The articles in this issue remind us of certain fundamentals, including clarity of vision and organization-wide alignment in purpose and core values.
Reflections, Jill Stefani Wagner
2009 Table of Contents
Humble Leaders and Organizational Humility
Patrick LencioniLying at the heart of the scandals and corporate collapses on the front pages today may be a fundamental misunderstanding of the true nature of leadership. Three great institutions demonstrate the most important ingredient of success.
Would Someone Please Dissent?
Jim WoodsWhen making team decisions, everyone brings unique perspectives to the table, and the resulting disagreement should not be avoided. Generative thinking helps us understand how to leverage these conflicting perspectives for the benefit of the organization.
On the Same Page
A Conversation with Joe DumarsThe Detroit Pistons have enjoyed tremendous success for more than six years. This is no accident. Former star player and current President Joe Dumars shares winning principles that apply to any organization in any industry.
Confidence > Comfort
John D. AndersonMany successful executives are surprised to find themselves very uncomfortable in what they thought was the “good life,” but this should be expected when the “good life” is the goal. The challenge is to find confidence in discomfort.
More Than a Title
Ellen BrysonThe words on a business card don’t make someone a leader. What does real leadership look like? The word itself offers an answer and a simple way to remember.
Managing the Family Business
David DudonWhen business issues and family issues are the same thing, the challenges in each institution multiply. Adhering to three key disciplines will ensure that family remain allies and make life much easier for everyone involved.
The Achilles Heel of Nonprofits
Chris EliasNonprofit organizations may think that low budgets are their primary obstacles to retaining employees, but money is rarely the sole reason an employee leaves. Strategic discipline enables nonprofits to target the one inherent advantage they already have in attracting talent.
Timeless Concepts of Leadership & Management
Prafulla PandeToday’s winning business principles are not rocket science. They are also nothing new, as revealed by the writings of a B.C.-era thinker from the other side of the world.
The Benefits of Awards
Perspectives from Three Award-Winning CEOsAwards are everywhere, and just about anyone can win one for something. However, don’t let their abundance diminish their potential significance to your organization. Three CEOs share how awards have helped their organizations in ways that go far beyond marketing.
Releasing the Martyrs
Cyndi GaveAs young companies grow, the CEO often decides he must part ways with the very people who helped build the business. These may be tough decisions, but if approached correctly, they can – and should – benefit everyone involved.
Preparing Your Business for Sale
Jeff & Tracey WillsMany small businesses eventually sell to larger organizations. Even if they don’t, however, operating as if they will can help drive discipline at all levels and increase the company’s value, regardless of who owns it.
BHAG This, BHAG That…
Troy SchrockThe BHAG concept, first identified by authors Jim Collins and Jerry Porras, is a powerful tool for rallying an organization around shared vision. The challenge is to avoid rendering it meaningless by misapplication or overuse.
Artist Profiles
Jill Stefani Wagner and Ilivia Marin YudkinJill Stefani Wagner’s watercolor paintings and pastel drawings have been exhibited in solo and group exhibitions throughout the Midwest. Ilivia Marin Yudkin is a painter, designer, and photographer whose work is strongly influenced by her world travels.
