A big shout out to Andy Budgell of Actionable Books for his review of my management development book – “Confessions of a Reformed Control Freak – The Top Ten Sins Most Managers Make & How to Avoid Them”. I wrote this book so first time managers, team leaders and supervisors could learn from my sins. And trust me – in my 40+ year career as a general manager for one of Canada’s most successful and respected companies and an award-winning entrepreneur – I’ve committed each of one of these sins at one time or another. I know from experience what works – and more importantly – what doesn’t work when it comes to communicating and interacting effectively with others. I’ve posted the review here for you to read. Let me know what you think. Better yet – Contact me directly to purchase an autographed copy for yourself or someone you know.
Women Make The Best Bus Drivers
I love watching people. I’m not talking about stocking here – just watching. People are facinating. You gotta wonder some times what motivated them to do what they do. How they talk, walk and act. What makes people act that way? What compelled them to dress that way? And based on my observation – women are much better at jobs that require dealing with the public. Generally speaking women seem to have better social skills. They seem to smile more, interact with others more and have a pleasant outlook on life more.
Have you taken public transit lately? I take the bus quite often and it just seems to me that women bus drivers are more likely to greet you with a smile and a pleasant hello – as opposed to a male bus driver who barely acknowledges you at all.
Working with the public – isn’t for everyone – I get that. But if you aren’t happy doing what you do – do yourself and everyone else a favor and pick an alternative career – because you aren’t going to be all you should be with this one. At least learn to act like you’re glad to see me. Hey – That’s all I’m sayin.
How Great Bosses Motivate Employees | Inc.com 2
Do you hire stupid people or do they just get stupid after working for you? Your role as a manager is to teach your people what they need to know to accomplish what you’ve hired them to do. If you aren’t – you’re robbing them of their opportunity to grow. Managers must do 3 things very well. They must be able to communicate, educate and delegate effectively. Great article by Jeff Haden. Well worth the read. – Enjoy
5 Habits of Customer-Obsessed Companies | Inc.com
The only thing that will separate you from your competition is the level of customer service you provide. It’s not your product – it’s not your price – it’s not your selection. (Your competitors are already doing the same) The only competitive advantage is the customer service that you and your team members provide. Providing exceptional customer service is not as difficult as it may sound. All you have to be – is be better than your competition. All you have to be – is be better than the last customer service experience your clients had. Have you shopped your competitors lately? You should. If you aren’t shopping your competitors weekly – and comparing their service against the service that your company is providing – you’re giving them an edge. – Great article on those companies that are doing it well. How do you stack up against them? Enjoy the read. Stay Focused. – Cheers – Brian
Brian Smith - Power Link Dynamics 