The Arc
I have been captivated by Ron Chernow’s extensive biography of Ulysses S. Grant. Grant’s rise from irrelevance to the White House was sudden, and rather remarkable in hindsight. Post Presidency, Grant became the first 19th-century American President to tour the world for over two years. After a brief political comeback went up in flames, he […]
On the Necessity of Listening to Those You Don’t Agree With…
The other night I decided to do something that was uncomfortable by listening to a political figure I disagree with on mostly everything. This person’s identity is irrelevant; what is relevant is whether or not we – leaders – are willing to listen to those we disagree with? In business, livelihoods depend on people of […]
Will you help me?
A few weeks ago, I felt completely over-committed. Between an International trip, a minor speaking engagement, business booming, and family life, I did not have margin for much else. And yet, I had to prepare for one of the bigger speaking engagements of my life at the end of the month. Reviewing my outline, I […]
Observations from Korea
I write these words on the last leg of my journey home from Korea. I normally don’t use the blog to comment on business trips, but given the hoopla regarding the political climate in Korea, I feel this trip to be different. Fear Many people were surprised that I was going to Korea. “Are you […]
Creating a Wide Enough Net
I received another rejection notice the other day for a potential speaking engagement. I was somewhat relieved. A few observations… First, I was relieved because I have thrown my name in the hat for several speaking engagements. So a few “you have not been chosen” messages are actually relieving. Second, I take rejection as a […]
Who is the hero?
Many sales people “show up and throw up.” In attempting to overcome every anticipated objection, they describe all the features and benefits of their service or company. “Our quality is impeccable, our on-time delivery is 99.9%, our pricing is competitive, and our customer service is second to none.” Have you ever heard a pitch where […]
Did WE get a bonus?
“Did WE get a bonus,” asked Sarah as I walked into the door. It was the end of the year, the company had done well, and so her anticipation was appropriate. “Yes, WE did,” I replied. All of us play a “we” game. Take me for example. Without Sarah, I wouldn’t travel nearly as much. […]
Confidence vs. Courage
What’s the difference between confidence and courage? Are you willing to do what is uncomfortable?
On Mentoring
A few weeks ago, a family friend asked me if I could mentor their child. Of course! Anyone who knows me knows that I believe in being 100% transparent. So, I share the email I wrote to this individual below in hopes of modeling one way of doing so —“one way” is the key phrase […]
Show and Tell….
Yesterday was an extremely difficult day at Hoffer Plastics. Some thoughts on our family, and a challenge to show and tell. (Note: Excuse the bad video angle. I was not filming this message twice!).