Leadership takes many forms and today we mark the passing of a quiet but dignified leader. I think we saw a lovely example of how some leadership roles are more about guidance than ruling. Copied from Facebook, here is a lovely poem to say goodbye to a lovely regent…may she rest in peace Phillip cameContinue reading “RIP Queen Elizabeth II”
Author Archives: The Optimistic Cynic
Don’t call the experts!
Experts are great at developing steady, progressive changes. By building on today, they can massage tomorrow. I would argue however, if we want transformational change, the experts should be the last people we send in. The dictionary describes an expert as “a person who is very knowledgeable about or skilful in a particular area”. AtContinue reading “Don’t call the experts!”
I’ve listened so now I’m standing
Well, I’ve taken to plunge and I’m standing for the Cambridge Community Board at the local body elections. While I’ve always been interested, I hadn’t seriously considered standing before (those that know me will be fully aware that any sort of self-promotion doesn’t sit comfortably with me). So what changed my mind? Quite simply, severalContinue reading “I’ve listened so now I’m standing”
A new inductee to induction…
Over halfway through a six-week training/induction programme with Stats NZ. I’ve never had such an educational and long lead in time when starting a new job and it’s very different. Technically this is probably the perfect way to start a new job and certainly the research shows that a proper onboarding programme can make theContinue reading “A new inductee to induction…”
Will anyone actually die?
I just came across another fabulous quote from Peter Drucker. “There is nothing so useless as doing efficiently that which should not be done at all.” Sometimes instead of asking how we can do something better, maybe we should be asking ourselves what would happen if we didn’t do it at all. We should beContinue reading “Will anyone actually die?”
An awesome tool
The Ministry of Business Innovation & Employment has released a draft document on the future of business for New Zealand – and this is now open for consultation. One of the trends being examined is purpose led business – something that should be of interest to all of us. Have a read here and IContinue reading “An awesome tool”
It means the world…
Quite simply, having the right people beside you means the world. If you want to change the world, find those people who will not only advise you, but also provide motivation and mental nourishment. The right people (and coffee) can play a huge part toward your success.
Imagine
“Imagine a world where every person matters. A world full of caring work environments in which people can realize their gifts, apply and develop their talents, and feel a genuine sense of fulfilment for their contributions. Everyone should have the opportunity to use their gifts and talents toward a shared vision and everyone deserve toContinue reading “Imagine”
Solutions? – yes please…
Five tips for better solutions… In need of some solutions? Trust yourself to have the answers.
Sorry but I won’t work with you
We all talk about values in our organisation, but how often do we use them to turn work away? I was writing up a business plan for a start-up and following conventional advice, I was defining who the target audience was. I was nailing down a good description when it hit me. For an authenticallyContinue reading “Sorry but I won’t work with you”
The Optimistic Cynic 