I feel that as leaders we create a vision of where our organization needs to go in order to grow and prosper in these hard economic times. This includes ways that we can improve both the quality and acceptance of the goal by working with all levels of employees, the administrative team, and key employees throughout the various departments. It is important to discuss the best vision for the company with as many individuals as possible to get their ideas and their support. I also think that as leaders, that we must work with the strengths and weaknesses of our organizations, as well as the external opportunities and threats. In the past, once a goal established, We must work to inspire everyone in the department to get onboard. As a leader in great organizations, we must be passionate about what we do. This inspiration extends to customers, investors, suppliers, boards of directors and all other stakeholders.

We, as leaders, must as a group and as individuals think tactically. To me this means keeping an eye on the bottom line and be committed to results. My experience has shown that one must plan for and take a real interest in the company’s as well as my department’s return on investment, P & L, and make sure they stay in line. Not only do I feel that we, as leaders, must stay focused on the big picture, it is also important to stay focused on the day to day operations and that they align with my companies overarching mission or goals. Another method that I have employed in the past is to be direct and straightforward. I set clear performance expectations and hold people accountable. This requires being direct and truthful, which can be difficult at times.

In my past positions, I have been able to bring others to the company point of view using logic, reason, emotion, and the force of their personalities. It is important to be able to motivate by persuasion rather than intimidation. Being a leader of people in a department, It is important to be likeable, people-centric, and an active listener. Interpersonal skills are paramount, generally liking people and being open and dedicated to lifelong learning through constant feedback from the team through direct conversations and objective reflexive thought. We need to constantly seek improvement – Improvement in processes, to the work environment, and to the individual skills of the people in the department.

Being in charge requires on to make decisions quickly and decisively. At times one needs to make decisions quickly. However, when data is not available to back a decision one still must make decisions with incomplete data and make them work. As Theodore Roosevelt said, “In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing, the next best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst thing you can do is nothing.”