There’s hardly a day that an opportunity to lead doesn’t occur. Look for the neglected problems, unfulfilled needs, a new or different way to do business – and follow your passion. If you want to lead, you don’t need a special set of marching orders. Step up to the challenge and do it!

Ask great questions – add value
Katie Hood, currently CEO of the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s disease, developed her leadership early in her career. Hood found that by questioning what had been accepted as true, she added real value. As an analyst at Goldman Sachs, she frequently questioned the aggressive bankers she supported. She would ask, “Does this make sense, given these facts?” Continue reading…

Convention says that to transform the business culture, start with a spate of town hall meetings, dinners with staff, elaborate family outings, and a blitz of internal PR. Designate culture champions to launch a campaign in every location. Make everyone feel great about the company. Play to win, not lose, and profits will soar!

There is a more realistic view. Culture is a by-product of concrete leadership decisions and actions that translate purpose and direction into tangible performance. Business leaders who achieve dynamic growth never underestimate the power of culture on the business, or the ability of culture to derail the company’s ambitious plans. These leaders know that culture is greatly influenced by their own actions, words, strategies and programs. Continue reading…