What to do…

When you bite off more than you can chew?

A famous idiomatic expression that suggests you have taken on more than you are capable of.  So, rise to the challenge!  Here are 3 very simple, straightforward things you can do that will help you tackle what seems to be a gargantuan challenge.

1.      Take one bite at a time.  Often we see the enormity of what we have committed to and fear sets in - - stop, take a step back and break it down.

2.      Prioritize and set expectations.  Often we get ahead of ourselves in promising and delivering.  Prioritize the task with key stakeholders and set expectations.

3.      Recognize that you may need support - - Ask for it.

I cannot recall a leader/executive in the making that did not bite off more than they could chew at one time or another…  Nope, I cannot think of a single one.  Why?  Because the “can-do” courage, the nudge from within says:  “I’m Hungry!”  If you are not hungry, chances are you are complacent – reach a little.  That is how you develop.

RIM!

Too little, Too late…. And here’s why we Do SWOT Analysis

A change in the executive is supposed to reassure the investment community that Research in Motion can ….. Compete in the new smart phone market…. Next Year?

Each year the senior management gets together and reviews the Strategic Plan, and here’s where complacency becomes evident.  The “external analysis”, opportunities & threats are real and the “strengths” need to capitalize on opportunities and mitigate the identified threat. You must not conclude your planning session without scenarios assigned a probability of likelihood and charted.   You cannot wait 4 years, each of which has noted the threat of Apple to your smart-phone business before you do something.  

Next time you are asked to take part in a Strategic Planning session, take the SWOT Analysis seriously.

Respect your competitors’ desire to displace you!  Hear what your customers are saying and innovate – this will help mitigate threats to your business.

Stop the Meeting Rollercoaster with

8 Minute Meetings

If you come from an organization that seems to have a lot of long meetings (1 hour & 2 hour) and most then wonder, “Why?”

·         I’m in a meeting

·         I have back-to-back meetings

Sound familiar?  If you want to increase efficiency and engagement from your team try having an 8 minute meeting, keeping these in mind:

1.      Enable Action - You do not have to play every instrument just be the conductor

a.       Provide guidance– this is your role if you call the meeting

2.      Have frequent check-ins

a.      Smaller numbers – 10 or 12 at a meeting creates loafing.  Over the years meetings and invitees have ballooned; lower the list and… look out for the pout!

3.      Lead and engage with open/honest communication

a.      Specific status updates

b.      Last question before you adjourn – “What do you need me to do?”…  Back to point #1, Enabling Action requires you to “Remove obstacles”.