tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62489478632845877262024-02-20T04:30:10.392-06:00Great Leaders Build Strong RelationshipsRelationships abound in life. A great leader (home, business, school) is someone that masters them. Learn what destroys and what builds successful relationships.Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.comBlogger60125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-1066119857659303212013-09-21T17:28:00.001-05:002013-09-21T17:28:06.569-05:00Leadership & HypocrisyLeaders who not only preach one thing and do another take it to a whole other level when they teach others what they should be demonstrating.<div><br></div><div>There aren't very many "relational leaders" out there. Here are a few basic actions that to me, describe what a relational leader (rl) looks like:</div><div><br></div><div>They care about their staff outside the 9-5 window.</div><div><br></div><div>They are the first to admit a fault.</div><div><br></div><div>They don't expect others to do what they don't do.</div><div><br></div><div>They give frequent recognition, especially in public.</div><div><br></div><div>They treat everyone in the same manner.</div><div><br></div><div>This is certainly not an exhaustive list but some of the major items. I hope to addore soon.</div><div><br></div><div>Steven</div><div><br></div><div><br><div><br><div><br></div><div><br></div></div></div>Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-15805672245658052912012-10-03T10:16:00.000-05:002012-10-03T10:16:00.424-05:00LONG DELAY POSTINGSorry gang, I seem to be spending more time posting on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/smenzel5 and Twitter at https://twitter.com/smenzel5Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-88682371862527895302011-12-26T18:46:00.000-06:002011-12-26T18:46:39.605-06:00Character plus Competence equals ConsistencyCharacter First is thrilled to offer character-based solutions for many of today's issues. Everything from workplace stress and dealing with difficult people to effective communications and business etiquette. Visit us at www.characterfirst.com or call me at 405-623-2274 cellSteven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-38916873248676261912011-02-01T20:09:00.003-06:002011-02-01T20:16:15.236-06:00Character & Competence!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxAUWq_1F_no77ZHbHa-tiMiWmcvbckpXbFf0ZTHJuNFly82q987HQQofpI6fKZuGLRhD4SnTFHrkniPiZPAGtcLfL_AWLhZWnXJxXRKQ_jXT_ya5Cz3PnL1H3MnvXnJ_oDIDBdvxRGoJ7/s1600/diploma.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 170px; height: 113px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxAUWq_1F_no77ZHbHa-tiMiWmcvbckpXbFf0ZTHJuNFly82q987HQQofpI6fKZuGLRhD4SnTFHrkniPiZPAGtcLfL_AWLhZWnXJxXRKQ_jXT_ya5Cz3PnL1H3MnvXnJ_oDIDBdvxRGoJ7/s200/diploma.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568910205316528770" border="0" /></a><br />So many organizations focus on training, skills, certifications, degrees, experience, knowledge, and abilities when hiring, placement, and promotion. Why is it when you have to correct or even terminate someone it is almost always character related?Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-81450058959614677472011-01-09T11:26:00.000-06:002011-01-09T11:27:57.828-06:00Amazon two day promotion - January 11-12Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-7928673886492887072010-12-23T08:18:00.002-06:002010-12-23T08:22:56.524-06:00The Character Solution<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3OV_8R4rDAKhigrfQF7TCuDOGRWuMak2NYI5tgfCH9ZlQh92mzt-VblwR6S7qP2-DZmaSmJf56F2TxxY1ZbQ7e_bz8ohkb6su4DAKWJ-HqFEqbiXtNHvgrpEQxWrXYOYyuHH25oe09obP/s1600/Making-Character-First_medium.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 87px; height: 125px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3OV_8R4rDAKhigrfQF7TCuDOGRWuMak2NYI5tgfCH9ZlQh92mzt-VblwR6S7qP2-DZmaSmJf56F2TxxY1ZbQ7e_bz8ohkb6su4DAKWJ-HqFEqbiXtNHvgrpEQxWrXYOYyuHH25oe09obP/s200/Making-Character-First_medium.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553882026767953314" border="0" /></a><br />There is a way to lead your team to greatness. There is hope, and there can be a light at the end of the tunnel that isn't a train. The problems we face are frequently <span style="font-style: italic;">personal character <span style="font-style: italic;">issues </span></span>that cannot be solved with programs, techniques, or more hours at the office. Creating a culture of character within our organization is the solution to many of these challenges. Fortunately, there is a way to make this transformation that has been tried and proven in a myriad of arenas. (from "Making Character First" page 2)Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-75080934664372978602010-12-13T10:22:00.002-06:002010-12-13T10:26:48.736-06:00Why write a book?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz49FBnv82iiJYxMqOst6csotJHSPqpakdJev-WIPZOzx0TNL6zu1yTRFTbmJkwxrn1n8vVLw99uyd9zOk1XnkO_vxQkQbz5y60uAZoGqjPMs2CxpuMnsiP1DGd9tYTbBJilvIgthInrXH/s1600/Making-Character-First_medium.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 140px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz49FBnv82iiJYxMqOst6csotJHSPqpakdJev-WIPZOzx0TNL6zu1yTRFTbmJkwxrn1n8vVLw99uyd9zOk1XnkO_vxQkQbz5y60uAZoGqjPMs2CxpuMnsiP1DGd9tYTbBJilvIgthInrXH/s200/Making-Character-First_medium.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550203100908718434" border="0" /></a><br />Tom Hill began his business career in 1971 at Kimray, Inc., a prominent manufacturer of oil and gas equipment and controls. He served as an engineer, Executive President, President, and is currently Chairman of the Board. He founded Character First in 1992 to help Kimray employees be successful. Since then, Character First has spread to businesses and other organizations in over 34 countries. Tom is a regularly invited speaker on character and ethics in business. Learn more at www.makingcharacterfirst.comSteven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-5351390747887869532010-12-12T13:54:00.005-06:002010-12-13T08:48:21.875-06:00The book is here, "Making Character First"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRAgFibFrPbZU0OXZXG9MYEIqrOy8qwccIw2Bs57_X6ywf9XsmCwRl2vZZ45W4Zy7v03j5vXMoTnKacw_t1b6pU5A7HBGRvCIK3O1UqqFw9ZxesY_-cKelO1cuRyJMLbbw2mDOR2-Mt65K/s1600/Making-Character-First_medium.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 168px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRAgFibFrPbZU0OXZXG9MYEIqrOy8qwccIw2Bs57_X6ywf9XsmCwRl2vZZ45W4Zy7v03j5vXMoTnKacw_t1b6pU5A7HBGRvCIK3O1UqqFw9ZxesY_-cKelO1cuRyJMLbbw2mDOR2-Mt65K/s400/Making-Character-First_medium.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550178760522346850" border="0" /></a><br />BIG NEWS!!!!! Making Character First is here! Check out this link and come back soon for excerpts from the book.<br />http://www.characterfirst.comSteven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-22074660177425359982010-09-22T12:36:00.003-05:002010-09-22T12:40:17.503-05:00Why do some many managers lead like a drill sergeant?For three years I was a drill sergeant in the United States Air Force. I found it very easy to demand action and to enforce consequences if they failed to do so. What was hard was doing this while keeping their hearts. A great leader knows how to mold someone into a better person without crushing them.Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-19975007386893836922010-08-21T08:52:00.002-05:002010-08-21T08:58:37.235-05:00Hire for Character, Train for Skills!We, out of necessity, must look outside the proverbial "box" when hiring today. For many years we have had most of the focus on an applicants skills, i.e. degrees, certifications, grades, etc. Once hired, we assumed they had the Integrity we expected. It is time to divert some of those hiring energies into investigating the foundation to all skills, character.<br /><br />I pose a simple question, what good is a master's degree from the prestigious Harvard Business School (4.7 GPA) if the person does not show up (dependability) for work? Where is the ROI when you spend many months training a person that you have to fire or they quit? Even worse, what do you do when this great hire becomes your worst nightmare and negatively impacts the whole team? What you do is wish you could turn the clock back so you could "not" hire them.<br /><br />Let's start emphasizing the importance of character at the start of the hiring process. Begin by holding yourself to a higher standard, fix your mistakes (like I'm sorry), and start celebrating other people when they make right choices, i.e. Character.<br /><br />Character is so important the new dean of the Harvest Business School recently shared the focus at this great school. Competence and Character.<br /><br />Take a look at the sample hiring guide here.<br /> http://www.characterfirst.com/assets/Files/CharacterHiring.pdfSteven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-62728021621589103482010-06-22T22:24:00.002-05:002010-07-25T18:41:25.377-05:00Character First Membership Program, Benefit (#3)Use the Character First Member Organization logo on your website. Tell the world why character is important to your company but more importantly, tell them what you are doing about it.<br />Members will receive our new member logo and we, Character First, will post your companies logo on our website. When someone wants to find an organization in a specific industry, we can share who is doing something positive about their character culture.Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-3072034137391087032010-05-15T19:13:00.003-05:002010-05-15T19:23:05.516-05:00My son Mike<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6Y0zylZsbyDtFviaXhffVxhn9WP6pLnYSdJBj5HwRtB-lKtr_bfR9quhDN5vpt5vQxFItfQ1MO0I1NcsFNWN6NIEggY4QpmhURgrVY-uzgwmGkmVwsRPuZkVmyxJTR-G-oRYKVWCaiOl/s1600/photo-752903.jpg">This was taken during a game against the two time state champions. Mike scored 32 points during this game and thrilled the spectators with daring drives.</a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6Y0zylZsbyDtFviaXhffVxhn9WP6pLnYSdJBj5HwRtB-lKtr_bfR9quhDN5vpt5vQxFItfQ1MO0I1NcsFNWN6NIEggY4QpmhURgrVY-uzgwmGkmVwsRPuZkVmyxJTR-G-oRYKVWCaiOl/s1600/photo-752903.jpg"><br /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6Y0zylZsbyDtFviaXhffVxhn9WP6pLnYSdJBj5HwRtB-lKtr_bfR9quhDN5vpt5vQxFItfQ1MO0I1NcsFNWN6NIEggY4QpmhURgrVY-uzgwmGkmVwsRPuZkVmyxJTR-G-oRYKVWCaiOl/s1600/photo-752903.jpg">Once again, I sent this from my iPhone now that I can blog from my phone. Cool!!!!!<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6Y0zylZsbyDtFviaXhffVxhn9WP6pLnYSdJBj5HwRtB-lKtr_bfR9quhDN5vpt5vQxFItfQ1MO0I1NcsFNWN6NIEggY4QpmhURgrVY-uzgwmGkmVwsRPuZkVmyxJTR-G-oRYKVWCaiOl/s320/photo-752903.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471654560844228546" border="0" /></a></p><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-66283016389028244032010-04-30T06:41:00.003-05:002010-06-22T22:23:09.620-05:00Character First Membership Benefit (#2)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxhf_afYx2DH6JrwLc1Xtm1i2i4SxuvW5lBojOMub9-9B44QClIBll4kjX2W2XNnSc6doYrxVxcvo2GmOo-6Woa3nw6Vmz081Vrt8vZV7in73TfCOV3tgBpPB_4N8U6caxTE3mGQWvoKku/s1600/books.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 128px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxhf_afYx2DH6JrwLc1Xtm1i2i4SxuvW5lBojOMub9-9B44QClIBll4kjX2W2XNnSc6doYrxVxcvo2GmOo-6Woa3nw6Vmz081Vrt8vZV7in73TfCOV3tgBpPB_4N8U6caxTE3mGQWvoKku/s400/books.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471652065508503090" border="0" /></a><br />Actually, this should be benefit number one. We are looking for organizations where character is already important.<br /><br />You already understand that a good reputation trumps the bottom line, that your people are your greatest asset, and integrity is priceless, we need to connect.<br /><br />If you want to make a lasting impact on your community by uniting with other organizations with similar goals and direction, a Character First Membership is a great way to go.<input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-14566666830670683242010-04-07T10:58:00.004-05:002010-04-07T11:07:42.935-05:00Character First Membership Program (#1)<span style="font-weight: bold;">I plan to share with everyone the "NEW" Character First Membership Program and the benefits of joining. Here is reason #1:</span><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoC8Yq5z1nG3-JpiyEJ7oYoPhGMbnU2d0kMiDokiy3fq3xLyBrwYm9TVLUqlMj-VIVHdA2Y17r4tQNP9W9RfzTT7nNERpoCXrcoNdrWK0McIT0QdMiml9zIl3vP6sOlGeOYKTcerlkPhMy/s1600/2010.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 60px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoC8Yq5z1nG3-JpiyEJ7oYoPhGMbnU2d0kMiDokiy3fq3xLyBrwYm9TVLUqlMj-VIVHdA2Y17r4tQNP9W9RfzTT7nNERpoCXrcoNdrWK0McIT0QdMiml9zIl3vP6sOlGeOYKTcerlkPhMy/s400/2010.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457426782018308722" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Use this new logo on your website and literature. Your customers and clients can click on this link so they can read more about what is important to your organization. How much value is there in sharing how truthfulness, dependability, and thoroughness are to your company? What if we help you show "the world" not only what you believe but what you are "doing" to improve your products and services.<br /><br />We are just kicking off this new program so take a look at our newest members.<br />http://www.characterfirst.com/programs/members/<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-55699316817289093032010-02-16T13:59:00.002-06:002010-02-16T14:03:38.741-06:00Character First! has changed!!!!Stay connected on my blog. Over the next several weeks or maybe a few months I will be updating everyone on the "amazing" changes at Character First.<br /><br />In the mean time, check out our website!<br /><a href="http://characterfirst.com">CharacterFirst.com</a><br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-83821322486141895852009-11-14T19:57:00.006-06:002009-11-29T22:56:03.936-06:00The Art of Building Relationships<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZmpmDefIPRduUI-ULHmTpc9dLR63jlQTJkkTYWN0BXXj7w7TpK1jzkLEk42gElSy43AtX9Lt2kEsdXo_1k-JZlD7-DlWgbukjW5nurzgMmv829LmQ0BgeVDVusawb2CjUQoFRdNBOYSN8/s1600-h/books.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 128px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZmpmDefIPRduUI-ULHmTpc9dLR63jlQTJkkTYWN0BXXj7w7TpK1jzkLEk42gElSy43AtX9Lt2kEsdXo_1k-JZlD7-DlWgbukjW5nurzgMmv829LmQ0BgeVDVusawb2CjUQoFRdNBOYSN8/s400/books.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404148621442640082" border="0" /></a><br />When you ask people, what is the foundation of good relationships? I often hear, "trust." Trust is so important that Stephen M. R. Covey wrote a great book titled, The Speed of Trust."<br /><br />I agree, trust is a huge part but there is something even more foundational. If you don't believe me, try removing this from any relationships in your life and see what happens.<br /><br />What am I talking about? Communications!!!<br /><br />If communication is important what should it look like? Better yet, what should it not be like?<br /><br />Consistent, accurate, regular, open, are just a few key words.<br /><br />When a military battle plan is drawn up the first objective is to knockout the enemies communications. More effective than precise reconnaissance or carpet bombing, if communication lines are cut, everything quickly falls apart.<br /><br />Come back for more suggestions on the power of communications.Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-86681219226121558052009-10-15T10:18:00.003-05:002009-10-15T11:34:51.446-05:00Anger On The Rise!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmiryTzm9dHn9gCXH03D_SWH7OPdR6Kkh6J18A1TxuMExhldrwjPUV4ytdfbwfoFZi5c-IEujElt8bi-5tDxTct4aWisvaHZ5cvVNuEI0qSIJvdS4UjF5TlzSK7lyYLt4TwBfCVM1NO8-/s1600-h/anger4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 170px; height: 113px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmiryTzm9dHn9gCXH03D_SWH7OPdR6Kkh6J18A1TxuMExhldrwjPUV4ytdfbwfoFZi5c-IEujElt8bi-5tDxTct4aWisvaHZ5cvVNuEI0qSIJvdS4UjF5TlzSK7lyYLt4TwBfCVM1NO8-/s400/anger4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392865914737293938" border="0" /></a><br />Have you all noticed how angry people are getting? Just yesterday morning I watched a report about a 15-year old boy that was set on fire by a group of other teens. When these teens were questioned by the police, several of them laughed and joked about it. ARE YOU KIDDING ME?<br /><br />Two people in a Boston McDonald's were so upset that their large fry order was delivered as a small fry that one threw their change in the cashier's face and the other one threw yellow "wet floor" signs hitting a second cashier.Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-16005295126005357412009-09-28T22:07:00.002-05:002009-09-28T22:29:42.627-05:0010 Nations and 11 States Attend the Character First! Networking ConferenceUganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Romania, Philippines, New Zealand, South Africa, Canada, Taiwan, Trinidad/Tobago, and 11 US States attended the Character First! Networking Conference in Oklahoma City. The schedule was full of dynamic speakers and helpful information.<br /><br />One of the most exciting things was an idea shared by one of the Ugandan delegates. They asked if a US Character Council would be willing to partner with them to assist in building a Character Council in Uganda.<br /><br />We were all so thrilled to hear such a great idea. We immediately hooked them up with the Fort Collins Colorado Character Council which had 4 members in attendance.<br /><br />Watch this blog for more details soon!Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-46033931032069503852009-08-17T19:09:00.004-05:002009-08-17T19:20:24.170-05:00Why Be an Ethical Company?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFX_hmoYXAOp-r4XpXf02AaImvPYjnCi50qrUz3d1_iJHgDVJ69qLytzNwZS0qFl31fmxAjrIyehBCrbTTxBr2oO9ucVKjMAlqqfAC9RbYTq6kHBcKz1uCzn2MU26KD0FPPLzzSO2HU8B9/s1600-h/Compass.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 170px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 125px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371091685186959826" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFX_hmoYXAOp-r4XpXf02AaImvPYjnCi50qrUz3d1_iJHgDVJ69qLytzNwZS0qFl31fmxAjrIyehBCrbTTxBr2oO9ucVKjMAlqqfAC9RbYTq6kHBcKz1uCzn2MU26KD0FPPLzzSO2HU8B9/s400/Compass.jpg" /></a><br /><div>I just read an interesting article titled, "Why Be an Ethical Company? They're Stronger and Last Longer". This was a focus on short-term profits to the exclusion of all else led to the current financial crisis. And guess what? Companies with the steadiest moral compasses have sailed through it.<br /><br />Here is the first paragraph:<br /><br /><span style="color:#000066;"><em>With everyone still buzzing about the outrageous bonuses Wall Street continues to pay, it seems like now might be a good time to write a column about ethics. No, I don't want to write another article calling greedy bankers unethical. Plenty of pundits have already done that. Rather, I'd like to speculate on why some executives are so greedy, the role it played in their downfall, and how an inability to change organizational mindsets will probably lead to future banking crises. I'd also like to go beyond Wall Street and examine ethics in the broader context of American business. By Vivek Wadhwa </em> <strong><a href="http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/aug2009/tc20090816_435499.htm">READ MORE</a></strong></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#000000;"></span></div>Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-29444835058143341312009-08-06T22:41:00.004-05:002009-08-17T19:09:06.715-05:00The Power of ChoicesNothing builds a person's character more deeply then a long line of choices. Here is a simple analogy:<br />You need to be at work by 8am. Well, first we must discuss "at work." What does this mean? Are you officially "at work" if you pull in the parking lot at 7:55am? No? Certainly you are "at work" if you walk in the door by 7:59am! Not sure? I am almost positive your "at work" if your at your desk by 7:59am. What do you think?<br />If you are at your desk (on time) but checking your personal email or Facebook page, does this satisfy the request of being "at work" by 8am? Wait, I know, your "at work", just sat down, relieved you made it on time, when you get up and head to the break room for some coffee, at work or not?<br />I think your getting the point. Teenagers are not at the "at work" point and have many other decisions to make. Like:<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgARcYl2xAnzB0FABo1amVRCs8E3YU-_HU2kzMkY7fl0arqDMKwRyQFw7lex7W12JXHex6CTr8oKtwhF86CZ02C9rd_cuO80amRwAnwy1qhG22OjnGumVjkHM4ODw6rdY1r-YeQhDpgXsi_/s1600-h/alarmclock.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; WIDTH: 184px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 269px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367065997372771010" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgARcYl2xAnzB0FABo1amVRCs8E3YU-_HU2kzMkY7fl0arqDMKwRyQFw7lex7W12JXHex6CTr8oKtwhF86CZ02C9rd_cuO80amRwAnwy1qhG22OjnGumVjkHM4ODw6rdY1r-YeQhDpgXsi_/s400/alarmclock.jpg" /></a> <ul><li>what time should I get up so I can get to work on time?</li><li>if it is 7am then what time should I get to bed so I am alert while at work?</li><li>should I hang with my friends or head home for a good nights rest?</li></ul>I could easily come up with 30 or 40 more thoughts, all just to prepare for our arrival at work.<br /><br />Don't run from the mundane! Embrace the many daily decisions confident that if you choose right you will be deepening your character.Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-43323429788142331112009-07-16T12:55:00.007-05:002009-07-16T13:10:33.632-05:00General Thoughts!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM_PralAp6jp0bvHtV2NUhjIdid41mZ8AT-HIaQxMoEUXNPZP1_W2hebaAaXa5QlY94mrU0uqk4V8rX_TSmgqKWu8i_Np9aHhe2IXQjRoKUabrRPROrgOj4L-wh4rSBLK_lnFcOlf08iE7/s1600-h/People.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 170px; height: 107px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM_PralAp6jp0bvHtV2NUhjIdid41mZ8AT-HIaQxMoEUXNPZP1_W2hebaAaXa5QlY94mrU0uqk4V8rX_TSmgqKWu8i_Np9aHhe2IXQjRoKUabrRPROrgOj4L-wh4rSBLK_lnFcOlf08iE7/s400/People.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359119600010632882" border="0" /></a><br />I have been spending a great deal of time contemplating the state of leadership in general. I really do see a trend towards impersonal and non-relational management.<br /><br />When I say leadership, you can swap this term for many others!<br /><br />Spouse, parent, teacher, officer, etc. Relationships are stressed to the breaking point all around us.\<br /><br />When stress is out-of-control, it can get in the way of your ability to:<br /><ul><li>Think clearly and creatively</li><li>Communicate clearly</li><li>Accurately "read" other people</li><li>Hear what someone is really saying</li><li>Trust others</li><li>Attend to your own needs</li></ul>Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-30170407017012874132009-07-02T12:14:00.005-05:002009-07-02T12:25:24.015-05:00I am learning to focus on the positive!I recently watch a tremendous video titled "The Secret". If you are interested, visit the website by clicking the banner below. After watching this I realized that I need to focus my attention on more positive things. I especially need to point out the positive in others. <br /><br />Keep coming back and hold me accountable to this!<br /><br />If the banner does not work click <span style="font-weight:bold;"><a href="http://www.thesecret.tv/">The Secret</a></span><br /><br /><a<br />href="http://www.whatisthesecret.tv"><img src="http://www.whatisthesecret.tv/banners/white_banner.jpg" alt="What Is The Secret" title="Click to discover THE SECRET" width="420" height="140" hspace="3" vspace="3" border="0" align="top"></a>Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-27713905981779578942009-06-19T20:49:00.002-05:002009-06-19T21:12:51.128-05:00Un-Cooperative Leaders!!!!I am fortunate to present during leadership training seminars and when it is time for me to call on the group to share and idea, answer, or comment I am amazed but how many that just sit there looking at everyone else or not looking at anyone. <br /><br />Re-read my first sentence. I am training "leaders" and when I think of a leader I think of someone willing to step out when called upon to help. If I am training 50 people I believe 50 hands should shoot up the moment they are called to action.<br /><br />I am working with an Air Force Colonel on a base where handicap parking is abused by non-handicapped drivers. His is trying to crack down on this issue but here is what a "real" leader does:<br /><br />Instead of parking in the #1 spot on the base (earned after years of service mind you), he leaves it open for handicapped drivers unable to find a spot designated for them. Where does he park?Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-88902226826897209952009-05-10T12:08:00.000-05:002009-05-21T12:18:08.819-05:00How to handle a difficult employee! Part 3 of 3Restoring the relationship!<br />Typically, leaders are after changed behavior without realizing the best method to obtain this is by associating the poor decision with the relationship. When you have a strong bond with someone, if either party does something to offend the other, they are naturally disappointed. I might even venture to say they are saddened by the persons choice of "poor" character. <br />Next we want to get to the root of any disciplinary issues (poor character), or as I like to say, poor choices. <br />It is just like in the old days when mom asked "what did you do?" and we normally replied, "Susan said, or "David hit me", neither of these responses answered the question. So what did mom say next, "no, what did you do?" until we finally say with our own mouths, "I pinched Mary" or "I said ____ to Mark."<br />We are at a true mile-stone when the offender can sincerely say, "I lied to you" or "I was wrong in my choice."<br />Now here is real progress. See what I post next!Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6248947863284587726.post-36327656732091380622009-04-28T12:04:00.000-05:002009-05-02T12:12:35.323-05:00I Do My Best Work For A Leader Who...Take our fun poll, I do my best work for a leader who.... Here is the link featured on LinkedIn. Have fun folks.<br /><br /><a href="http://polls.linkedin.com/p/36001/tumnk">I DO MY BEST WORK</a>Steven Menzelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03010086745637043213noreply@blogger.com0