All leaders must ask themselves this question when they are coaching, mentoring, or developing another person: "Am I investing my time, or simply spending it?"   When we invest, we expect a rate of return.  There are 4 factors to determine the ROI on time. Influence Factor:  Do they have influence over others?  Leadership is influence, the function of leadership is to gain more leaders not followers.  Does this person have a sphere of influence where their leadership can be transformational? Capacity Factor: Do they have the capacity to grow?  Is there enough (raw material) in there already?  Is there enough knowledge and skill for them to move their growth needle enough to meet expectations? Attitude Factor: How is their [...]

Be Prepared- like a good news reporter:  do your homework.  Review any information that is relevant, anticipate responses and follow up questions. Drop Everything- Biggest compliment you can pay another human being is giving your full, undivided attention.  Effective listening requires nothing less.  We all can mult- task, that’s great- but not when you’re eyeball to eyeball. Maintain Eye Contact- You and I know people reveal much about their feeling and comprehension through their eyes.  Always try open expression, relaxed face, make even a tiny smile indicating openness and invites better commination. Have It All- It’s like I know what you’re going to say- so let’s just speed things up and I'll say it for you.  Don’t anticipate the end [...]