Nov 2010
Gary McCollum guided the panel in exploring what leadership meant to them, and the ensuing discussion highlighted several aspects of the WICT Touchstones.
Know Yourself. When Gary asked how do you balance job and be respectful of what goes on at home, Leigh Woisard observed that “you have to get over yourself.” Danny Jobe stressed the importance of setting limits. He has to remind himself, “if it doesn’t get read right away, it’s still there.” Since his work means that he only comes home on weekends, he said that on weekends, “rarely do I open a laptop” and he makes a point of not talking about work. Dianne admitted that she’s a “work in progress” when it comes to setting limits, acknowledging that “ my team helps me: they tell me to shut down and go home.” Mike said it’s important to know yourself, know your strengths and weaknesses and identify when you need help.”
Communicate. Dianne Earlely noted that “you have to understand the story you’re telling.” Mike Ortman said when you are in an environment that does not share your values, sometimes you have to get creative. For instance, you can make your children visible in the workplace by decorating your office with their pictures and having your spouse bring them into work on Friday afternoons.
Listen. Danny Jobe stressed the importance of listening to customers. Dianne quoted Jill Campbell’s saying that you should “ ride the horse in the direction it’s going.” When asked about the qualities of a good leader, Danny simply said, “a good leader needs to listen.”
Connect. Dianne Earley noted that “there is no career ladder: it’s a career lattice.” Leigh said it was important to “make sure your fill in the gaps that could lead to misunderstanding.” Leigh said her advice on being a good leader is “show the people you work with that you are patient.” Mike said it’s OK to be a good leader or to be a good follower: it’s a 24/7 operation. Some people simply want to work and don’t want to lead.
Be a catalyst. Dianne Earley stressed that as a manager, you need to accept that you are not there to solve your employees’ problems. She learned that she was unintentionally failing to developing her employees to their potential when she accompanied them rather than letting them interact with the client on their own. Leigh observed that flexibility was important, as was having a plan on where you want to go. Gary agreed about taking a long term perspective on where you want to go.
Be fearless. Mike Ortman said in the cable industry, you have to “embrace change.” Danny Jobe stressed, “be flexible, try something new, and get out of your comfort zone.”
Inspire. Dianne Earley noted that leadership is “the art of developing people to their maximum potential.” Mike Ortman added that “ your job is to make your employees prepared for their next job,” even if that job is with another company.
Danny Jobe, Dianne Earley, Michael Ortman, Gary McCollum, and Leigh Woisard