Strategic Serendipity

We've all read lots of books and articles on giving feedback, but what is the best way to receive feedback?  My default response used to be to explain my position, show how I do what the person is asking, or show how I wanted to but someone else prevented me.  If I am caught off guard or stressed, these are still my gut instincts.  However, I have learned two much more constructive ways to respond to feedback that I strive to use more often.  The first started as I became more self-aware and felt comfortable and safe acknowledging and working on my weaknesses.  If someone points something I am aware of and I feel safe (i.e., it is pointed out in a private forum versus a public forum) the best thing I can do is say "I know, do you have any suggestions or advice that will help me?"  If someone has the courage to step out of their comfort zone to point out a way I can improve, it is a safe bet they've thought about it beforehand.  The second way to handle...

Two different conversations with two amazing and insightful women this week helped me realize why I am having trouble blogging and how to fix it.  (Thank you Phyllis Serbes and Misti Burmeister !)  Funny thing is, they probably have no clue they also helped me identify one trait that holds me back time after time.  (Thanks now does not seem enough.)   So what is this magic recipe for blogging (and professional) success?  The one that took me 39 years to learn?  Don't demand perfection.   Yes, I have heard it before.  But for some reason, hearing it this week from two women I admire and respect in relation to blogging crystallized the bigger picture (and pattern) in my mind.  Here's my story, let me know what you think.  I started this blog in November because I feel like I have something to contribute to the study of leadership.  I keep a handwritten journal of my thoughts and I am constantly making notes, connecting ideas, and c...

Tip of the week: multitask your professional development.  I recently found the Center for Creative Leadership 's podcasts on iTunes U.  If you prefer, you can get there on the computer via the link above.  What I love about loading them on my iPod though is the ability to use my commute time for professional development.  The podcasts are relatively short pieces that can be crammed into even the shortest commute.  Wondering where to start?  I recommend "How to Grow as a Leader," a great piece on developmental assignments.

Penn State's Academic Advising Journal defines mentor as "a wise and trusted counselor or teacher." It is rooted in Greek mythology, Mentor was Odysseus's trusted counselor, under whose disguise Athena became the guardian and teacher of Telemachus. Today, when we think of mentors we think of one of two things: (1) a person who has added quality to your life through sheer good will, or (2) a person assigned as a part of an educational or work program whose job it is to show you how things are done. I’ll use a shorthand for referring to the two types (1) an “organic” mentor and (2) an “assigned” mentor. If you are very lucky, you may get a two-for-one, but don’t worry if you don’t. Life is full of both types and you can learn from both. I’ll write more about strategies for working with mentors in the future. If you are lucky enough to find a person you want to emulate, ask them to be your mentor, this will be your “organic” mentor. Tell them what you want to learn ...

I am inspired by two friends who, in the last month, have secured new and better work opportunities for themselves. Neither are known for constantly selling themselves to their superiors, but they stepped outside of their comfort zone and asked for something they wanted. I am so excited for and proud of them! So, what is it that you want in 2010? I challenge you to learn from my two friends. Look at what is out there (and what may be coming down the line), determine what aligns with your skills and talents, and go to the source to show them why you are the best person to get the job done. In the meantime, have a happy and prosperous new year!

Are leaders born or created? We've all seen the spark of natural leadership in someone. Looking at those people we think that they have it easy. The fact of the matter is, leadership is just like football, ballroom dancing, or acting. The people who have the natural talent can sometimes fall behind those with less talent but more commitment to old-fashioned hard work. True leaders combine natural talent with personal reflection, continued study, and practice. Over the past year, I began the process of studying leadership. My path is just beginning but I'm hoping you'll come with me. I'll be looking at some of the current books and theories in the marketplace. I would love to hear your suggestions and your stories of places you've seen great leadership in action - remember to keep them anonymous. Thank you for joining me on this journey!