Tony was a key contributor to my project management skills. I learned how to give bad news, communicate program risks, and escalate issues that with some executives may not have been well received. Not that Tony didn't appreciate good news, I can assure you he did. In fact, he would often give public praise to those who kept their projects within control. Unfortunately, I had a very complex program that faced numerous obstacles. Without Tony's support I am confident that the program would have never seen the light of day.
After years of watching others manage difficult programs while leading a few myself, I could understand the fear many project manager's had when reporting issues. Executives could make it downright painful to tell them the truth. So much so in some cases that some PM's would outright lie or water down issues to the point where no action was taken. Delays, quality issues and budget overruns were commonplace as a result.
The culture of fear changed when Tony took the helm. Not that project's stopped having issues but Tony understood facts were a necessity to making quality decisions. He encouraged his PM's to identify risks early, communicate often and share bad news when necessary. He helped teams by removing obstacles, encouraging his peers to get engaged and escalating to his superiors if needed. He applauded truth. He removed the air of fear by creating a forum that welcomed open and candid conversation. In turn, quality decisions were made, risks mitigated and issues minimized.
Golden Nugget: Create a culture of quality and trust by encouraging and accepting candid discussion.
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
Monday, March 30, 2009
40-Day Series: Thank You Francine Ray
Francine...you can't help but smile when you think about Francine. She always had a kind word, displayed sincere care and I don't think I ever saw her without a smile. Come to think of it, I don't recall ever hearing her say "no" either. If you had a volunteer request, Francine would raise her hand. Need a presentation edited? She was your copy editor. Print jobs, copies, hugs, or your sanity checked? Francine was there.
I can't begin to tell you all the times Francine helped me out of a last minute jam, plan a big event or manage an executive issue. As if that wasn't enough, she had a full-time job directly supporting a vice-president and the hundreds of employees within the organization. You could rely on her 100% as she always delivered on her commitments while paying attention to those details that most would overlook. She would happily accept any task no matter the size or visibility. In a big corporation where many people only wanted to work on something that had executive visibility, Francine was a breath of fresh air helping with what needed to get done vs. what was "cool" or "strategic."
Not only did she help me but she helped countless others throughout the entire company and in her community. She taught me the value in taking care of the details. She also helped me realize that much of the big problems would have never gotten big if someone had taken care of the issue when it was just the "small stuff." Last but not least, she taught me the power of the smile. :)
Golden nugget: Keep the small stuff small by taking care of the details.
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
I can't begin to tell you all the times Francine helped me out of a last minute jam, plan a big event or manage an executive issue. As if that wasn't enough, she had a full-time job directly supporting a vice-president and the hundreds of employees within the organization. You could rely on her 100% as she always delivered on her commitments while paying attention to those details that most would overlook. She would happily accept any task no matter the size or visibility. In a big corporation where many people only wanted to work on something that had executive visibility, Francine was a breath of fresh air helping with what needed to get done vs. what was "cool" or "strategic."
Not only did she help me but she helped countless others throughout the entire company and in her community. She taught me the value in taking care of the details. She also helped me realize that much of the big problems would have never gotten big if someone had taken care of the issue when it was just the "small stuff." Last but not least, she taught me the power of the smile. :)
Golden nugget: Keep the small stuff small by taking care of the details.
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
40-Day Series: Thank You Fong Johnson
Fong contacted me more than a year ago asking if I would share a day in the life of a staff manager. She was interested in becoming a staff manager someday and thought I could share insights that would help her create a personal development plan. Our first meeting would lead to a great mentor/mentee relationship and ultimately a friendship that I value very much.
I realized that Fong was much more than a mentee when she posted a recommendation for me on LinkedIn. Typical recommendations are a paragraph or shorter. Not Fong's. She wrote almost a half a page and talked from both a business and personal perspective. She was concerned she didn't write it correctly or said too much. I posted it just the way she wrote it as I had never read something so touching. It completely floored me with how thoughtful it was and is truly one of my most favorite recommendations. I still can't believe someone would take the time and effort to write such kind things..she was another real inspiration to starting this 40-day blog series.
Fong is a first generation Chinese American and has a unique and incredible outlook on life. Even though we started our relationship with me serving as the mentor there are more times than not that I feel like the mentee. She is incredibly bright and can appreciate the more subtle things in life that I think many of us take for granted. She has a proven strength that not only comes from leaving a home country thousands and thousands miles away but also supporting a spouse that has recovered from a life threatening illness. She is the full package and is going to be so much more than a staff manager someday.
Golden Nugget: Being a mentor is more about learning than teaching.
I realized that Fong was much more than a mentee when she posted a recommendation for me on LinkedIn. Typical recommendations are a paragraph or shorter. Not Fong's. She wrote almost a half a page and talked from both a business and personal perspective. She was concerned she didn't write it correctly or said too much. I posted it just the way she wrote it as I had never read something so touching. It completely floored me with how thoughtful it was and is truly one of my most favorite recommendations. I still can't believe someone would take the time and effort to write such kind things..she was another real inspiration to starting this 40-day blog series.
Fong is a first generation Chinese American and has a unique and incredible outlook on life. Even though we started our relationship with me serving as the mentor there are more times than not that I feel like the mentee. She is incredibly bright and can appreciate the more subtle things in life that I think many of us take for granted. She has a proven strength that not only comes from leaving a home country thousands and thousands miles away but also supporting a spouse that has recovered from a life threatening illness. She is the full package and is going to be so much more than a staff manager someday.
Golden Nugget: Being a mentor is more about learning than teaching.
Friday, March 20, 2009
40-Day Series: Thank You Laurie Halfert
I had the great pleasure to watch Laurie begin her career as a secretary (which she was way over qualified for) and through pure determination move all the way up to a technical program manager. Throughout it all she was always willing to lend a helping hand, would take advantage of every learning opportunity, and instilled a positive energy with any team she worked with. She volunteered often for community service efforts and many times served in a leadership capacity. I think what I found most impressive about Laurie was her amazing skill of active listening.
Laurie and I worked together for many years...we shared bosses, teammates, and cocktails. We experienced career and personal challenges together. We knew how to pick each other up, make each other laugh, and be honest with one another...real honest. She saw me grow from a Jr. level employee to her manager. Through it all she never faltered to listen, regardless of the conversation.
I remember our first performance review. I felt awkward as we had been friends for such a long time and now I was responsible for evaluating and coaching her. She made it so very easy and listened intently on what I had to say. She was a great example of how actively listening can make for great conversation. Actively listening allows you the opportunity to speak intelligently and meaningfully and nobody did it better than Laurie.
Golden Nugget: Listen without judgment.
Laurie and I worked together for many years...we shared bosses, teammates, and cocktails. We experienced career and personal challenges together. We knew how to pick each other up, make each other laugh, and be honest with one another...real honest. She saw me grow from a Jr. level employee to her manager. Through it all she never faltered to listen, regardless of the conversation.
I remember our first performance review. I felt awkward as we had been friends for such a long time and now I was responsible for evaluating and coaching her. She made it so very easy and listened intently on what I had to say. She was a great example of how actively listening can make for great conversation. Actively listening allows you the opportunity to speak intelligently and meaningfully and nobody did it better than Laurie.
Golden Nugget: Listen without judgment.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
40-Day Series: Thank You Glen Boney
The first time I met Glen was when I was part of a team interviewing him. He was so impressive and we didn't hesitate to vote to have him join our group. Glen is from Mississippi, loves fried squid (which has the most "unique" smell), and is one of the kindest men I have ever known. He is also a retired Army Lt. Colonel, smart as hell and can tell a joke better than any stand-up comedian on the circuit. Oh, did I say he is one of the kindest men I have ever known?
Glen would leave our team following a promotion to manager. He could have moved to the executive branch but didn't want to deal with the bullshit. He would end up being instrumental in helping me not get just one job but two. His first effort was helping me get an interview with Tim Lunsford. He really went to bat for me as Tim already had his pick in mind. His second effort was getting my dream job working for Kathy Walker. Glen was working on her presentations and I was always dropping by trying to learn about what he was doing. He would transition the presentation responsibility over to me which ultimately led me to getting the staff manager gig. I never understood why he was always so willing to help me but I am forever grateful for his support.
Not only did he help me get the two gigs but he always provided a listening ear, valuable advice and even a hug now and then to raise my spirit. He had the best stories and wasn't afraid to laugh at himself. He encouraged me to embrace the value of the meeting before the meeting. He knew how to really truly help people in the most unconditional way. He taught me the power of selflessness and how to kill em' with kindness. Did I tell you he was the one of the kindest man I have never known?
Golden Nugget: Give help and support unconditionally
Glen would leave our team following a promotion to manager. He could have moved to the executive branch but didn't want to deal with the bullshit. He would end up being instrumental in helping me not get just one job but two. His first effort was helping me get an interview with Tim Lunsford. He really went to bat for me as Tim already had his pick in mind. His second effort was getting my dream job working for Kathy Walker. Glen was working on her presentations and I was always dropping by trying to learn about what he was doing. He would transition the presentation responsibility over to me which ultimately led me to getting the staff manager gig. I never understood why he was always so willing to help me but I am forever grateful for his support.
Not only did he help me get the two gigs but he always provided a listening ear, valuable advice and even a hug now and then to raise my spirit. He had the best stories and wasn't afraid to laugh at himself. He encouraged me to embrace the value of the meeting before the meeting. He knew how to really truly help people in the most unconditional way. He taught me the power of selflessness and how to kill em' with kindness. Did I tell you he was the one of the kindest man I have never known?
Golden Nugget: Give help and support unconditionally
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
40-Day Series: Thank You George Porta
George and I worked together first back in the late 90's. We were on the same project that was demanding, revolutionary and fun believe it or not. Even though we worked on different teams I found myself at his desk quite often asking one of my million questions trying to figure out the product and technology we were deploying. George always made time to answer my questions and provide explanations in layman terms. His patience was incredible.
A few years later George would give me a call that led to me working directly for him. Not only did I get to work for him and on a great team but it was finally the job that pushed my overall compensation up to being equal with my peers. I would learn all about sales and have the pleasure of supporting the Northeast division which was a blast. The best part of the job though was working with George...I can't possibly explain all that I learned from him. We had an interesting communication style in our working relationship and if you were to walk in the room you would have thought we were fighting.
George and I were two passionate people which came through loud and clear in our conversations. It sounds weird I know but it worked for us. It was a huge relief to work who could appreciate my passion and learning process. I didn't have to be "careful" with what I was saying or asking...I could be all me and he took it in stride. He knew how to coach me to get the best from me and would challenge me to reach for more. He knew how to take my knee jerk reactions when I made mistakes and would provide the hug of support when I was down. He was the ultimate role model of making business personal and his teaching left me with knowledge that I use everyday.
Golden Nugget: Appreciate people for who they are and focus on their strengths
A few years later George would give me a call that led to me working directly for him. Not only did I get to work for him and on a great team but it was finally the job that pushed my overall compensation up to being equal with my peers. I would learn all about sales and have the pleasure of supporting the Northeast division which was a blast. The best part of the job though was working with George...I can't possibly explain all that I learned from him. We had an interesting communication style in our working relationship and if you were to walk in the room you would have thought we were fighting.
George and I were two passionate people which came through loud and clear in our conversations. It sounds weird I know but it worked for us. It was a huge relief to work who could appreciate my passion and learning process. I didn't have to be "careful" with what I was saying or asking...I could be all me and he took it in stride. He knew how to coach me to get the best from me and would challenge me to reach for more. He knew how to take my knee jerk reactions when I made mistakes and would provide the hug of support when I was down. He was the ultimate role model of making business personal and his teaching left me with knowledge that I use everyday.
Golden Nugget: Appreciate people for who they are and focus on their strengths
40-Day Series: Thank You Tricia Howe
Oh where do I start with my good friend and sister in spirit Tricia? I met her at Western Illinois when I was teaching a cheer camp and she was a coach with one of the participating squads. We immediately hit off...myself, along with the rest of the staff, agreed she was one of us and needed to be on staff. So, we called the owner, Linda Chappell who then came out to the camp on our request to meet with Tricia and agreed with our assessment and hired her on the spot. Tricia was on staff and teaching a camp the very next week.
I would be fortunate and blessed to have Tricia on my staff the following year when I was camp director. I would have never made it that summer had it not been for Tricia and her constant support and laughter. She knew when to pick me up, when to push me ahead and when to tell me to shut the hell up. She was an incredible leader and role model for the campers, the staff and for me. She experienced some pretty significant personal issues that summer and yet you would have never known it as she was always upbeat, positive and full of endless energy.
Tricia now lives in Chicago, is a business professional, has a great family and is still involved in the cheerleading world. I just spoke with her today and was reminded of the powerful impact she has made on my heart, my spirit, and my mind. She juggles what one can only call an insane schedule and continues to live life to the fullest. She continues to teach me that life is about making it happen, giving no less than 100%, and to be an active participant not simply a bystander. My energy level is replenished just by thinking about her!
Golden Nugget: Energy creates energy..giving 100% is infectious!
I would be fortunate and blessed to have Tricia on my staff the following year when I was camp director. I would have never made it that summer had it not been for Tricia and her constant support and laughter. She knew when to pick me up, when to push me ahead and when to tell me to shut the hell up. She was an incredible leader and role model for the campers, the staff and for me. She experienced some pretty significant personal issues that summer and yet you would have never known it as she was always upbeat, positive and full of endless energy.
Tricia now lives in Chicago, is a business professional, has a great family and is still involved in the cheerleading world. I just spoke with her today and was reminded of the powerful impact she has made on my heart, my spirit, and my mind. She juggles what one can only call an insane schedule and continues to live life to the fullest. She continues to teach me that life is about making it happen, giving no less than 100%, and to be an active participant not simply a bystander. My energy level is replenished just by thinking about her!
Golden Nugget: Energy creates energy..giving 100% is infectious!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
40-Day Series: Thank You Rebecca Caldwell
I always admired the job Rebecca had....she was responsible for leading the national community service initiatives at Sprint. Her big time programs were the United Way, Harvesters and March of Dimes. It was the March of Dimes program that would bring us together. My boss happened to be the Corporate Executive Sponsor so I was on point to make sure the effort was a total success and surpassed the company goals. Easier said than done and without Ms. Caldwell leadership we wouldn't have come even close to the goal.
Rebecca had an uphill battle with the campaign. We were coming off a down year with the previous year's campaign missing the goal. We were in the midst of a company lay-off so the environment wasn't necessarily in the mood to give what they didn't have. All this and my boss was adamant that we find a way to help the babies and meet the goal she set which was even more than the previous year. Many would have not accepted the challenge but Rebecca not only accepted it, she embraced it with arms wide open.
We knew we had to find new ways to encourage participation to generate donations. Rebecca was completely open to suggestions, changes in process, and sharing others creative ideas to get the whole company on the same page. She displayed the rare skill of accepting help which is a true character of leadership. She knew the power of appreciation and was constantly sharing her thanks which made people want to do even more to help the campaign. The ultimate proof of her skill and more importantly her heart was the company raising 6X the funds from the previous year and blowing out the company goal.
Golden Nugget: Embrace community service and let others help you to achieve the "impossible"
Rebecca had an uphill battle with the campaign. We were coming off a down year with the previous year's campaign missing the goal. We were in the midst of a company lay-off so the environment wasn't necessarily in the mood to give what they didn't have. All this and my boss was adamant that we find a way to help the babies and meet the goal she set which was even more than the previous year. Many would have not accepted the challenge but Rebecca not only accepted it, she embraced it with arms wide open.
We knew we had to find new ways to encourage participation to generate donations. Rebecca was completely open to suggestions, changes in process, and sharing others creative ideas to get the whole company on the same page. She displayed the rare skill of accepting help which is a true character of leadership. She knew the power of appreciation and was constantly sharing her thanks which made people want to do even more to help the campaign. The ultimate proof of her skill and more importantly her heart was the company raising 6X the funds from the previous year and blowing out the company goal.
Golden Nugget: Embrace community service and let others help you to achieve the "impossible"
40-Day Series: Thank You Craig Cowden
Craig was a big bad director when I met him back in 2003 in Reston, VA. He ran the managed services network team and was kind of an intimidating character. He knew what he wanted and he didn't waste time letting you know if you weren't meeting his expectation. I wasn't sure what to think of him at the time but had a feeling he was a guy that was going places.
Fast forward to 2007 and I would have the opportunity to work with Craig again in a new capacity. I was responsible for coordinating executive staff which Craig had become since the last time we worked together. I began to get to know him much better this second time around and realized he wasn't intimidating...he was just incredibly passionate and sincere about making the business as efficient and effective as possible. He would ask insightful questions, challenge the status quo and wouldn't back down until he got an acceptable answer. This was somewhat uncommon and would make some uncomfortable but that wouldn't stop him as he was determined to help the team evaluate all the facts and assumptions.
Craig would become a mentor to me. He took time out of his very busy and demanding schedule to meet with me monthly. He was open, honest and willing to answer any question I had. He taught me the important lesson that first and foremost you must be yourself at the table and not be afraid to have your voice be heard. He encouraged me to be confident without apology or compromise. He inspired me to reach for more and I appreciate the time he took in doing so.
Golden Nugget: Ask the tough questions and have your voice be heard
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
Fast forward to 2007 and I would have the opportunity to work with Craig again in a new capacity. I was responsible for coordinating executive staff which Craig had become since the last time we worked together. I began to get to know him much better this second time around and realized he wasn't intimidating...he was just incredibly passionate and sincere about making the business as efficient and effective as possible. He would ask insightful questions, challenge the status quo and wouldn't back down until he got an acceptable answer. This was somewhat uncommon and would make some uncomfortable but that wouldn't stop him as he was determined to help the team evaluate all the facts and assumptions.
Craig would become a mentor to me. He took time out of his very busy and demanding schedule to meet with me monthly. He was open, honest and willing to answer any question I had. He taught me the important lesson that first and foremost you must be yourself at the table and not be afraid to have your voice be heard. He encouraged me to be confident without apology or compromise. He inspired me to reach for more and I appreciate the time he took in doing so.
Golden Nugget: Ask the tough questions and have your voice be heard
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
Friday, March 13, 2009
40-Day Series: Thank You Simon Kuo
I love telling the story of when I first worked with Simon. It was back in 1996 in the training department at Sprint. He was a Kelly temp helping the training schedulers with overflow work. I should say he was a bio-chem PhD holder who was a Kelly temp. The man was just brilliant and I couldn't freaking believe he was a Kelly temp. Come to find out, he had recently left his academia lab rat gig to try something new. As you can imagine, he quickly moved from temp to leader and would end up becoming a VP in Strategy.
I kept in touch with Simon over the years and we re-connected in person last summer. We wanted to catch-up on life as we both had left telecom and ended up sharing our new found insights and assessments of the world. We would go on to meet again and started to discuss the possibility of working together on a start-up. He was already connected in with a group of people and thought I may be a good fit to help the team. I never thought that our "catch-up lunch" would be the first step towards achieving my entrepreneurial dream.
I officially became co-owner and Chief Development Officer of LightThread late last fall. With Simon's leadership and guidance we are on track to formally launch by the end of this month. We plan on being in our new office space next week. We already have a growing customer pipeline with two beta customers currently enjoying our services. I am still amazed that a "re-connection" lunch ultimately led to my dream gig...I owe it all to Simon and am so thankful!
Golden Nugget: Stay in touch with old colleagues and be open to new opportunities they offer.
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
I kept in touch with Simon over the years and we re-connected in person last summer. We wanted to catch-up on life as we both had left telecom and ended up sharing our new found insights and assessments of the world. We would go on to meet again and started to discuss the possibility of working together on a start-up. He was already connected in with a group of people and thought I may be a good fit to help the team. I never thought that our "catch-up lunch" would be the first step towards achieving my entrepreneurial dream.
I officially became co-owner and Chief Development Officer of LightThread late last fall. With Simon's leadership and guidance we are on track to formally launch by the end of this month. We plan on being in our new office space next week. We already have a growing customer pipeline with two beta customers currently enjoying our services. I am still amazed that a "re-connection" lunch ultimately led to my dream gig...I owe it all to Simon and am so thankful!
Golden Nugget: Stay in touch with old colleagues and be open to new opportunities they offer.
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
Thursday, March 12, 2009
40-Day Series: Thank You Jean Matkovich
I met Jean 2 years ago at my first Aji conference. Aji offers a Business Professional Certification program that is the equivalent to an Executive MBA. Jean and I are both students in the program. There were 80+ people at that 1st conference so there was a lot of hand shaking and introductory conversations. Jean shined as someone I would want to keep in touch with and get to know...the law of attraction works in mysterious ways.
Jean is an amazing woman and an incredible teacher. I would end-up participating in a study group with her that would be instrumental in helping me get to graduation. She would share these powerful insights that brought instant clarity to the most complex topics. Her calming demeanor helped the team focus and manage their moods. She would share knowledge that made us all smarter by just joining her on the phone 1 hour a week.
I have met many a smart person in my life but I have never seen anyone who had such passion and joy to share with others like Jean does. She studies, reads, and observes the world around her like no other person I know. She relishes the opportunity to engage in new situations so she can continue to expand her thinking. My ability to accomplish new achievement in life is directly related to my knowing and learning from Jean. I am blessed to have met her, know her, and be friends with her.
Golden Nugget: Embrace learning and share what you know with others.
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
Jean is an amazing woman and an incredible teacher. I would end-up participating in a study group with her that would be instrumental in helping me get to graduation. She would share these powerful insights that brought instant clarity to the most complex topics. Her calming demeanor helped the team focus and manage their moods. She would share knowledge that made us all smarter by just joining her on the phone 1 hour a week.
I have met many a smart person in my life but I have never seen anyone who had such passion and joy to share with others like Jean does. She studies, reads, and observes the world around her like no other person I know. She relishes the opportunity to engage in new situations so she can continue to expand her thinking. My ability to accomplish new achievement in life is directly related to my knowing and learning from Jean. I am blessed to have met her, know her, and be friends with her.
Golden Nugget: Embrace learning and share what you know with others.
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
Monday, March 9, 2009
40-Day Series: Thank You Tim Lunsford
I first met Tim when I interviewed with him for a manager gig. He didn't have me on his top 3 list but a mutual contact (Glen Boney who I will be talking about later on in the series) encouraged him to give me an interview. I thought he was just doing Glen a favor and figured there was no way in hell I would get the job so I went in to the meeting with a nothing to lose attitude. Tim and I seemed to hit it off from the start and that interview was probably the best one I have ever had. I'm always amazed at how much better we do when we aren't trying so damn hard.
I learned all I needed to know about Tim as we were walking together after the interview was completed. We were engaging in your normal small talk chit chat when he stopped and told me he forgot to ask me something. He asked, "are you a yes man?" I said no and if that was what he was looking for then he needed to find someone else and if he didn't believe me he could just ask around. He said he couldn't stand yes people and wanted people who would challenge him. He wanted his team strong, confident and to have voices that wanted to be heard.
He lived up to that philosophy and often encouraged his team to challenge each other and debate the topic to get to a better answer. He accepted different points of view and not only would he acknowledge he learned something new he would actually show appreciation. He knew how to have a good time while getting real business done. He didn't get caught up in politics but knew how to manage within them. He led by example and encouraged his managers to lead too. He was truly one of the best bosses I have ever had.
Golden Nugget Foster an environment of debate, challenge the status quo and be wary of the Yes man.
I learned all I needed to know about Tim as we were walking together after the interview was completed. We were engaging in your normal small talk chit chat when he stopped and told me he forgot to ask me something. He asked, "are you a yes man?" I said no and if that was what he was looking for then he needed to find someone else and if he didn't believe me he could just ask around. He said he couldn't stand yes people and wanted people who would challenge him. He wanted his team strong, confident and to have voices that wanted to be heard.
He lived up to that philosophy and often encouraged his team to challenge each other and debate the topic to get to a better answer. He accepted different points of view and not only would he acknowledge he learned something new he would actually show appreciation. He knew how to have a good time while getting real business done. He didn't get caught up in politics but knew how to manage within them. He led by example and encouraged his managers to lead too. He was truly one of the best bosses I have ever had.
Golden Nugget Foster an environment of debate, challenge the status quo and be wary of the Yes man.
40-Day Series: Thank You Linda Sherlock
The pressure of a big time customer pitch can be pretty intense when it is your first time. I remember the night before a $60M pitch to NASDAQ like it was yesterday. We had executives in town and conducted a presentation walk-through to ensure everyone was comfortable with their part. As we got about half-way done it became clear our story was not clear and there was much work to be done with the presentation. We had a delayed start with the rehearsal so by the time we were done and could start the editing it was already pretty late in to the evening. It looked like it was going to be an all-nighter.
Thank God I had Linda Sherlock by my side. The executives left to get their beauty sleep and the rest of the account team assumed Linda and I were good to go with the "edits." Linda and I were on the same page that the presentation needed a lot more than "edits" and basically needed an entire re-write. We weren't sure where to start so we ordered a bottle of wine and began with slide 1. We would proceed to restructure the entire presentation and finally wrapped up about 5 a.m. with a wake-up call scheduled for 7 a.m.
I can't imagine what I would have done that night without Linda. She was amazing, brilliant, patient and knew when to let us take moment to laugh and decompress. Her strategic insight was critical in weaving a compelling story. The lack of sleep paid off as NASDAQ called the pitch a "homerun" with several members following us out to our car to tell us how well we did. Her experience with big-time accounts would be invaluable to me beyond that one night and had a huge impact on my custom sales success. She taught me how to build a narrative that customers wanted to hear and would find valuable. She also taught me that you do whatever it takes to impress a customer (even if it means little to no sleep), that the story is everything and when your not sure what to do next that a bottle of wine can bring clarity.
Golden Nugget: If it isn't good do what you have to do to fix it and make it great.
Thank God I had Linda Sherlock by my side. The executives left to get their beauty sleep and the rest of the account team assumed Linda and I were good to go with the "edits." Linda and I were on the same page that the presentation needed a lot more than "edits" and basically needed an entire re-write. We weren't sure where to start so we ordered a bottle of wine and began with slide 1. We would proceed to restructure the entire presentation and finally wrapped up about 5 a.m. with a wake-up call scheduled for 7 a.m.
I can't imagine what I would have done that night without Linda. She was amazing, brilliant, patient and knew when to let us take moment to laugh and decompress. Her strategic insight was critical in weaving a compelling story. The lack of sleep paid off as NASDAQ called the pitch a "homerun" with several members following us out to our car to tell us how well we did. Her experience with big-time accounts would be invaluable to me beyond that one night and had a huge impact on my custom sales success. She taught me how to build a narrative that customers wanted to hear and would find valuable. She also taught me that you do whatever it takes to impress a customer (even if it means little to no sleep), that the story is everything and when your not sure what to do next that a bottle of wine can bring clarity.
Golden Nugget: If it isn't good do what you have to do to fix it and make it great.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
40-Day Series: Thank You Steve Coker
Steve challenged me to make my biggest career decision at Sprint...he challenged me to quit. He challenged me by getting me to admit that the only reason I didn't want to quit was because of fear. Calling me a chicken definitely triggers a button with me and his challenged work...I put in for my volunteer package the very next day.
I knew of Steve Coker years earlier as the projects we worked on would intertwine from time to time but I never really got to know him. Then 2 years ago we both started the business professional certification program with Aji. Steve and I quickly realized that we had a lot in common with our overachiever tendencies being our strongest connection. Aji was teaching us how we were creating our own obstacles most of the time and that we needed networks of help to truly achieve success. Steve and I realized that we would need to let go of our lone ranger behavior (this being one of a ton of things we would learn at Aji) if we were to take our career to the next level.
Steve quickly became a confidant and an important part of my network of help. He would take time out of his busy schedule to meet with me, listen and help me ground my observations and assessments. Most important, he would be honest with me, push me, call me on my bullshit and in turn helped me become a bonafide adult and professional. He allowed me to do the same with him which allowed us to build trust...the kind of trust that you need to have with a colleague if you are going to excel. I am so fortunate to have Steve in my network of help and blessed to call him my friend.
Golden Nuggett: Find someone who you trust enough to call you a chicken and appreciate it when they do
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
I knew of Steve Coker years earlier as the projects we worked on would intertwine from time to time but I never really got to know him. Then 2 years ago we both started the business professional certification program with Aji. Steve and I quickly realized that we had a lot in common with our overachiever tendencies being our strongest connection. Aji was teaching us how we were creating our own obstacles most of the time and that we needed networks of help to truly achieve success. Steve and I realized that we would need to let go of our lone ranger behavior (this being one of a ton of things we would learn at Aji) if we were to take our career to the next level.
Steve quickly became a confidant and an important part of my network of help. He would take time out of his busy schedule to meet with me, listen and help me ground my observations and assessments. Most important, he would be honest with me, push me, call me on my bullshit and in turn helped me become a bonafide adult and professional. He allowed me to do the same with him which allowed us to build trust...the kind of trust that you need to have with a colleague if you are going to excel. I am so fortunate to have Steve in my network of help and blessed to call him my friend.
Golden Nuggett: Find someone who you trust enough to call you a chicken and appreciate it when they do
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
Friday, March 6, 2009
40-Day Series: Sharon Williams
Did you ever have a co-worker that was just an absolute joy to work with? Someone who helped make work something fun to look forward to? This person for me was Sharon Williams. I can't help but have a big huge grin just thinking about her. We worked together for years and even after we went down different career paths, we would hang out from time to time at our local watering hole. She was always a great source of support for me and helped me through some critical points in my career.
One such point was after my interview for the Executive Staff Manager job. I was giddy, excited and nervous as hell. I went outside and low and behold who should I run into? Well, Ms. Williams of course. I told her about the interview and shared my fears about both getting and not getting the position. I wasn't sure if I was ready for the "big time" and if I was a fool for thinking I had a serious shot at being selected. Sharon listened, nodded her head and then in Sharon style said something freaking hilarious that almost made me forget about the interview all together.
I'll never forget that moment and how I was glad that of all the people to run into that it was her. She had this way of making you completely comfortable, confident, and optimistic that all is good with the world. She also had a way of making you feel as if you could tell her anything as you knew she would hold it in utmost confidence. Sharon was raised in a small town called Marshall, MO which I think is why she was so good at making you feel right at home, even if it was only in her cube. In addition to all the personal ways she supported you, she also was one hell of a business colleague doing whatever the team needed to be successful. Business was personal to her and I'm blessed to have shared so much of my career with her by my side.
Goldent Nuggett: Be a listening ear and know when to tell a joke.
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
One such point was after my interview for the Executive Staff Manager job. I was giddy, excited and nervous as hell. I went outside and low and behold who should I run into? Well, Ms. Williams of course. I told her about the interview and shared my fears about both getting and not getting the position. I wasn't sure if I was ready for the "big time" and if I was a fool for thinking I had a serious shot at being selected. Sharon listened, nodded her head and then in Sharon style said something freaking hilarious that almost made me forget about the interview all together.
I'll never forget that moment and how I was glad that of all the people to run into that it was her. She had this way of making you completely comfortable, confident, and optimistic that all is good with the world. She also had a way of making you feel as if you could tell her anything as you knew she would hold it in utmost confidence. Sharon was raised in a small town called Marshall, MO which I think is why she was so good at making you feel right at home, even if it was only in her cube. In addition to all the personal ways she supported you, she also was one hell of a business colleague doing whatever the team needed to be successful. Business was personal to her and I'm blessed to have shared so much of my career with her by my side.
Goldent Nuggett: Be a listening ear and know when to tell a joke.
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
Thursday, March 5, 2009
40-day Series: Thank You Dr. Claudio Lima
A man of genius. A description that is simple and yet, commands respect which is exactly how I think of Dr. Claudio Lima. Claudio worked back in the early 2000's at the Advanced Technology Lab in Burlingame, CA. He was responsible for ultra long-haul research and strategy. For those of you not familiar with the term "ultra long-haul," it is the backbone of the telecommunications network...without long-haul you couldn't make a long distance phone call or send an email. I met Claudio after I was assigned as project manager to the lab. Upon my arrival, I received a less than desired welcome from some, however Claudio made sure to go out of his way to say hello and made me feel at home.
Claudio always had a smile and was geniune in his desire to do whatever he could to help you understand what he was working on. Much of his work was a language I didn't understand...lambdas, algorithms, and various computations that made your head hurt just by looking at the drawings and writings on his whiteboard. My job was to help KC engineers back at HQ understand the value of what the lab was producing so they could incorporate it in their desing plans. There was so much to learn that it was overwhelming most days. I also faced an uphill battle with some of the ATL lab leaders as the last thing they wanted was some PM from HQ coming in trying to change things and introduce new processes. I think it was my third trip when I was starting to make some progress but still struggling a bit when Claudio asked me how I was doing.
I was so appreciative of him taking a moment to share concern and offer to help. I was hesistant to ask for an ultra long-haul overview as I was afraid I wouldn't understand it and the last thing I wanted was to look stupid in front of this very kind and intelligent man. He took the time (and we are talking painstaking hours), to patiently walk me through all things long-haul. He could have talked right over my head or down to me and he did neither. He used terms I could understand, he made sure I was following along, and he would check my ability to to apply the knowledge to various design scenarios. I think I learned more about technology in that one overview with him then I did in my 16 years at Sprint. It was like I could literally feel my brain growing by just being in the same room with him. Dr. Lima showed sincere respect for me as if I was an equal even though I was much lower on the academia totem pole.
Claudio always shared a comforting smile and was always willing to chat when I arrived at the lab for my monthly visits. In turn, he made a tough assignment not just easier but a true pleasure and honor.
Golden Nugget: Don't be afraid to ask the smart guys for help and if you are the smart guy help the student feel smart too. Be kind to those who are on assignment and/or new to the group.
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
Claudio always had a smile and was geniune in his desire to do whatever he could to help you understand what he was working on. Much of his work was a language I didn't understand...lambdas, algorithms, and various computations that made your head hurt just by looking at the drawings and writings on his whiteboard. My job was to help KC engineers back at HQ understand the value of what the lab was producing so they could incorporate it in their desing plans. There was so much to learn that it was overwhelming most days. I also faced an uphill battle with some of the ATL lab leaders as the last thing they wanted was some PM from HQ coming in trying to change things and introduce new processes. I think it was my third trip when I was starting to make some progress but still struggling a bit when Claudio asked me how I was doing.
I was so appreciative of him taking a moment to share concern and offer to help. I was hesistant to ask for an ultra long-haul overview as I was afraid I wouldn't understand it and the last thing I wanted was to look stupid in front of this very kind and intelligent man. He took the time (and we are talking painstaking hours), to patiently walk me through all things long-haul. He could have talked right over my head or down to me and he did neither. He used terms I could understand, he made sure I was following along, and he would check my ability to to apply the knowledge to various design scenarios. I think I learned more about technology in that one overview with him then I did in my 16 years at Sprint. It was like I could literally feel my brain growing by just being in the same room with him. Dr. Lima showed sincere respect for me as if I was an equal even though I was much lower on the academia totem pole.
Claudio always shared a comforting smile and was always willing to chat when I arrived at the lab for my monthly visits. In turn, he made a tough assignment not just easier but a true pleasure and honor.
Golden Nugget: Don't be afraid to ask the smart guys for help and if you are the smart guy help the student feel smart too. Be kind to those who are on assignment and/or new to the group.
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
40-Day Series: Thank You Kathy Walker
As I wrote about Shushan yesterday I mentioned how we both worked for the Chief Network Officer at Sprint. Kathy Walker just happened to be said Chief Network Officer. The first time I worked in an organization ran by Kathy was back in the late 90's...in fact, the first time I met Kathy was when I was asked to play a singing fish over the building intercom system for her as a practical joke. You know....the bass fish that hung on the wall and sang "don't worry, be happy?"...a great way to meet your VP don't you think?
I would work in Kathy's organization's throughout most of my career and always had a great amount of respect for her leadership style. She was that rare woman who could be direct without being a bitch. She was the leader of a male dominated engineering organization and one of the few women leaders in the telecom industry, especially in the technical arena. She never forgot where she came from and was an active alumni of both her undergrad school South Dakota State and her graduate school, University of Missouri-Rolla.
Her passion was teaching, coaching and mentoring others. She was the driver behind Sprint's college recruiting program and between you and I, that program would never have been as successful as it was if it wasn't for her vision and push. Her schedule was insane but she always saved her Saturday's for mentoring sessions. I'm sure she turned some people down but in the year and a half I worked for her if someone asked for time with her she always accepted. As a C-level officer in a 60K person organization you would think she would be intimidating but she went out of her way to make you comfortable.
I had the pleasure and honor of sitting with her on multiple occassions and being the recipient of her coaching. Her world could be on the verge of being turned upside down and yet when I entered her office and the door closed, she made me feel as if she had all the time in the world and would give me complete focus. She didn't rush the conversation and was brilliant in how she would lead you to the lesson while helping you find your confidence along the way.
In my very first blog post I mentioned a quote that I learned from Kathy..."confidence isn't granted by others, it comes from within." I lean on this lesson daily, especially as I start a new company and fight through the fears and doubts that come when doing something I have never done before. I also remember how impressive it was to see Kathy stay true to herself even during the most stressful times. She wasn't afraid to share her own personal experiences and mistakes if she thought it would help someone learn. She was a great example of authentic leadership and I'm thankful to have been one of her followers.
Goldent Nugget: Don't forget where you came from and be willing to lead as your authentic self
I would work in Kathy's organization's throughout most of my career and always had a great amount of respect for her leadership style. She was that rare woman who could be direct without being a bitch. She was the leader of a male dominated engineering organization and one of the few women leaders in the telecom industry, especially in the technical arena. She never forgot where she came from and was an active alumni of both her undergrad school South Dakota State and her graduate school, University of Missouri-Rolla.
Her passion was teaching, coaching and mentoring others. She was the driver behind Sprint's college recruiting program and between you and I, that program would never have been as successful as it was if it wasn't for her vision and push. Her schedule was insane but she always saved her Saturday's for mentoring sessions. I'm sure she turned some people down but in the year and a half I worked for her if someone asked for time with her she always accepted. As a C-level officer in a 60K person organization you would think she would be intimidating but she went out of her way to make you comfortable.
I had the pleasure and honor of sitting with her on multiple occassions and being the recipient of her coaching. Her world could be on the verge of being turned upside down and yet when I entered her office and the door closed, she made me feel as if she had all the time in the world and would give me complete focus. She didn't rush the conversation and was brilliant in how she would lead you to the lesson while helping you find your confidence along the way.
In my very first blog post I mentioned a quote that I learned from Kathy..."confidence isn't granted by others, it comes from within." I lean on this lesson daily, especially as I start a new company and fight through the fears and doubts that come when doing something I have never done before. I also remember how impressive it was to see Kathy stay true to herself even during the most stressful times. She wasn't afraid to share her own personal experiences and mistakes if she thought it would help someone learn. She was a great example of authentic leadership and I'm thankful to have been one of her followers.
Goldent Nugget: Don't forget where you came from and be willing to lead as your authentic self
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
40-day Series: Thank You Shushan Aleaqui
Have you ever met someone that after you met them you wondered how you got as far in life as you did without them? This sums up how I think about Shushan Aleaqui. Talk about a person who has an amazing life story....she was born in Armenia. Her family came to the United States to escape the tumultuous state of affairs and give their children a chance at happiness. They didn't just move anywhere they moved to Hollywood, CA....can you imagine?? You don't know any English, you are not familiar with American customs and the first introduction you have to the country is Hollywood?? Wow!
I'm guessing the big time challenges she experienced as a kid left her with always striving for more. She left a successful design career when she decided to try something more technical and started all over again in the telecom industry. She built her way back up and became an executive at Nextel. I met her fairly soon after the Sprint/Nextel merger as she was then working directly for the Chief Network Officer (CNO). My role at that time was as manager with a side gig creating presentations for the CNO so I ended up working with Shushan quite a bit. Little did I know when I met with her that she would open the door to the biggest opportunity I would ever have at Sprint.
Shushan was instrumental in getting me the staff manager job which was an executive development role working for her but directly supporting the CNO. More important than helping me get the job was all that Shushan would teach me in 3 short months before she would leave to take on a new role. I relished the 1-1 time I had with her and would try to everything I could to soak up all the knowledge she was willing to share with me. She was direct, immediate with her feedback and yet gentle when she recognized I was hitting the overload button. She took the time to truly coach me...not just tell me what I wanted to hear or harp on the obvious but honest to goodness coaching. She didn't tell me what I did wrong but would lead me to realize it on my own which really helped me own it. Even when she wasn't purposefully coaching she was still teaching through modeling the most professional behaviors I have ever seen from a business colleague.
She was proof that you could make business personal and still be professional, fact based, to the point and deliver knock-out results. She was willing to share life lessons as well as business knowledge and would point out how they intertwined together. Her education is never-ending as there are things I have just started to experience that make what she taught all the more relevant and applicable. She pointed out to me that to truly coach takes courage as it has to come from within and many are afraid to be so transparent. I would add not only courage but time, patience and authenticity which makes a good coach that much harder to find. I am blessed to have had Shushan as a coach in my life and forever thankful for the friendship we share.
Golden Nugget: Take the time, show the patience and have the courage to be authentic when coaching others.
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
I'm guessing the big time challenges she experienced as a kid left her with always striving for more. She left a successful design career when she decided to try something more technical and started all over again in the telecom industry. She built her way back up and became an executive at Nextel. I met her fairly soon after the Sprint/Nextel merger as she was then working directly for the Chief Network Officer (CNO). My role at that time was as manager with a side gig creating presentations for the CNO so I ended up working with Shushan quite a bit. Little did I know when I met with her that she would open the door to the biggest opportunity I would ever have at Sprint.
Shushan was instrumental in getting me the staff manager job which was an executive development role working for her but directly supporting the CNO. More important than helping me get the job was all that Shushan would teach me in 3 short months before she would leave to take on a new role. I relished the 1-1 time I had with her and would try to everything I could to soak up all the knowledge she was willing to share with me. She was direct, immediate with her feedback and yet gentle when she recognized I was hitting the overload button. She took the time to truly coach me...not just tell me what I wanted to hear or harp on the obvious but honest to goodness coaching. She didn't tell me what I did wrong but would lead me to realize it on my own which really helped me own it. Even when she wasn't purposefully coaching she was still teaching through modeling the most professional behaviors I have ever seen from a business colleague.
She was proof that you could make business personal and still be professional, fact based, to the point and deliver knock-out results. She was willing to share life lessons as well as business knowledge and would point out how they intertwined together. Her education is never-ending as there are things I have just started to experience that make what she taught all the more relevant and applicable. She pointed out to me that to truly coach takes courage as it has to come from within and many are afraid to be so transparent. I would add not only courage but time, patience and authenticity which makes a good coach that much harder to find. I am blessed to have had Shushan as a coach in my life and forever thankful for the friendship we share.
Golden Nugget: Take the time, show the patience and have the courage to be authentic when coaching others.
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
Monday, March 2, 2009
40-Day Series: Thank You Victor Alba
If you love anything about Boston then you and Victor would be friends. Victor is a HUGE Boston sports fan. What is even more cool about Victor is he is a rock star soccer player...not just your average club guy, I mean he is GOOD...REALLY GOOD. In addition to his athletic abilities are his brain abilities...the guy is a technical genius, a visionary, a tactical specialist and can communicate the most complex solutions in a simplistic manner to where your Grandma could understand it.
I met Victor when I was on a custom solution sales team. He was a sales engineer (which is a title that completely mis-represents what he brought to the table) for one of the accounts I was assigned to. The account required some creative thinking to meet the demanding requirements set forth by the customer. There are more times than I care to remember where I really felt in over my head. Victor knew exactly what to say to reinforce my confidence and guide me to finding a solution. Little did I know that this was just the beginning of what would become one of my most important relationships in my professional life.
Victor and I stayed in touch after I left sales and started a new job. He became not only a friend but a true and highly valued confidant. I would engage his opinion before any significant decision. His willingness to share, guide, and advise never failed me. He took it upon himself to check in on me from time to time, and he always seemed to know when I needed him the most. Since I have left Sprint we don't talk as much as we used to but I know he is only a phone call/email away and just knowing he is there is a comfort to me.
Golden Nugget: Share your passion and hobbies with your co-workers, you may find a connection that transcends business and leads you to new possibilities in life.
I met Victor when I was on a custom solution sales team. He was a sales engineer (which is a title that completely mis-represents what he brought to the table) for one of the accounts I was assigned to. The account required some creative thinking to meet the demanding requirements set forth by the customer. There are more times than I care to remember where I really felt in over my head. Victor knew exactly what to say to reinforce my confidence and guide me to finding a solution. Little did I know that this was just the beginning of what would become one of my most important relationships in my professional life.
Victor and I stayed in touch after I left sales and started a new job. He became not only a friend but a true and highly valued confidant. I would engage his opinion before any significant decision. His willingness to share, guide, and advise never failed me. He took it upon himself to check in on me from time to time, and he always seemed to know when I needed him the most. Since I have left Sprint we don't talk as much as we used to but I know he is only a phone call/email away and just knowing he is there is a comfort to me.
Golden Nugget: Share your passion and hobbies with your co-workers, you may find a connection that transcends business and leads you to new possibilities in life.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
40-Day Series: Thank you Tony Painton
Every now and then in your career you get lucky enough to get assigned a manager that becomes a friend for life. I had recently moved in to the network organization at Sprint when I was told I would be working for Mr. Painton. I had worked with Tony previously but didn't really know him very well. I had mixed feelings when I initially found out he would be my boss as I thought I would be working directly for the person who had hired me.
Tony made me feel at home right away and his team had more a family vibe vs. your typical corporate team. It didn't take long before I felt like I was just one of the family members. There are soooo many stories and golden nuggets I could share but I know you don't have that kind of time. I'll try to sum up his impact with two quick stories.
After only working on his team for a few months Tony told me he was giving me a raise...now keep in mind the corporate world has a set annual cycle for giving people raises so this act was not a commone one. I was completely shocked and so appreciative as my young family really needed a financial boost. What was so unbelievably cool was Tony took it upon himself to initiate the raise...he thought I was under paid and decided to do something about it. Most managers would simply wait for the normal cycle but Tony thought getting me to equal pay right away was the right thing to do. Golden nugget #1 - take care of your team, even if it means going against normal process to do so.
Humor....humor can make the most stress filled situations bearable and almost enjoyable. One of Tony's favorite tales and one of my most embarrassing is the infamous wrong shoe story. My first business trip EVER was with Tony to San Francisco. I had been assigned to work with the lab in Burlingame so we went out to meet them. It was expected to be a tension filled trip as it was very well known that the lab liked their independence and was not thrilled with the notion that HQ was sending a PM to work with them. The morning of the big meeting with the lab director I was getting ready and realized I brought two different shoes. I must have looked through my bag a million times only to find one flat shoe and one high heel shoe. Keep in mind it was 7:00 a.m. so no stores open to go buy a new pair. Mortified I ride the elevator down to the lobby. I ask Tony to look at me and he says I look fine and I say again, LOOK AT ME! and he gives me a look like I am a crazy chick and says, "what? you look fine." I then point to my feet and he tries not to chuckle. I tell him that if we hurry we can get to the meeting and sit down before anyone notices. We succeed with our plan...or so I thought. Tony takes it upon himself to start the meeting with an icebreaker by sharing the fact that I am wearing two different shoes. Everyone has a good laugh and the tension is immediately lessened. Golden nugget #2...never underestimate the power of laughter.
Like I said, I could go on and on with stories and lessons I learned from Tony. A great indication of an awesome manager? Their people will work for them again and again...I worked for Tony on two different occasions...many of the people that work for him now have worked with him in the past. Some have never stopped working for Tony and probably never will if they have a say in it. Just as important is the fact that his teams have a great reputation for delivering and getting things done...the team members that moved on only did so as they were promoted. I will forever be grateful for his mentorship and friendship.
Golden Nuggets: 1) Take care of your team, even if it means breaking the rules from time to time. 2) Laugh the tension away
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
Tony made me feel at home right away and his team had more a family vibe vs. your typical corporate team. It didn't take long before I felt like I was just one of the family members. There are soooo many stories and golden nuggets I could share but I know you don't have that kind of time. I'll try to sum up his impact with two quick stories.
After only working on his team for a few months Tony told me he was giving me a raise...now keep in mind the corporate world has a set annual cycle for giving people raises so this act was not a commone one. I was completely shocked and so appreciative as my young family really needed a financial boost. What was so unbelievably cool was Tony took it upon himself to initiate the raise...he thought I was under paid and decided to do something about it. Most managers would simply wait for the normal cycle but Tony thought getting me to equal pay right away was the right thing to do. Golden nugget #1 - take care of your team, even if it means going against normal process to do so.
Humor....humor can make the most stress filled situations bearable and almost enjoyable. One of Tony's favorite tales and one of my most embarrassing is the infamous wrong shoe story. My first business trip EVER was with Tony to San Francisco. I had been assigned to work with the lab in Burlingame so we went out to meet them. It was expected to be a tension filled trip as it was very well known that the lab liked their independence and was not thrilled with the notion that HQ was sending a PM to work with them. The morning of the big meeting with the lab director I was getting ready and realized I brought two different shoes. I must have looked through my bag a million times only to find one flat shoe and one high heel shoe. Keep in mind it was 7:00 a.m. so no stores open to go buy a new pair. Mortified I ride the elevator down to the lobby. I ask Tony to look at me and he says I look fine and I say again, LOOK AT ME! and he gives me a look like I am a crazy chick and says, "what? you look fine." I then point to my feet and he tries not to chuckle. I tell him that if we hurry we can get to the meeting and sit down before anyone notices. We succeed with our plan...or so I thought. Tony takes it upon himself to start the meeting with an icebreaker by sharing the fact that I am wearing two different shoes. Everyone has a good laugh and the tension is immediately lessened. Golden nugget #2...never underestimate the power of laughter.
Like I said, I could go on and on with stories and lessons I learned from Tony. A great indication of an awesome manager? Their people will work for them again and again...I worked for Tony on two different occasions...many of the people that work for him now have worked with him in the past. Some have never stopped working for Tony and probably never will if they have a say in it. Just as important is the fact that his teams have a great reputation for delivering and getting things done...the team members that moved on only did so as they were promoted. I will forever be grateful for his mentorship and friendship.
Golden Nuggets: 1) Take care of your team, even if it means breaking the rules from time to time. 2) Laugh the tension away
Be who you are and learn to be better,
Lisa
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