Monday, May 12, 2008

Stormy Seas:

Every organization must be prepared to abandon everything it does to survive in the future." ~ Peter Drucker

Bob Prosen’s post emphasizes the skill set of leadership during turbulent times.

“it's particularly important during times of uncertainty to simplify your plan and focus on execution. This means having a small set of quantifiable objectives and timelines to facilitate accountability throughout the organization. But that alone is not enough. You must also lead knowing that people are your most important asset and to that end, you want to always be certain employees know you are committed to their success and will do what it takes to help them win.”

Kipling’s words about steadfastness in the face of adversity:

“If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you”

Execution is the primal variable in success. Many restaurateurs have eloquent executive summaries and business plans, yet few are able to execute those plans and strategies under any economic condition. When the economic winds turn fierce everyone looks to the leader for direction. Follow Bob’s advice, keep it simple and focus on executing.