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Can you share some business tips for our readers?
The first mistake that many make is to try to do it on their own. The Lone Ranger syndrome has killed more good companies that I can count. Surround yourself with the best advisors you can find, hire the very best and most experienced coach and work seriously with them and always demand the best from yourself and them.
Second, avoid the ‘do as I say not as I do ‘ crowd. People who have not done what they are telling you to do are inherently dangerous. I follow three rules. Never eat at a restaurant called Moms. Never play cards with a man whose nickname is Doc. And never live with a person whose problems are worse than your own.
The rules apply when it comes to your team. Stay away from personal relationships and focus on getting highly successful and experienced people in each slot. Get the best you can find. Successful people tend to generate more success. In my experience, the people who win big are those who tap into the capabilities and experience of very successful people.
Third, remember that whatever you do is first and foremost about your people. Avoid reducing them to tools that you use to attain your goals. CEOs particularly should spend a lot of time celebrating the achievements of their team members.
Fourth, always have a ‘clear light of day’ review process in place. It will keep you from drinking the Kool Ade. I recommend a semi-annual red-teaming of performance and planning. The composition of the red-team is critical. Get highly experienced and well connected professionals to review how well you are doing. As painful as it may be at first, the benefits will far outweigh the costs.
Can you share something that people might be surprised to learn about you?
As much as I love what I am doing, I would rather be fishing.
What’s next for you?
I have two novels in process plus volumes five and six of the CEO’s Handbook series. A journey into the realm of fiction has proven a fruitful distraction.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Life is too short to drink bad wine.
a href=”mailto:DrSmith@Dr-Smith.com”>Contact Dr. Smith
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The Federal Circle provides advisory services to companies working in the federal contracting space. Its core team and network of advisers has a deep understanding of the government contracting space. Together they represent a rich resource for companies trying to generate traction in these very competitive markets. Contact us for a free initial consultation.
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