Live righteously...

Today is Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year.  Depending on your beliefs, New Year comes on different dates… but they’re all essentially the same: a time for reflection, starting over, making resolutions, and trying to be better. Whether you say you can and will, or can’t and won’t, you’re usually right. While any day can be one of renewal, make whatever New Year you celebrate one in which you remember your values and try to live them in ways that promote positive thoughts, real commitment, ambitious goals, righteous actions, and the resolve to live them every day. Say “I can” to living a righteous life today.

Happy New Year.

Shimrit Adar is an Orthodox Jewish Zumba instructor in Brooklyn, New York

Look around...

It’s not easy being a manager: especially when being faced with things like up to 5 generations[1] in the workforce and a war for talent. 

·      There’s a lot of talk about how hard it is to manage Millennials and these new Centennials: stop worrying about that and find ways to communicate to all of your employees (they all appreciate straight talk and recognition).  

·      And, nearly everyone is working, making it harder to find good employees: stop worrying about low unemployment and find ways to either retain the employees you have or look for additional pools of applicants (like seniors, retirees, veterans, persons with disabilities, and people looking for a second chance). 

I’ve been in HR for nearly 50 years and have listened to managers grumble about these kinds of issues that whole time. Here’s the deal: there are always better ways to deal with the challenges you face… you just have to find them: talk to others, search the Internet, and boldly adopt the ones you find and like. Don’t let yourself get stuck thinking about problems when you can find solutions today.

Thomas Alva Edison (1847 – 1931): American inventor and businessman who has been described as America's greatest inventor

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·      [1] Gen Z, iGen, or Centennials: Born 1996 – TBD.

·      Millennials or Gen Y: Born 1977 – 1995.

·      Generation X: Born 1965 – 1976.

·      Baby Boomers: Born 1946 – 1964.

·      Traditionalists or Silent Generation: Born 1945 and before.

Get better...

Every year around this time I get a chest cold that lingers: this usually comes with the change of seasons and requires a few trips to see a doctor. As we all know, medical care is changing, and more often than not these visits are to an urgent care center: they’re better than emergency rooms and easier to schedule than an appointment with a primary care physician. I used to dread those visits: they were often crowded, chaotic and slow. With this week’s cold I had to go to two different ones in two different states: I wasn’t sure what I’d find. Surprisingly, they were great: their online apps made getting an appointment simple and easy, follow up was done via lots of text messages, and even facilitated a patient survey. At one, I had to go twice, and they not only reused all the original data, but the receptionist and the PA remembered my name without any apparent prompting. Someone in each of those facilities obviously focused all their energy on creating new and effective practices, both online and in-office: it was a surprising change, one that made getting medical help a much better experience than in the past. The moral of this story: focus all of your energy on finding and implementing innovations today.

Socrates (469-399): Classical Grecian Philosopher

Service matters...

I’ve spent the last 8 days traveling and flying in and out of too many airports. Some airports had comfortable chairs and others provided chair massages, and all had sundry shops and food outlets. There’s little else to do while waiting for a flight than frequent those amenities where, to my eye, the only difference between them is the extent to which any of the employees have a clue about customer service and satisfaction.  These encounters seemed meaningless to most of those employees because they know they’ll never see the same customers again.  But there were some exceptions and they will be the ones I remember, comment about, and look for if I travel through that airport in the future.  Unfortunately, both good and bad experiences can be found throughout the service industry. The difference: good service employees love the action and continually swim hard to satisfy customers while the disengaged one’s float like dead fish down a stream. If you’re a hiring manager: look for innovative ways to recognize and reward your good employees; if you’re a customer: be sure to thank the live and engaged ones today.

William Claude Dukenfield (1880 – 1946): better known as W. C. Fields, was a very unique American comedian, actor, juggler, and writer

Dream on...

The other night I saw a commercial on TV while watching a football game: it was about a Chevy truck that has a new back-up camera that allows the driver to see over, around and behind the trailer it was towing. There are lots of commercials on TV, but every now and then one that features a new product or idea like this catches our eye and imagination. While some technological innovations are truly amazing, most new products or ideas are far more utilitarian.  They’re the result of people looking at the things they use or do, thinking how to make them better, and getting that concept onto a canvas in their imagination. If you’ve got a new idea, think it through, bounce if off your colleagues, and try it out: don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t come together immediately… the good ones take time, patience, and perseverance.  Stay focused and positive, and believe in the strength of your imagination: that’s how innovation can happen in your world today.   

Henry David Thoreau (1817 – 1862): American essayist, poet, philosopher and transcendentalist,

Be the difference...

There are lots of small restaurants near our summer home: the menus are all basically the same but the finished plates are not. After ordering a basic hamburger at several of these establishments, I recently found one that stood out as distinctly better than all the others.  This is not uncommon: the market is filled with lots of similar products, some of which are made markedly better by the people responsible for making, delivering, selling or servicing them. The cook who makes that burger I like so much told me he personally feels responsible for it being that good: he knows it’s a very competitive market and is committed to making his burgers the reason why people eat at his restaurant rather than somewhere else.  Every business is only as good as its people: that’s why it’s so important to make each and every employee feel that they can make a difference. Inspire your team to act as if what they do will make a difference today.

William James (1842 – 1910): American philosopher and psychologist, and the first educator to offer a psychology course in the United States

Buckle down...

Great things are created by people who work hard to make them happen: it takes vision,  attention to detail, and a healthy dose of courage to transform a dream into a successful reality. Some ideas are big and flashy, others small but equally impactful: what’s common among them all is that they’re game changers. Who would have thought that little yellow pads with glue at the top of each page would change the way we worked, or that Hot Pockets and microwaves could change the way we eat, or that e-sports would evolve out of the video games we tried to get our kids to stop playing, or that cellphones could become more powerful than the computers that put a man on the moon? Tomorrow’s next big thing probably hasn’t been thought of yet… but there’s someone out there running the idea and numbers around in their head and getting excited about becoming the next Steve Jobs. If you have a good idea, don’t be shy about working hard to make it happen today.

Estée Lauder (1906 – 2004): American businessperson, co-founder of her eponymous cosmetics company, and one of the 20 most influential business geniuses of the 20th century

Take a vacation...

“Life wants you to touch, taste and see the grandeur of the world's unfathomable variety.”Bryant McGill

We’re fortunate to be able to spend our summers in the Adirondack Park: it's 6.1 million acres include more than 10,000 lakes, 30,000 miles of rivers and streams, and a wide variety of habitats including wetlands and old-growth forests. We kayak the lakes and streams, hike the trails, and take leisurely rides along country roads: every day is an opportunity to enjoy the beauty that surrounds us. As this summer comes to an end, I’m reminded that back in the day when I was working, the vacation time I earned didn’t seem all that important. But, as I’ve grown older, I appreciate the importance and appropriateness to take time to “smell the roses”. We all get caught up in our work and forget the value of recharging our batteries and perspectives: that revitalized energy is where so many great ideas and initiatives come from. There are scenic parks and beautiful areas everywhere, places where you can vacation, enjoy your surroundings, and find renewal. Make time to touch, taste and see the grandeur of nature’s unfathomable variety today.

Bryant McGill (b. 1969): American human potential thought leader, international bestselling author, activist, and social entrepreneur

Let the music move you...

Like many, I am a diehard fan of the sport teams of my youth: those loyalties were formed while watching games with family and friends. It didn’t matter if the teams won or lost, we supported them no matter what: it was based on ethos more than ego. This kind of deep-seated commitment is the holy grail that recruiters of athletes and employees look for in those they seek to join their team or company. As a kid I remember Giant’s players like Tittle, Gifford, Robustelli and Huff as larger than life: they played with heart, and that meant a lot. So, when Eli Manning was drafted 15 years ago and all but retired yesterday, I cheered for the type of individual he was: one who worked hard, never complained, always supported the team, and constantly helped others to be better. Football teams have playbooks – documenting in exacting detail what every player does on any specific play: sort of like the job description we use at work… the notes, if you will. The successful ones have that individual and collective ethos that creates greatness: it’s the music that fills the space between those notes. Be a music maker today.

Claude Debussy (1862 – 1918): French composer

Get going...

My consulting partner and I often work with companies that are undergoing extensive change.  While seeking our assistance, they often want to move quickly in order to get it over with, move on and get back to normal: the problem is that people need time to process change in order to understand and adapt to any new normal. So, our first job is to get them to slow down and develop a plan for moving forward. Change takes careful planning – it’s too easy to overlook the many ways it can impact someone’s security and trust; lots of communicating – with just the right amount of listening, understanding, empathizing, and answering questions; and careful implementation – stick to the plan because it’s doubly disruptive to undo what might have been too quickly or insensitively done. Don’t try to do it all at once – it’s usually too complex and getting it right is better than doing it fast. Don’t obsess with getting it perfect… that can be the enemy of progress. And don’t forget that a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.  Be careful with change today.

Lao Tzu (4^thcentury BC): Chinese philosopher and writer whose name literally meant “Old Master”

Try your best...

Everything we do – both big and small – is important and deserves equal effort and attention. I see that often here in the mountains as fellow cabin owners and I work tirelessly to maintain our rustic rural residences. It’s a relatively harsh environment here and these places are stressed by nature and weather: roofs, windows and wells all are affected by the hard winters and need to be checked and maintained regularly. Often the wear and tear is not major, but if left unattended can result in major problems. Like many do-it-yourselfers, I try my best to do what’s needed: those efforts are often less than perfect, but usually better than nothing. With these and the countless other things we attempt in life and at work, it’s important to always do your best: even if those efforts are less than perfect or fail, they’re usually better than doing nothing at all. And, sometimes, great results are achieved. Try your best today.

Robert Harold Schuller (1926 – 2015): American Christian televangelist, pastor, motivational speaker, and author

Live strong...

It seems that there are more and more older athletes in professional sports these days: people like Rafael Nadal and Venus Williams in tennis, Tom Brady in football, Brad Friedel in soccer, and Donna Vano in skateboarding and snowboarding. We love these favorite athletes and learn much from them: like the importance of staying in shape physically and mentally, and the ability to continue on long after anyone thought we could. Much the same is true in the business world: people are taking better care of themselves, continually learning new things, and living and working longer. This provides a unique opportunity for companies to benefit from the experience of their older workers, and for older employees to continue to work and contribute. There’s much to be said for the stability, knowledge, maturity and skills that come with age: this group is less volatile, more flexible, has fewer disruptions, can mentor others, and continue to fill rosters in this time of record low unemployment.  Most people are getting older than they used to be – that’s not unusual; but the good news is that many of us are feeling younger and businesses should take full advantage of that  today.

“My Back Pages” is a song written by Bob Dylan and recorded by the American folk-rock music group The Byrds

       Today is Friday the 13^th– go howl at tonight’s full moon.

Believe in yourself...

Most of us grew up wanting to do and be more, and surrounded ourselves with friends, colleagues, co-workers, teammates and others to help make that happen. We watched: learning and emulating other’s actions; we were mentored: shown how by those who’d been there and done that; we practiced: figuring out how; we performed: often, beyond our wildest expectations; and we went farther than we might have ever expected. We did all of that because we could, and believed anything was possible: that’s one benefit of being part of a group or team. They provide good coaches – those who help people focus on the process of self-improvement, and mentors – those who serve as sounding boards and guides. Have the courage to seek help to be and do more; if asked, lend an ear to listen and a  shoulder to lean on.  Believe that there can be something more today.

"Home Again in My Heart" is a song written by Josh Leo and Wendy Waldman, and recorded by American country music group Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

9/11 memories...

“If we learn nothing else from this tragedy, we learn that life is short and there is no time for hate.”Sandy Dahl

No matter what else we’re talking about or doing, the tragic 9/11 events that occurred on this date 18 years ago demand we stop, reflect and pray. 

No matter where you were on that day, you remember exactly what you were doing and who you were with at 8:46am when you heard about those attacks. 

And no matter who you are, you’ve hopefully learned that life is short and there is no time for hate. 

Take a moment to think about what’s important in your life today.

Amen.

Sandy Dahl, wife of Flight 93 pilot Jason Dahl

Open your eyes...

“Some roads lead on, from what you know… to what you need to find.” Bill McKay

Let me try something different: several of this week’s ‘quotes’ will actually be some interesting lyrics from songwriters I admire. Today’s talks about being bold enough to learn new things and see life differently: whether working alone or being part of a team, we all need to be open to upgrading our skills and updating our moves. Complacency can quickly take hold if we get comfortable with our habits: carelessly thinking we always know what’s needed can present opportunities for our competition. Not that everything needs to be changed, but those things that do absolutely should; remember to stay focused because just because you can doesn’t always mean you should. Leaders can always command, but the most effective ones also listen; superstars can always perform, but the good ones also bring out the best in others; and top performers can always get the work done, but the great ones also ‘up’ everyone’s performance. Start with what you know and look for what you need to improve your knowledge, skills and abilities today.

“Some Roads Lead On” is a song written by Bill McKay and recorded by American Bluegrass Band Della Mae

Go Team...

For many, yesterday was the annual start of a new American football season: players young and old began the campaign for this year’s championship. Like any sporting program, those playing have to be aligned with the team’s values and goals, not to mention in synch on every play. Businesses often operate similarly, employing all the planning, training, concentration and teamwork in their work that teams use in their play. If everyone’s expectations and actions are aligned with reality, no one will be disappointed.  Some may win while others lose – that’s natural; but all will be focused on the work (or play) at hand.  Yesterday, my favorite team, the NY Giants, lost to the Dallas Cowboys, but it was a good game; likewise, Daniil Medvedev lost to Rafael Nadal in tennis’ US Open, but no matter who you might have been rooting for, it was an exciting championship match.  If good, sporting events like these improve fan satisfaction: similarly, good work and service improve customer satisfaction. Get aligned to perform at your best today.

Terrell Owens (1973): American football wide receiver who played in the National Football League for 16 seasons

Get your head around being your best...

Absenteeism continues to be the #1 reason that employees get terminated. Many absentees are actually sick or have some other unexpected need or problem, and these need to be allowed for; but there’s a general impression that some are absent because they just don’t feel like working that day. Supervisors have to be personally and actively engaged in talking to employees about the need for good attendance: even though we think this may be self-evident, it needs to continually be stressed. Recognize those who have excellent attendance: even though that seems like rewarding what’s expected, it sends the message that you realize the importance and benefit of being there on time, every scheduled day. Consider ways to be accommodating: job sharing, flexible scheduling, shift swapping, and even appropriate over-staffing help meet these needs. Maintain a culture where your employees work together and feel free to openly discuss these kinds of issues with you: let them know you’re aware and care. And, for sure, diligently follow sound corrective action policies and practices when employees act like they just don’t care enough to come to work. Do what’s needed to make everyone feel like working today.

Alistair Cooke (1908 – 2004): British writer, journalist, television personality, and radio broadcaster 

Don't ever be afraid to try...

People around here fish a lot: these lakes and streams are made for that. Me: I fish too, but I’m not in their league – they’re self-described professionals, with favorite fishing spots and special lures. As a recruiter, I can’t help seeing this favorite pastime in terms of finding and hiring great applicants: I’m a professional recruiter and know it’s best to go looking where you’ve found good prospects before, use your best qualities and values to attract them, set your lines expertly, and learn how to ‘reel them in’. I know most companies and hiring managers think there’s a dearth of good applicants, but maybe that’s because they don’t really know where and how to recruit effectively.  Don’t leave recruiting to chance: track where your best employees come from, have a plan to visit those sources regularly, talk to industry colleagues to learn about their practices, and then get personally engaged in casting your recruiting net creatively and appropriately. Great applicants can always be found… sometimes in places where you least expect it. Make a plan to successfully fish for them today.

Ovid (43-18): Roman Poet

Plan for change...

Many of the businesses here in the Adirondacks saw a significant decline in customers and staff during the last week: Labor Day is the unofficial end of summer as families go home and kids go back to school. The business owners hope now for a great Indian summer and fall color season, and then wait out another lull until the winter attracts snowmobilers. They plan for these changes as best they can but the up and down volumes are always a challenge: they just have to adapt to the business cycles that are waiting for them: they work hard, and take what time off they can find between the busy and slow times. Most businesses experience swings in business levels – they are the times to get things done that have been put off, study new trends, plan for changes, and re-commit to colleagues and customers. Don’t let down when business slows down: that’s when professionals show their true talents. Be flexible and smart in how you deal with life’s changes today.

Edward Morgan Forster (1879 – 1970): English novelist, short story writer, essayist and librettist: many of his novels examined class difference and hypocrisy.

Live by the Golden Rule...

Whenever I start a new consulting engagement, I usually start by asking for a company’s employee handbook: that’s a good way to check on their values and rules. Most focus on things employees should NOT do… too few articulate what they SHOULD do. Like: attendance policies – I realize it’s hard to determine what’s allowable or not, but most of the policies I see don’t even try. I realize it’s difficult to decide what’s allowable or not, so we opt for unequivocal and non-judgmental policies; but it’s not that simple and nobody wants to get into those kinds of sticky discussions. We should start with core values – like the topics I write about here, and remind employees to apply those to the things they do at work. I’d like to believe that with professionals you could leave it at that.  Managers talking about how t0 comply with the company’s values – like being honest and living the Golden Rule -  are the best ways to convey expectations and standards. Look at your policies and find ways to let reason prevail today.

Jean de la Bruyère (1645 – 1696): French philosopher and moralist, who was noted for his satire

Thank you...

Most of my career I worked in a 24/7 business and I always respected the dedication of those who worked on holidays. As a senior leader I could have taken off, but my colleagues and I always opted to work those days, thanking those who were scheduled for being there and making the kind of sacrifice that honored our business and its customers. If you have off on one or more of these family centric days, I hope you respect and thank those who have to get up and go to work. If you are one of the many who are scheduled today, thank you, and Happy Labor Day.

Stephen King (b. 1947): American author of horror, supernatural fiction, suspense, science fiction, and fantasy novels