What Are Your "Big Three"?

My Big Three Have Always Been, And Continue To Be:  Do Good, Have Fun, Make Money.  How Do You Do That?

In my seven stints leading public and private high tech companies, I have come to learn several very important keys to effective leadership. These are the synthesis of 25+ years of senior leadership in the fast paced world of high technology.

They are:  

First, communicate, communicate, and above all - communicate.  Respect people and don’t be aloof and think you have all the answers, because you don’t – but “they” likely do.  Get them talking with you!

Second - hire slow, based on attitude and fire fast, based on performance. Have a written process and follow it when hiring the talent you need to fulfill your mission.  And always look beyond the resume at their character and competence.

 Third:  Lead from the front while setting high standards both professionally and personally – and at all times.  In reality, most people want to be lead and at the same time, listened to.  And it will surprise you how many “tough questions” have good answers right inside your own organization.  

Fourth:  Be quick to praise and give credit when it is deserved – human nature responds well to that and those who don’t get the praise will work harder to get it if they have any ambition at all.  The result will be folks who feel appreciated and committed to working harder and smarter because they know they will be recognized for the good they do.

 Fifth, effective planning and execution are the best means to success.  They build both trust and commitment in the minds of those who have to make those plans happen.

 Lastly, get together with peers on a regular basis to step back and look at your company and its performance.  That time working “on” the company rather than “in” the company will reap significant rewards not otherwise possible.

These things have led me to being able to accomplish my Big Three along the way, and what a journey it is!