Solutions 21 Weekly Insights

If you can only read one thing this week...

Can't see the forest for the trees

by Tyler Palko | Posted on August 4, 2017

Sometimes we can’t see the forest for the trees.

I was talking to a gentleman from the insurance industry as I boarded a recent flight to Pittsburgh. He was taking a trip to explore an opportunity to expand his business. As we began talking, he was telling me how exciting this was for his business and the promise of all of the opportunities that lie ahead. Not that he needed to tell me. He was smiling from ear to ear the entire pre-flight.

My inquisitive mind — or quarterback mentality — kicked in and I proceeded to ask him, “What would prevent you from making this happen?” Fully prepared for any pushback, he responded with quickness and certainty for he knew the circumstances that would not allow him to achieve his goals. He explained that the hurdles were twofold.

The first was sales. As is the case in most businesses, sales is king. When it comes to the insurance business, sales are everything. The creation of new business and retention of current business is of the utmost importance.

The second was his people. He stated, “If we don’t get and keep the right people, then we are going to have a hard time.”

Each seemed to be pretty astute answers. This guy had a plan and knew the obstacles he would need to overcome to achieve his goals.

With each of these defined, the conversation shifted to how he was specifically addressing these potential roadblocks. Read the rest at the Solutions 21 Blog >

Great Reads from Around the Web

What Kind of Leader Are You? The Answer Means Everything to Your Employees
Inc.
Why you should read it: Because your "executive presence" may be taking away from the talent of those around you. Take a look at why "the most intelligent leaders, really smart, capable people, don't always engender intelligence in those around them" and how to change it.
Want Your Employees to Respect You? Give Them the 1 Thing Most Bosses Never Do
Inc.
Why you should read it: Because "a signature trait of the most likable leaders -- a trait that leads to uncommon loyalty in employees as well as business results -- is one that's extremely hard to pull off."
How to Find Meaning in a Job That Isn't Your "True Calling"
Harvard Business Review
Why you should read it: Because "you can find meaning in nearly any role in nearly any organization. After all, most companies create products or services to fill a need in the world, and all employees contribute in their own ways. The key is to become more conscious about the service you’re providing — as a whole and personally." Here's how.

What is this?

Each week, Solutions 21 brings you the latest discussions and dissenting opinions on the topics of building better bosses, shaping strategies, and preparing people to ensure that you're ready for what's next. Not your cup of tea? Unsubscribe anytime.