This whole trust thing????

This has come up a number of times already and believe someone here brought this up as a key attribute. How important is trust for you in wanting to connect with others AND letting people connect with you?  

 Maxwell p.18 talks about "being authentic".  What does "being authentic" look like for you?  Since everyone is different how do you know if people are being authentic? 

Maxwell's book and questions for you!

The first thing I noticed about this book when we kicked around whether or not to include it in the program, was that it fit nicely with our contention that technical skills are critical but they only take you so far.  It's the people skills part that is required for maximum team effectiveness.  Maxwell calls this "connecting".  I also like that his language is replete with emotional intelligence references (perhaps unintended). 

One of my favorite parts of chapter two, comes on page 45 - Connecting in a Group, "input creates synergy, buy-in and connection".  This is not the sole responsibility of supervisors and managers.  Do you take time in group or team meetings to do this?  If so, how and what impact does it have?  If not, why not and what impact does that have? 

Non-fiction books you'd recommend?

Hi Everyone.

I thought I'd ask about non-fiction books you're currently reading or would recommend.

I think Tina mentioned a book by Richard Branson (was it Business Stripped Bare?--I remembered Branson's name, but not the title). If that's the book, would you recommend it?

One of two books I've enjoyed recently is Switch (2010) by Chip Heath and Dan Heath. It's a quick read, filled with some interesting examples of individuals who made significant changes in their organizations and communities.

Another book I enjoyed was Predictably Irrational (2010) by Dan Ariely. This is another quick read about all the irrational behaviors we have and the bad decisions we make and why.

So, if you'd like, share what non-fiction books you've read and enjoyed.

Note: For the above books, I've added links to Amazon.com in case you want to read more about them. The links are not referral links (some links give rewards to the referring site).

Reflective thinking

I thought I'd go out on a limb and be the first to post some reflective thinking.

First I'd like to share my answer to yesterday's Crown bag question of what am I most apprehensive about in the IE. Answer: the Emotional Intelligence part. I am an emotional person and emotions definitely play a part in what I do and how I perform my job. The positive aspect of that is I can be quite passionate about the work I am doing, it contributes to my tenacity and drive, and helps (I think) in fostering the great working relationships I have with so many. The negatives however are that I do take things to heart to much, and at times strong emotions are entwined in my actions or responses to situations. So while I believe the Emotional Intelligence tasks will absolutely be informative and beneficial, I fear the challenge and what will be learned.

And to further test opening myself up to the group :) I wanted to ask your thoughts on something. Last evening I was reflecting upon the fairly significant difference in my reaction to Dr. Lefton's talk and those of many others. I wonder if my having worked 27 years in public institutions, the last 22 of which have been here at KSU, contributes to the difference of opinions. How long I've worked here, and where I am in my career at KSU (i.e. fairly advanced vs starting out) seems like it might lend itself to the differing viewpoints.

Just some thoughts ...

Great to meet everyone

It was wonderful to meet everyone today, and to learn more about all (definitely gotta admire those who do mountain biking, mixed martial arts, marathon running, and similar non-slug like activities).

I look forward to the activities ahead (well, maybe not the debates) and filling the currently near empty three inch binder :)

Cheers,
Michelle

Almost there...

One more day.  I'm excited to see everyone tomorrow.  We kicked off the Administrator group last week and soon it will be your turn.  See you at 8! 

Chuck Close and you in 2011

So here is my question to you.  What does this image from artist Chuck Close, called Georgia, have to do with your development in the Institute for Excellence?  This is from the Butler Art Institute in Youngstown and I've stood right in front of this.  It's amazing.  Let me hear your theories on this one.  You'll find out next week.