Thinking Out Loud

Many (most?) of the books and articles written about how to be a good leader concentrate on some aspect of vulnerability — what it is and what it isn’t. Much of it encourages us to simply be more open with those we work with, to trust and share power. Here I want to talk about our humanity, not pretending that because we have attained a leadership position we have it all figured out: that we have all the answers and all the confidence. The truth is, we do not check our humanity at the door when we assume a position of leadership.  Read More

This the sixth year of Leadership Hancock County (http://leadhancock.org/) which begins on January 19th.  Deb Burwell and I have been the two instructors from the beginning.  We’ve developed a strong curriculum rooted in best practices, focusing on communication, decision-making, collaboration, conflict resolution, and networking.  Our host sites offer us opportunities to learn about different sectors of the economy, their vision and leadership challenges.  We have six diverse sites this winter and spring, and our participants cover a wide range of for-profit and non-profit organizations.

I’m truly looking forward to another great year!

When two leaders in an organization don’t get along, everyone knows it, even when there is no overt conflict or demonstrable rift. It’s as it is in families when parents think the kids are oblivious and, in fact, the kids are well aware if parental harmony shifts to discord.

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