Recently I sat down with a mentee in Sydney to have our periodic “learning conversation”. This is a reflective exercise that we both enjoy and gain value from. This young guy is what I would call a ‘Mover & Shaker’. He’s studying both law and economics. He is bright, ambitious, extremely curious and questions everything.
Executive development is widely regarded as a key to organisation success. Nowadays many boards set KPIs for their CEO with this in mind. Targets are set for the CEO’s own development as well as the senior team and up to 15% of the CEOs remuneration package is dependent on these targets being met.
Have you noticed how some people stand out as being generous of spirit? They attract us by their big smile, can-do attitude and going the extra mile without any expectations of benefit.
It’s like receiving a gift just being in their presence.
Three examples come to mind…
I recall sitting on the plane next to a former US Secretary of State who asked me what I did for a job. I told him I’m in the leadership business.
“I don’t consider myself to be a leader”, he quipped, “but I previously worked in the next office to four US Presidents and I noticed a few things.”
“What was the biggest insight you gained?”, I asked
“The taller they are, in terms of capability, the wider their shadow-side.” he replied.
"Something to chew on every Friday!"