like you are riding a bike on all terrain with no chain.
Good luck!
The trackback URL for this entry is:
http://bestofthebestjmolloy.spaces.live.com/
jmolloy@xpectresults.com
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Six Simple Steps to World-Class Service
Let's start by having you think about your job.
What is your job? Let's think about that for a
moment: I come to work every day, do my job,
and go home…right? WRONG! Maybe that is
how you used to look at your job. Now, we need to
change your viewpoint. What if we were to look
at your job through the eyes of your client?
“But…You say… I don't have clients, I work
on the inside.” WRONG AGAIN! Everyone that
depends on you for a service or solution is a client,
regardless of whether they are inside or outside of
Stanford. Changing the way you view your job is
the first step in ensuring you are consistently
delivering world-class service.
Here is a test. There is no right or wrong answer,
only the truth. I call it the “60 Minutes” test, but
it will take much less than an hour to complete.
Let's pretend that your boss has just hired Mike
Wallace from 60 Minutes to interview the last
five clients that depended on you for a service or
solution. What are your clients saying about you?
How can you make sure your clients are saying great
things about you…even when you are not in the room? What actions do you need to take RIGHT NOW to attract and retain loyal clients?
1. Develop a burning desire to find out what your clients need
2. Offer ways to help your clients achieve their goals and delight them with your help
3. Go beyond your clients' stated needs
4. Ask your clients how you can do better
5. Listen with sincerity and accept feedback openly
6. Be accountable for ensuring every client's experience is better than the last
The bottom line: Serve your clients well and make it a pleasure for everyone to work with you. Follow these simple steps and you won't just have clients, you will have created a group of dedicated fans.
What do you need to do right now? Now that you have read this far (and I thank you for that), challenge yourself to improve the quality of service you deliver to every client you interact with by just 1%.
Imagine what your clients will say about you when
Mike Wallace circles back for another interview!
Your 50th client won't even know what hit her because the quality of service you provide will be
50% better than the first client you touched.
Click here for a free consultation www.info@xpectresults.com to help YOU begin attracting and retaining loyal clients today!
Jim Molloy has helped many companies improve the quality of service delivered to clients. He is an expert on the topic and has delivered keynote addresses to help others learn what it takes to consistently deliver world-class service while developing loyal clients
What is your job? Let's think about that for a
moment: I come to work every day, do my job,
and go home…right? WRONG! Maybe that is
how you used to look at your job. Now, we need to
change your viewpoint. What if we were to look
at your job through the eyes of your client?
“But…You say… I don't have clients, I work
on the inside.” WRONG AGAIN! Everyone that
depends on you for a service or solution is a client,
regardless of whether they are inside or outside of
Stanford. Changing the way you view your job is
the first step in ensuring you are consistently
delivering world-class service.
Here is a test. There is no right or wrong answer,
only the truth. I call it the “60 Minutes” test, but
it will take much less than an hour to complete.
Let's pretend that your boss has just hired Mike
Wallace from 60 Minutes to interview the last
five clients that depended on you for a service or
solution. What are your clients saying about you?
How can you make sure your clients are saying great
things about you…even when you are not in the room? What actions do you need to take RIGHT NOW to attract and retain loyal clients?
1. Develop a burning desire to find out what your clients need
2. Offer ways to help your clients achieve their goals and delight them with your help
3. Go beyond your clients' stated needs
4. Ask your clients how you can do better
5. Listen with sincerity and accept feedback openly
6. Be accountable for ensuring every client's experience is better than the last
The bottom line: Serve your clients well and make it a pleasure for everyone to work with you. Follow these simple steps and you won't just have clients, you will have created a group of dedicated fans.
What do you need to do right now? Now that you have read this far (and I thank you for that), challenge yourself to improve the quality of service you deliver to every client you interact with by just 1%.
Imagine what your clients will say about you when
Mike Wallace circles back for another interview!
Your 50th client won't even know what hit her because the quality of service you provide will be
50% better than the first client you touched.
Click here for a free consultation www.info@xpectresults.com to help YOU begin attracting and retaining loyal clients today!
Jim Molloy has helped many companies improve the quality of service delivered to clients. He is an expert on the topic and has delivered keynote addresses to help others learn what it takes to consistently deliver world-class service while developing loyal clients
Thursday, March 12, 2009
It's Time to Run Faster
Yesterday I happened to catch a few minutes of the Ellen show. Her guest was P. Diddy (Sean "Puffy" Combs, Sean John, Puff Daddy or whatever name he goes by today). The conversation centered on Twitter and while P. Diddy attempted to explain to Ellen how Twitter works he mentioned that he often uses the site to motivate others. He said "If you are still chasing your dreams, you better run faster."
That comment struck a chord with me, maybe not necessarily a chord but it did motivate me to continue to chase my dreams and run as fast as I can. It is during times like these that we must RUN faster, work harder and continuously reassess our skills to get us closer to the dreams that we are chasing. One of my favorite authors, Napoleon Hill wrote; don’t wait. The time will never be just right. Mr. Hill also was quoted as saying; a goal is a dream with a deadline.
Don't wait for opportunity to come to you, go after it! Don't say that it is too late to learn something new, it is never too late! Don't say you can't, you can! If you have not written down your goals lately, now is time to start. It is time to start RUNNING FASTER!
That comment struck a chord with me, maybe not necessarily a chord but it did motivate me to continue to chase my dreams and run as fast as I can. It is during times like these that we must RUN faster, work harder and continuously reassess our skills to get us closer to the dreams that we are chasing. One of my favorite authors, Napoleon Hill wrote; don’t wait. The time will never be just right. Mr. Hill also was quoted as saying; a goal is a dream with a deadline.
Don't wait for opportunity to come to you, go after it! Don't say that it is too late to learn something new, it is never too late! Don't say you can't, you can! If you have not written down your goals lately, now is time to start. It is time to start RUNNING FASTER!
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