The Power of the Quick Win

February 5, 2009

Since I started here at Miva Direct, we’ve been pushing our team internally to execute in the most expeditious manner possible.  All hands on deck brainstorming sessions, long hours and full commitment from everyone involved. The results have been better than anyone could have expected with this down economy.  Here’s why;

Quick Wins

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The executive team spend a full day at an offsite meeting outlining the quickest way to generate our desired results (revenue) in the most efficient manner using all resources we have at our fingertips (ie, no new hires). It worked well, and we’re reaping the rewards as we approach mid-Q1

Here’s how we did it

1.      Made people believers not bystanders – we engaged the help of everyone from Account Managers to Directors and VP’s.  Everyone has had a hand in this success, and taken ownership.

2.      Understood uncertainty – Moving forward in this manner, we didn’t sugar coat things with the team. They understand the implications of this economy and understand they can have a hand in their own destiny.

3.      Show humility – The executive team has had to ask for help. Ideas that may not have been touched on during the meeting were add

4.      Learn about your team – We’ve had to ask people to take on roles and responsibilities that may not have been in their job description and this has been a huge success.  Our team is so talented. I’m surprised and impressed by them daily. We’ve given them the opportunity to shine.

 

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What we didn’t do – that could have destroyed our efforts: boss

1. Focus too heavily on details – we used the theory of Occam’s razor – or the Law of Economy.

2. Reacting negatively to criticism – We understood that we needed to improve. We put our heads down and did.

3. Intimidating others – We didn’t used idle threats to motivate. We enlisted the help of our teammates, and empowered them to move.

4. Jumping to conclusions – We stayed open to suggestions and guidance from the team, and didn’t assume anything.

5. Micromanaging – We trusted our people to execute.

Go get some quick wins!

We did..


Top Audiobooks I’m listening to now

November 12, 2008

Change Your Thoughts – Change Your Life: Living the Wisdom of the Tao

This may be a bit too “touchy feely” for some people, but Wayne Dyer is a bright guy, and  I love the way he applies the teachings of the Tao to everyday life.  I’ve read the Tao in a few different translations – the teachings are open to interpretation, and therefore mean different things to different people – but the Dr. adds his own (practical) spin to each. There’s great truth in his writing – so I give it a strong thumbs up.

Harvard Business Review on Leadership (Harvard Business Review Paperback Series)

I can never get enough of HBR. The quality of content is unsurpassed. I also recommend the HBR podcast (see below).  There’s nothing wrong with a daily dose of HBR.

Winning

Jack Welch’s book.  The most practical business book I’ve ever read (or listened to).  Jack’s no BS attitude can be abrasive, but he give some great insight on how to get things done, and how to produce results.  If you’re listening to the Audio book – take notes.  He offers some serious gems that you can apply to your work life today.

A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose (Oprah’s Book Club, Selection 61)

I recommend this book so strongly that I’ve given it as a gift to numerous friends and family.  I listened to it numerous times since the first listen about 6 months ago. It’s powerful on a few different levels, and will make you view the world in a new light. If you liked the Secret – you’ll love this.  Sort of the natural progression for anyone that felt a chord was struck in the Secret.   Strong recommendation.

Podcasts 

Best of YouTube 

Great to break up any monotonous commuting.  Careful though – you may find yourself laughing out loud while staring at your ipod.  Funny when you’re sitting with friends. Not so funny when you’re on the subway.  Although I’m sure a good conversation starter…

Harvard Business ideaCast

Part of my morning routine/toolbox.  Another one to take notes on.  Interviews with thought leaders in business.  The format is entertaining and informative. This is a must listen to….save the $$ on the HBR, and listen to this podcast daily. You won’t regret it.

Meditation Oasis

Guided Meditation. Helps if you feel like you need a helping hand to decompress.