How a company adapts during a crisis or problem can give you a true sense of their leadership. Policies are important to be created and followed as a framework when issues pop up. But when an unprecedented crisis occurs, leadership is tested. I have to say I’ve been disgusted by many employers’ choices during the European travel crises due to the Icelandic volcano. Because so many of the stories I’m referencing are sourced from blogs and cnn.com ireports, I’m not going to reference them with links, as I cannot verify the criticisms of specific companies. But the lessons are still real. read more »

As leaders we should all try to give the gift of perspective to our employees, our friends, and our families, especially in this difficult economic time. We may not have the power or authority to change the current physical or financial environment, but we can change our perspective and we can help others do the same. I believe that, as leaders, we must consider what perspective we follow and what perspective we project. read more »

After discussing the trip we took to South Africa last summer with a friend, Greg Magennis, he loaned me an amazing book, Playing the Enemy by John Carlin. This book is an incredible study of leadership. At first I was simply impressed by the story of Nelson Mandela and how he lead people from apartheid into his presidency and a more unified nation. The story itself made a big enough impression on me. Yet, I can’t stop thinking about the book. It is the essence of his leadership that keeps playing in my mind. read more »

You have knowledge that you take for granted, as most people do. But one of the best gifts you can give is your knowledge. I talked about this a little at Thanksgiving, but there is more to consider. As you gather for Christmas holidays you will encounter students or people who may have been through a lay off or reorganization. Your knowledge may be invaluable to them. read more »

When I was 18, I volunteered to help with a local judging competition of ad agency work. I wasn’t qualified to be a judge. I was qualified to be the hostess for our out-of-town judges. I made a connection with one of the judges, Rich Flora, with whom I have since enjoyed a relationship which has evolved from career mentor, to vendor, to informal life coach, to dearest of friends for the last 24 years. What I learned from him about Dallas even had an influence over my decision to move here. Rich is a writing genius, yet I believe his leadership skills are his truest calling. read more »