It’s hard to think of any aspect of any market sector that doesn’t involve, or revolve around, influence. Back on October 7th, Steve Loudermilk (@loudyoutloud) and I tried a novel approach to our Analyst Relations/Influence chat (#ARchat) by engaging in a joint chat session with #B2Bchat, the B2B chat hosted by Ksenia Coffman (@kseniacoffman), Jeremy Victor (@jeremyvictor), Andrew Spoeth (@andrewspoeth) & the crew at @b2bento.
During this chat, we focused on market influencers, specifically, what role can, or should, Analyst and Influencer Relations have in the B2B sector.
Tonight we’re firing it up again with the #B2Bchat team for our 2nd look at influence in the B2B sector. This time, however, we are taking an inward-looking approach regarding how firms themselves influence their market, the importance of defining an “influence strategy”, working with new influencers, and measuring a firms “influence impact” on the market.
Questions that we will discuss include:
How do you presently identify your own firm’s “influence” in the market?
How do you measure your firm’s influence against your competitors?
Who drives your corporate market influence strategy (both customer-side and outside influencers)?
What steps can be taken to improve your influence (How key is traditional marketing vs SM in these efforts)?
How do you spread your influence to “new influencers” like bloggers who break news stories and analysis faster than traditional influencers?
How are you thinking about your “influencing” strategy from an in-sourcing or outsourcing approach?
Please join us tonight, December 2nd at 8pm ET for this “influencing” event. We’ll be using the #B2Bchat hashtag – hope to see you there.
#LeadershipChat is hosted each Tuesday at 8pmET by @LisaPetrilli and @swoodruff. This week’s chat was on Passion and the role it plays in Leadership. For some good background reading, check out the following posts by Lisa “I Like The Pope” Petrilli and Steve “I Don’t Care Much For Cheerleaders” Woodruff which set the tone for tonight’s wild discussion.
Along the way, we hit some key topics, such as the definition of “passion” and how is it nurtured or developed, how vision and passion relate, the dual/symbiotic roles of passion and enthusiasm in leadership, the ways that passion in leaders can drive passion in others (as well as attract people who share the same passion) and how good leaders often know when to step aside and let others utilize their own passion, building both team spirit/focus and a common sense of purpose and ownership.
I hope you enjoy the transcript as much as I enjoyed participating in the chat, and I encourage you to follow both this chat and the people below – they are some of the brightest people I know.
Feel free to continue this conversation in the comments section below, and if you like this transcript and feel others might as well or would benefit from our discussion, please RT liberally – it’s all about the conversation. And please, remember to read from the bottom up!
@wadnikhil RT @Starbucker: You also have to love what you do – you cannot fake passion. People can see right through that. #leadershipchat -9:33 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@bruceserven RT @Starbucker: You also have to love what you do – you cannot fake passion. People can see right through that. #leadershipchat -9:32 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@wadnikhil@LVSConsulting You are welcome and thanks too for connecting on #leadershipchat. So you Building Positive Organizations. Thats wonderful. -9:28 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@anthonyonesto Missed leadership chat today because of my passion for my kids. Look forward to reviewing the archive – always learning #leadershipchat -9:14 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly@CASUDI Don’t forget to tell ‘em how fast the chat is – Better use a top-end browser and fast computer lol #LeadershipChat -9:10 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@fredmcclimans RT @LisaPetrilli: @swoodruff It’s like we’re a married couple at a party & don’t see each other until we leave #leadershipchat -9:10 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@CASUDI I think I better UPDATE my post on “How I make the most of online chats” and INCLUDE #leadershipchat GOODNIGHT ALL -9:09 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LisaPetrilli@swoodruff I still think it’s like we’re a married couple going to a party & we don’t see each other until we leave #leadershipchat -9:08 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe Perspective, Passion, Spontaneity, Enthusiasm, Vision > The recipe gets more complex Must boil down to essence to inspire #LeadershipChat -9:07 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@wadnikhil@dan_blakemore Wonderful. I guess will need to get all the times of such topic chats so we wont miss it. #leadershipchat and others. -9:06 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Evita76 RT @KevinEikenberry: passion is a virus we can choose to spread as a leader. Connect to your passion, let it show – and watch it grow #leadershipchat -9:06 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff@LVSConsulting Lisa and I have a “secret list” of upcoming themes. Stay tuned to WikiLeaks for the update… #leadershipchat -9:03 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly This was my 1st time on this chat – I am so amazed, I’ve run out of adjectives to describe how I feel about this chat! WOW! #LeadershipChat -9:03 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@steinerm G’nite folks. Hopping on to another chat. Tweet ya next Tuesday! #Leadershipchat -9:03 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LVSConsulting Thx for #leadershipchat – so glad I found it by accident! Now to see if I actually replied to everyone… A la prochaine! -9:03 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ABoyle129 My first one. Enjoyed it. cRT @swoodruff: Here we go again, the fastest hour of the week. How can it be 9:00 already???? #leadershipchat -9:03 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ntalukdar3 Thanks to all for another great #leadershipchat ! My speed reading & typing skills are improving because of you!! #leadershipchat -9:03 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@lindaperrybarr Thanks very much for an inspiring conversation Btw, making up LaoTzu quotes is one of my passions:) #leadershipchat -9:02 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@CASUDI@pprothe I do also~ lots of people have learned so many things they would never have been able to ~ related to lifestyle~ #leadershipchat -9:02 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@fredmcclimans@pprothe Martha is a great example of somebody who taps into the passion of others, who follow based on the image/interests. #leadershipchat -9:01 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly@ABoyle129 Welcome to LeadershipChat, Andy! Glad you joined us tonight – we look forward to seeing you next Tue nite! #LeadershipChat -9:01 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@steinerm Legal advice? RT @swoodruff: Just remember: if youre not sure how to respond, just say “It depends…” (works every time!) #Leadershipchat -9:00 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@fredmcclimans@pprothe Martha Stewart is def passionate – about herself. She doesn’t need passionate staff, just passionate viewers. #leadershipchat -9:00 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LVSConsulting@DelaneyKirk Too simplistic and pedantic. I think it talks down. Doesn’t inspire or give concrete solutions. Stays a fable. #leadershipchat -9:00 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@steinerm Sometimes stay too long RT @PatRobeck1ofHis: A leader will know when it is time to hand over the reins to someone else also. #Leadershipchat -8:59 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ABoyle129 My first #leadershipchat ; lurked mostly but was fun and informative. Great group! Gotta get little ones off to la la land. -8:59 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MatthewLiberty thank god for tweetchat, i think twitter booted my talkative a$$ #leadershipchat -8:59 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff Here we go again, the fastest hour of the week. How can it be 9:00 already???? #leadershipchat -8:59 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@wadnikhil To cope with much fast interactions? RT @LVSConsulting I think I need a faster computer for the next #leadershipchat – such fun all! Thanks! -8:59 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite RT @swoodruff: Just remember: if you’re not sure how to respond, just say “It depends…” (works every time!) #leadershipchat -8:58 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@PatRobeck1ofHis A leader will know when it is time to hand over the reins to someone else also. #LeadershipChat -8:58 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff Just remember: if you’re not sure how to respond, just say “It depends…” (works every time!) #leadershipchat -8:58 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff@pprothe Passion alone won’t make a good leader, of course – there has to be a good bit more in place! #leadershipchat -8:57 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@iannarino@LisaPetrilli You have 2 give meaning. And it has 2 stand 4 smthng big! Lest you end up w/ perfect, meaningless mediocrity. #leadershipchat -8:57 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly RT @pprothe: Isn’t Martha Stewart passionate? Would you say she’s a great leader? Successful yes, but #LeadershipChat -8:57 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Starbucker@ruthverver Yes, they can see it, but can they emulate it themselves? I find that to be a gr8 challenge. #leadershipchat -8:57 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite RT @MatthewLiberty: i think we spend too much time trying to define everything, that’s the logic in us, some things are best left to just doing #leadershipchat -8:56 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LVSConsulting RT @Doctor_Wu73: #leadershipchat thanks for a great chat – always a pleasure. Stay passionate everyone. Remember our duties and responsibilities as leaders -8:56 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe Isn’t Martha Stewart passionate? Would you say she’s a great leader? Successful yes, but #LeadershipChat -8:56 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MatthewLiberty i think we spend too much time trying to define everything, that’s the logic in us, some things are best left to just doing #leadershipchat -8:56 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Doctor_Wu73#leadershipchat thanks for a great chat – always a pleasure. Stay passionate everyone. Remember our duties and responsibilities as leaders -8:56 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Starbucker@akosmosJML Exactly. Leaders, more than anything else, have to explain the whys, and why they’re important to them #leadershipchat -8:55 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@rtDIRECTOR#leadershipchat This passion we’re talking about is found when we cast. From there it’s our job to nurture and mold it. -8:55 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ckburgess#LeadershipChat@johnsonwhitney Tell your son that sometimes it’s not always about winning the game. It’s how U play it! Told my son this! -8:55 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@dan_blakemore@ABoyle129 I haven’t thought of passion solely as a trait of the young; seen passion in mentors, co-workers of all ages. #leadershipchat -8:54 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LVSConsulting RT @swoodruff: I’ve tried selling without a real passion for the offering or company behind it. It’s torture. #leadershipchat -8:54 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@PatRobeck1ofHis Passionate Leaders need to find folks passionate about managing, selling, organizing, communications, etc. #LeadershipChat -8:54 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@rtDIRECTOR#leadershipchat it starts with the team. why would we bring on team members that weren’t passionate? -8:54 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@megmathur All of mine. @Marc_Meyer: I’m curious, How many of your opinions on Passion and leadership are based on hands on experience #leadershipchat -8:54 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe RT @fredmcclimans: RT @ckburgess: Without integrity, you’re simply promoting yourself, and people will not follow your lead. #leadershipchat -8:54 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@fredmcclimans RT @ckburgess: Without integrity, you’re simply promoting yourself, and people will not follow your lead. #leadershipchat -8:54 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@NicWirtz@MargieClayman If you can’t get any publicity to your cause it’s going to be difficult for regime change, no? #leadershipchat -8:53 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@TheBrandChef Yes, but can your passion and enthusiasm reform a Bumble? (watching Rudolph as I tweet) #leadershipchat -8:53 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite@maverickcf Control is difficult when you are truly passionate, but ultimately leads to the best results. #leadershipchat -8:53 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@jonathansaar Passion in my experience shows a good balance of emotion but amazing consistency..the example speaks 4 itself #leadershipchat -8:53 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ckburgess#LeadershipChat Without integrity, you’re simply promoting yourself, and people will not follow your lead. -8:53 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis Dropping off to put the rug-rats to bed. Thanks everyone for a fast and furious (and GREAT) #LeadershipChat tonight. A great topic! -8:53 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@happyhourmary if your goal is just greed or success, eventually people will stop following you #leadershipchat -8:52 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@RichardNatoli@pprothe I agree. That’s totally different. But you can have different streams of passion feeding the same result. #leadershipchat -8:52 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@TCoughlin RT @MatthewLiberty: you can sell like crazy even though you may not be passionate about something [ain’t that the truth!] #leadershipchat -8:52 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Marc_Meyer I’m curious, How many of your opinions on Passion and leadership are based on hands on experience #leadershipchat -8:52 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ABoyle129 Passion seems to be thought of as a trait of the young. Why? #leadershipchat -8:52 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@davidmcgraw Good 1 RT @iannarino: Passion equals meaning. Meaning equals engagement. Engagement equals jaw-dropping, breath-taking work #Leadershipchat -8:52 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ntalukdar3@LouImbriano Agree! Many make bold statements, but never back them up. Ideas are good to have, but execution is key #leadershipchat -8:52 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LisaPetrilli@iannarino So, if it starts the cycle, how to provide “jaw-dropping, breath-taking work” to whole team? #LeadershipChat -8:52 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@PatRobeck1ofHis A book-keeper does not need to be passionate about the cause you hire them for, but, must be about good books! #LeadershipChat -8:51 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe RT @RichardNatoli: You may have to sell a product you don’t believe in. In that case, find your passion in developing your team. #leadershipchat -8:51 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@iannarino@swoodruff No! You have to believe. Can you take the same actions w/o Passion? Yes. But without passion, you won’t! #leadershipchat -8:51 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@DavidHolzmer Rock on! RT @iannarino: Passion equals meaning.Meaning equals engagement. Engagement equals jaw-dropping, breath-taking work #leadershipchat -8:51 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@RichardNatoli You may have to sell a product you don’t believe in. In that case, find your passion in developing your team. #leadershipchat -8:51 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite RT @maverickcf: Can passion be controlled, channeled, distributed or does it have to just be in cataclysmic eruptions? #leadershipchat -8:51 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LoisMarketing@JanelleBowden If you do not find mentors in real life, seek out the authors and books that inspire you, make you grow #LeadershipChat -8:50 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MargieClayman@NicWirtz mm, not sure about that. Trying to find a cure to a disease necessitates working w/in the system, non? #leadershipchat -8:50 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LouImbriano When entering an organization ~> make bold statements, then roll up your sleeves and making sure they happen. #leadershipchat -8:50 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@PatRobeck1ofHis In a volunteer org,you don’t always get to pick who you work with, but, eventually, only like-minded will stay. #LeadershipChat -8:50 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ServantTweeter RT @swoodruff: So, can someone be passionate without being a “true believer” in the cause? YES result oriented people Are #leadershipchat -8:49 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LVSConsulting RT @LoisMarketing: As a leader you should show genuine passion but you must also show that you walk your talk — and produce results #LeadershipChat -8:49 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite@swoodruff I say “No.” I’ve seen it happen a dozen times, people WANT to drink the kool-aid, but can’t. It shows. #leadershipchat -8:49 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JanelleBowden Re mentoring – if you are a passionate person, do you find it hard to find others that inspire you and can mentor? #leadershipchat -8:49 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@RichardNatoli@swoodruff I think there can be many sources of passion. You need to find your motivation and be passionate about that. #leadershipchat -8:49 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@wilsonellis@LVSConsulting They are different. Both needed to grow successful biz. A good leader w/poor mgmt skills can hire manager #leadershipchat -8:48 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff So, can someone be passionate without being a “true believer” in the cause? Yes? No? Maybe? Why/why not? #leadershipchat -8:48 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@dan_blakemore RT @ckburgess: #LeadershipChat To be a great leader, need to find what you really enjoy! That’s where the passion, commitment, and integrity come from. -8:48 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LisaPetrilli@LouImbriano Never 2 late to jump in, and I think your post is an excellent example of having it and nurturing it in others! #leadershipchat -8:47 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@NicWirtz@MargieClayman If you try and change through less controversial methods you run the risk of becoming part of the system. #leadershipchat -8:47 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@gdonithan RT @Starbucker: Good leaders should also recognize when someone just won’t get on the “passion bus” – U have to have ALL of your team on it. #leadershipchat -8:47 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@DelaneyKirk@DavidHolzmer I find One Minute Mgr or business fables good for starting the discussion on Would this work? When/How? #leadershipchat -8:47 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite@steinerm If you are passionate enough, it becomes infectious. Well, passionate with a good, fact based argument. #leadershipchat -8:46 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MichaelWillett RT @ckburgess#LeadershipChat To be a great leader, find what you really enjoy! That’s where the passion, commitment, & integrity come from -8:46 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff@LVSConsulting We’re going to pick up the Leadership vs Management theme probably in Jan for a Tuesday chat. #leadershipchat -8:46 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite RT @Starbucker: Good leaders should also recognize when someone just won’t get on the “passion bus” – U have to have ALL of your team on it. #leadershipchat -8:46 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MatthewLiberty Passion, like anything else, has many adjectives that can describe it..no need to over think that. #leadershipchat -8:45 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Starbucker Good leaders should also recognize when someone just won’t get on the “passion bus” – U have to have ALL of your team on it. #leadershipchat -8:45 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly RT @LoisMarketing As a leader you shld show genuine passion but you must also show that U walk your talk-and produce results #LeadershipChat -8:45 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JanelleBowden Agree RT @LoisMarketing: As a leader you shld show genuine passion but must also walk your talk — and produce results #leadershipchat -8:45 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MatthewLiberty Can you “show” passion? I think it just comes out, you aren’t in control of it #leadershipchat -8:44 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LisaPetrilli Yes, & oppt’s RT @SeanMcGinnis: Do you find managing/leading passionate people brings with it a certain set of challenges? #LeadershipChat -8:44 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ckburgess#LeadershipChat To be a great leader, need to find what you really enjoy! That’s where the passion, commitment, and integrity come from. -8:44 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite Right RT @swoodruff: One reason these Tuesday night meetings are so fun is because of the shared passion – right? #leadershipchat -8:44 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@wilsonellis@davidmcgraw Which makes you a very valuable team member. Not everyone in the company has to be passionate abt the cause. #Leadershipchat -8:44 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ServantTweeter RT @LoisMarketing: As a leader you should show genuine passion but you must also show that you walk your talk — and produce results #LeadershipChat -8:44 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe RT @LoisMarketing: As a leader you should show genuine passion but you must also show that you walk your talk — and produce results #LeadershipChat -8:44 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff One reason these Tuesday night meetings are so fun is because of the shared passion – right? #leadershipchat -8:44 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite RT @LoisMarketing: As a leader you should show genuine passion but you must also show that you walk your talk — and produce results #LeadershipChat -8:44 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LoisMarketing As a leader you should show genuine passion but you must also show that you walk your talk — and produce results #LeadershipChat -8:44 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@mckra1g I don’t see passion as some intransigent flare; rather it’s banked coals that sustain leaders when others doubt #leadershipchat -8:43 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@davidmcgraw@LisaPetrilli can probably will…if my calling is to do xyz, then I will find a way to xyz. It may not be at that company #Leadershipchat -8:43 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MatthewLiberty You can’t learn passion, it’s like having brown hair & brown eyes, it just occurs #leadershipchat -8:43 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@IamGoldie22 RT @mikesansone: Passion also needs vulnerability & patience. Frank Robinson was uber-passionate Bcame better leader when last 2 added in #LeadershipChat -8:43 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@TheBrandChef Required reading! RT @DelaneyKirk: How about classics such as Covey’s 7 habits or The One Minute Mgr? Still useful reading? #leadershipchat -8:43 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis Teams are passionate about their craft and (sometimes their cause). Leaders must be passionate about a vision. #LeadershipChat -8:43 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ServantTweeter How do ensure your passion is not misplaced zeal in the teams perception #leadershipchat -8:43 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@PatRobeck1ofHis That is the thing, many “spokes” of a well rounded person make up the good leader, all in balance. #LeadershipChat -8:42 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LoisMarketing#LeadershipChat The challenge — without quelling the passion — is to channel it into action and measurable results -8:42 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ckburgess#LeadershipChat Many failed Leaders designed great plays but they never put the points on the scoreboard -8:42 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ntalukdar3 Passion has to come naturally. You can’t force others in your environment to feel it. They either do or don’t. #leadershipchat -8:42 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JanelleBowden Has anybody seen the TV show “Undercover CEOs?” A great demo of leaders passionate about their brand/companies and employees #leadershipchat -8:42 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@iannarino@steinerm Passion equals meaning. Meaning equals engagement. Engagement equals jaw-dropping, breath-taking work! #leadershipchat -8:42 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@RichardNatoli@JanelleBowden I wouldn’t suggest passion overshadows personal accountability. It is just one of many necessary traits. #leadershipchat -8:41 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@PatRobeck1ofHis When working w/other passionate people, your job can be to keep them from killing each other! LOL #LeadershipChat -8:41 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@fredmcclimans@ckburgess: Passion gets you started, persistence is what carries you through! #leadershipchat -8:41 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@TCoughlin I’ll take honesty, emot intell and work ethic over passion. Some people are passionate about not working hard. #leadershipchat -8:41 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LVSConsulting HA! Just realized I’ve been so caught up in responding, I’ve been forgetting #leadershipchat hashtag! OOPS!!! -8:41 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@CASUDI@pprothe spontaneity has now entered the recipe along w passion, enthusiasm & vision all in perfect balance #leadershipchat -8:40 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@PatRobeck1ofHis RT @ckburgess: Passion gets you started, persistence is what carries you through! // a marathon, not a sprint! #LeadershipChat -8:40 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe I knew someone who focused on Infectious Enthusiasm -nice concept, but in some respects seemed forced. Must be real to stick #LeadershipChat -8:40 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LisaPetrilli@davidmcgraw What if in loving ppl and xyz you see opportunities for so much more & comp won’t listen? Lead 2 frustration? #Leadershipchat -8:40 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@RichardNatoli@steinerm I don’t think passion is contagious. I prefer to work with people with passion…people that take work personally. #Leadershipchat -8:39 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LoisMarketing Joining late and speed reading the #LeadershipChat feed — hi everyone. I’m sorry but “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” came first -8:39 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JanelleBowden Doesn’t necessarily get you promoted tho RT @jonathansaar: A passionate leader in most cases can be the most quiet leader #leadershipchat -8:39 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@megmathur@DelaneyKirk: Good to Great. Fierce Leadership. Leader w/out a Title. Difficult Conversations. Find Your Strongest Life #leadershipchat -8:39 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ckburgess#LeadershipChat Passion gets you started, persistence is what carries you through! -8:39 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff@Doctor_Wu73 I think some folks on the team NEED to be more operation/execution focused. Unequal passion levels not bad. #leadershipchat -8:39 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@jonathansaar A passionate leader in most cases can be the most quiet leader #leadershipchat -8:38 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@davidmcgraw@LisaPetrilli think about it this way. I love the people and doing xyz. I don’t care about company trash collection business #Leadershipchat -8:38 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@TCoughlin@fredmcclimans …and people smarter in areas of personal weakness too. Hire well, trust, motivate, and get out of way. #leadershipchat -8:38 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite RT @swoodruff: @CASUDI I don’t think passion HAS to overtop the banks. But better a little of that than pure technical execution. #leadershipchat -8:37 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Doctor_Wu73#leadershipchat be careful not to look down on those who may not have the same passion level – some just won’t. -8:37 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe I think so; need rm 4 spontaneity RT @CASUDI: @swoodruff contrlld passion~doesn’t passion have a little out of control 2it? #leadershipchat -8:37 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff@CASUDI I don’t think passion HAS to overtop the banks. But better a little of that than pure technical execution. #leadershipchat -8:37 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LVSConsulting RT @rtDIRECTOR: #leadershipchat another key to cultural success is the casting of the right people (passionate people) within the company/team. -8:37 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite@LVSConsulting I’ll do you 1 better. A TRUE leader will put extra effort into leading those with whom the don’t see eye2eye #leadershipchat -8:36 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@dan_blakemore RT @millerfinch: I think a leader has to have brains, vision, passion, enthusiasm, and able to coach and lead others to achieve the goal. #leadershipchat -8:36 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@rtDIRECTOR#leadershipchat another key to cultural success is the casting of the right people (passionate people) within the company/team. -8:36 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MargieClayman@NicWirtz ah, interesting. Yeah, I could see that. Except Lennon came out of celebrity into leadership. Bit different. #leadershipchat -8:36 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@IamGoldie22 RT @Doctor_Wu73: #leadershipchat if you as the leader inspire your team as it is, they will adopt the passion – may not be at the same level of passion tho -8:36 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@NicWirtz@MargieClayman Both passionate, both enjoy and dislike publicity in equal measure, both lead in their own ways. #leadershipchat -8:35 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@mikesansone Passion also needs vulnerability & patience. Frank Robinson was uber-passionate Bcame better leader when last 2 added in #LeadershipChat -8:35 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@millerfinch I think a leader has to have brains, vision, passion, enthusiasm, and able to coach and lead others to achieve the goal. #leadershipchat -8:34 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite RT @swoodruff: Been reading a biography of U.S. Grant. An example of slow, controlled, steady passion. #leadershipchat -8:34 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff Been reading a biography of U.S. Grant. An example of slow, controlled, steady passion. #leadershipchat -8:34 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@jolewitz@JanelleBowden point abt Hitler is well taken. If he had won… YIKES! principles R worth fighting 4/it’s passion v passion #leadershipchat -8:34 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@TheBrandChef We need @bigwags to chime in on making your vision (passion) spread effectively through your team! #leadershipchat -8:34 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@TCoughlin RT @PatRobeck1ofHis: A good leader knows when to get out of the teams way and let them do their jobs. [hire well & delegate] #leadershipchat -8:33 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@KevinEikenberry RT @DelaneyKirk: …will assign books by great leaders for class to read. Which ones should I include on list? #leadershipchat |Lincoln -8:33 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ldiomede@LisaPetrilli It will run it’s course. As things get back on track, passionate leaders will find their way 2 those positions #LEadershipChat -8:33 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MargieClayman@TheBrandChef could be. I think if a leader is fueled by heart more than brain, lots of things can cause derailment. #leadershipchat -8:33 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@DelaneyKirk Thinking will assign books by great leaders for class to read. Which ones should I include on list? #leadershipchat -8:33 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JanelleBowden If a leader has passion, will ppl be happy to work for them for less money – 4 opp to be inspired? #leadershipchat -8:32 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe +1 RT @ntalukdar3: It’s called Passion…not “Pass-it-on”! You have to find ppl who aligned with your goals & objectives #leadershipchat -8:32 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@mikesansone RT @Doctor_Wu73: #leadershipchat if you as the leader inspire your team as it is, they will adopt the passion – may not be at the same level of passion tho -8:32 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@RichardNatoli@pprothe And that’s a good point. Coaching involves multiple people. You also need a leader to coach a budding leader. #leadershipchat -8:32 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@charityestrella@starbucker I give my Board and our supporters opportunities to engage in meaningful relationships with our beneficiaries #leadershipchat -8:32 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff It’s true that evil and selfish people can be very passionate, and lead others. Best not to follow! #leadershipchat -8:32 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ntalukdar3 It’s called Passion…not “Pass-it-on”! You have to find ppl who are aligned with your goals & objectives #leadershipchat -8:32 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis@fredmcclimans I would say people who do ind. contrib work are usually “leaders” in their field if they have passion. #LeadershipChat -8:32 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@PatRobeck1ofHis You need to share your belief that each of them will make a difference and have a purpose in the endeavor. #LeadershipChat -8:32 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@DelaneyKirk Teaching grad class on Leadership starting in March. Will all of you come participate? Please? #leadershipchat -8:31 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@fredmcclimans@AmySwipeRite I would agree wrt public leaders – they do need emotional intelligence/communications skills to be a leader. #leadershipchat -8:31 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MargieClayman@NicWirtz ah, yes. Qualifications are sometimes the picket fences that can keep passion under wraps! #leadershipchat -8:31 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Doctor_Wu73#leadershipchat if you as the leader inspire your team as it is, they will adopt the passion – may not be at the same level of passion tho -8:31 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff@Starbucker I think it’s a matter of continually sharing the vision and the “vibe” of excitement, no? #leadershipchat -8:30 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly RT @Virulens Phil Jackson is the model. Passionate. Able to communicate it to others, conv them to believers,produce results #LeadershipChat -8:30 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@fredmcclimans@SeanMcGinnis The question then becomes can passionate followers be “contributing” leaders by empowering “Leaders”? #leadershipchat -8:30 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis What if a leader is passionate about nasty things? Anyone know a great corp politician who was also passionate? #LeadershipChat -8:30 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@RichardNatoli@pprothe You can coach, but coaching leverages what’s already there. If there isn’t that spark, they will struggle to lead. #leadershipchat -8:30 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LVSConsulting RT @Starbucker: Here’s a question – OK, YOU have the passion, but how do you pass it on to the rest of your team, so you can really soar? #leadershipchat -8:30 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MargieClayman@pprothe good point. Sometimes the people who most want to lead are only passionate really about leading. #leadershipchat -8:29 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Virulens Phil Jackson is the model. Passionate. Able to communicate it to others, convert them to believers, and produce results. #leadershipchat -8:29 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Starbucker Here’s a question – OK, YOU have the passion, but how do you pass it on to the rest of your team, so you can really soar? #leadershipchat -8:29 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ntalukdar3@fredmcclimans You can make introverts into leaders. Some lead quietly… The key is desire, and goals for outcome. #leadershipchat -8:29 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff@AmySwipeRite Passion w/o people skills will likely not be a good leadership mix. Or ANYthing w/o people skills! #leadershipchat -8:29 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@RichardNatoli@fredmcclimans I think you can help people become leaders, but nobody can lead if they can’t inspire someone to follow. #leadershipchat -8:28 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@fredmcclimans +1 RT @CASUDI: YES, deff can be introvertedly passionate/enthusiastic about something ~ maybe that is where a genius sits? #leadershipchat -8:28 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LisaPetrilli@JanelleBowden Thx 4 Oprah example, she’s a gr8 example of having clarity of vision “Live Ur Best Life” & it resonates #leadershipchat -8:28 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@wilsonellis@swoodruff True. You can also look at the team and feel it in the air. If it’s anger, the mood is despair. #LeadershipChat -8:28 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JanelleBowden@TheBrandChef I probably won’t agree with that. I started a new business on basis of passion, but few bought in. I noticed. #leadershipchat -8:28 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly RT @DavidHolzmer: Unless outer action is authentically connected to internal alignment, the “passion” will only go so far. #LeadershipChat -8:28 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@fredmcclimans@ntalukdar3 Excellent point. There are those w/ extreme passion but zero interpersonal skills. Can you make them leaders? #leadershipchat -8:27 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@TheBrandChef@JanelleBowden If your passion is strong enough, you won’t notice those that “don’t buy in” – always looking ahead… #leadershipchat -8:26 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@seattledrury RT @DavidHolzmer: Unless outer action is authentically connected to internal alignment, the “passion” will only go so far. #leadershipchat -8:26 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@davidmcgraw RT @ldiomede: Best said. RT @mckra1g: Passion is the fuel: focus is needed 4 the execution. Cant have fwd progress w/o fuel. #Leadershipchat -8:26 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@DavidHolzmer@LisaPetrilli I think so only b/c it’s so easy 2 get caught in the emotionality of the moment. Passion has 2 offer more. #leadershipchat -8:26 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LVSConsulting#leadershipchat Yet passion must also be related to the business, non? Or else misalignment ensues and it doesn’t work. -8:26 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LADYDAY93 RT @charityestrella: I agree that leading with vision is a by-product of true passion. Vision = solutions, mission = band-aids. #leadershipchat -8:25 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@CASUDI@fredmcclimans YES, deff can be introvertedly passionate/enthusiastic about something ~ maybe that is where a genius sits? #leadershipchat -8:25 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis RT @mckra1g: Passion is the fuel: focus is needed 4 the execution. Can’t have fwd progress w/o the fuel. #LeadershipChat -8:25 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@steinerm@KevinEikenberry just because someone is passionate doesn’t mean that others will naturally feed off that passion #Leadershipchat -8:25 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LVSConsulting@rtDIRECTOR#leadershipchat As leaders we need to keep stoking the fires of that passion <- totally agree! Ldrs must find passion in others. -8:25 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JanelleBowden How do you stop losing the passion when others don’t buy into the vision? #leadershipchat -8:25 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@TheBrandChef “Passion” gives the leader the ability to take risks. The “Enthusiasm” makes failure more palatable… #LeadershipChat -8:24 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@fredmcclimans@MargieClayman Yes, Gauguin is a good example of a “don’t want to be a leader”, and yet he became one despite his presence. #leadershipchat -8:24 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@KevinEikenberry passion is a virus we can choose to spread as a leader. Connect to your passion, let it show – and watch it grow #leadershipchat -8:24 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis@JDEbberly But sometimes strong communicators aren’t passionate at all. Can be phony or worse, even devious. #LeadershipChat -8:24 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Starbucker Good points here- there must be passion for a cause, a cause greater than yourself. #leadershipchat -8:24 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LisaPetrilli@DavidHolzmer So would you say, since it’s tested over long haul, that it’s reflected in commitment, steadfastness? #leadershipchat -8:24 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly How long has #LeadershipChat been meeting? There are a LOT of passionate folks in here tonight! WOW!!! Who is facilitator? -8:24 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@jolewitz RT @Starbucker: You also have to love what you do – you cannot fake passion. People can see right through that. #leadershipchat -8:23 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ntalukdar3@fredmcclimans There are many technologists who are passionate, but are not “vocal”. That’s why we have marketing & PR folks #leadershipchat -8:22 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Starbucker RT @mckra1g: Passion is the fuel: focus is needed 4 the execution. Can’t have fwd progress w/o the fuel. #LeadershipChat (yes indeed) -8:22 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MargieClayman@fredmcclimans I would point to Gaugin. He was so passionate he turned his life upside down, but he disappeared fr. society. #leadershipchat -8:22 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe Typo in previous > An effective passionate leader can articulate a vision, rally the herd into action towards a goal #LeadershipChat -8:22 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@jolewitz RT @Virulens“The only man nevr 2 B redeemed is the man w/out passion” Ayn Rand. The irredeemable is not a gr8 leader I think #LeadershipChat -8:21 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@CASUDI@JDEbberly maybe being a strong communicator is important so you can communicate your passion/vision #leadershipchat -8:21 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis RT @arowect: #leadershipchat what is sad is that some people have lost respect for those leaders who have strong passion, some view passion as craziness -8:21 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LVSConsulting RT @rtDIRECTOR: #leadershipchat Passion within the culture is the key. People can’t be sleepwalkers and expect the company to do good things. -8:21 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ldiomede Best said. RT @mckra1g: Passion is the fuel: focus is needed 4 the execution. Can’t have fwd progress w/o the fuel. #LeadershipChat -8:21 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe An effective passionate leader and articulate a vision, rally the herd into action towards a goal #LeadershipChat -8:21 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@fredmcclimans Does anybody think it is possible to be passionate/enthusiastic in an inward way and NOT be a leader (perhaps by choice)? #leadershipchat -8:21 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JanelleBowden Oprah is considered a leader. Is this because of passion? or is that only part of it? #leadershipchat -8:21 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@mogusmoves True that. RT @DavidHolzmer: “Passion” really cannot be assessed in the moment. It’s metal is tested over the long haul. #leadershipchat -8:21 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis I think immediately of Alan Mulally of @Ford when I think of leaders with passion. #LeadershipChat -8:21 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@davidmcgraw Agreed RT @DavidHolzmer: “Passion” really cannot be assessed in the moment. Its metal is tested over the long haul. #Leadershipchat -8:21 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LVSConsulting A strong leader can balance passion, so it doesn’t become irrational single-mindedness. Keep eyes on the prize but… #leadershipchat -8:20 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@wilsonellis@SeanMcGinnis Passion can get in the way b/c the leader wants ppl with his passion but needs ppl passionate abt their areas #leadershipchat -8:20 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite I don’t know if it’s passion or lunacy, but I find that when I’m really excited about something, I sound like a Preacher. #leadershipchat -8:20 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MargieClayman@arowect I agree, but then some people let passion make them look wild & misdirected. Harder to respect them. #leadershipchat -8:20 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@rtDIRECTOR#leadershipchat Passion within the culture is the key. People can’t be sleepwalkers and expect the company to do good things. -8:20 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@DWesterberg Good leader has the *best* stories re: staff, customers, industry, future. Authentic, inspiring, memorable. #leadershipchat -8:20 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@davidmcgraw Passion may inspire you…you will still need to find away to evoke a shared passion with others #Leadershipchat -8:20 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@DavidHolzmer “Passion” really cannot be assessed in the moment. It’s metal is tested over the long haul. #leadershipchat -8:20 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly Being a strong communicator does help in leadership #LeadershipChat -8:20 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@petevosspr I believe Steve Ballmer is enthusiastic, and @BillGates more passionate. Both are good leaders, but different styles #leadershipchat -8:19 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ntalukdar3 You can see it in their eyes & feel it in their breath…. A passionate leader can’t hide the reasons for their motivation #leadershipchat -8:19 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@charityestrella RT @wilsonellis: People naturally mirror others – Leaders w/ passion, enthusiasm, & vision inspire every one around them. #leadershipchat -8:19 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@PatRobeck1ofHis RT @LisaPetrilli: So how does the passion of a leader affect others? How does it impact your followers? // Exponentially! #LeadershipChat -8:19 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@tokiwana RT @ServantTweeter: Pig or Chicken Leadership? The Chicken contributed the Pig was Passionate about your breakfast gave his life! #Leadershipchat -8:19 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@arowect#leadershipchat what is sad is that some people have lost respect for those leaders who have strong passion, some view passion as craziness -8:19 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis RT @wilsonellis: People naturally mirror others – Leaders w/ passion, enthusiasm, & vision inspire every one around them. #leadershipchat -8:18 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@jolewitz@ServantTweeter heroism is not necesarily leadership – the pig in your example was never around to lead the troops again #leadershipchat -8:18 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@EvaParis Enthusiasm can wane; passion seems deeper, more sustainable #LeadershipChat -8:18 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@charityestrella@margieclayman mission is abt what you can do to help *right now*. Vision is abt what you can do to work yrself out of a job #leadershipchat -8:18 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe Sometimes you might not always be in position to love all you do, but can make the most of process, celebrate the journey #LeadershipChat -8:17 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LVSConsulting IMHO passion comes from deep meaning that permeates the culture. #leadershipchat -8:17 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LisaPetrilli Another keeper! RT @ckburgess: Leaders are “people who leave their footprints in their areas of passion.” Author Unknown #LeadershipChat -8:17 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@CASUDI@Starbucker Agree U have to love what you do ~ BTW this is very contagious to people around U/ your team etc… #leadershipchat -8:17 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@wilsonellis People naturally mirror others – Leaders w/ passion, enthusiasm, & vision inspire every one around them. #leadershipchat -8:17 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly@TheBrandChef When you have an idea burning within you w/ desire to teach others – A new passionate leader is born!!!! #LeadershipChat -8:17 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@sixuntilme RT @ldiomede: Passion is what makes blood flow through the veins. It’s the differentiators between a great leader and a mediocre one #LeadershipChat -8:17 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ldiomede Passion is what makes blood flow through the veins. It’s the differentiators between a great leader and a mediocre one #LeadershipChat -8:17 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LisaPetrilli So how does the passion of a leader affect others? How does it impact your followers? cc @swoodruff#leadershipchat -8:16 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MegIrving in ordr to be a sucess 1 has unique identity tht only cms from true passion and enthusiasm for ones market #leadershipchat -8:16 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@DavidHolzmer@SeanMcGinnis Oh indeed! Passion can utilize/leverage emotion but it sources from a deeper place. Passion = ‘soul’ quality. #leadershipchat -8:16 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@RichardNatoli@SeanMcGinnis I hired for culture specfically. I can coach the skills but the passion needs to be there in order to grow it. #leadershipchat -8:16 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff@TheBrandChef First they have to have clear vision. Then they need to excite others into it. If it’s good, passion will wake #leadershipchat -8:16 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MargieClayman@SeanMcGinnis I think passionate people will hire passionate people. The unenthused may seem to be missing something. #leadershipchat -8:16 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff Who are some of the most passionate leaders you think of? Me – Steve Jobs. #leadershipchat -8:15 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@petevosspr RT @starbucker You also have to love what you do – you cannot fake passion. People can see right through that. #leadershipchat -8:15 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MegIrving in order to be a success one has to have a unique identity. That only comes from true passion and enthusiasm for ones market #leadershipchat -8:15 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@megmathur RT @Starbucker: You also have to love what you do – you cannot fake passion. People can see right through that. #leadershipchat -8:15 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@TheBrandChef@swoodruff so how do leaders perpetuate their TRUE enthusiasm and passion? Infectious or something learned? Inherit? #leadershipchat -8:15 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis How is passion connected with hiring and building a culture? Anyone find them to be related in any way? #leadershipchat -8:15 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LisaPetrilli That’s a keeper, thk U as always! RT @DavidHolzmer: Enthusiam=emotional experience; Passion = drive that transcends emotion. #leadershipchat -8:15 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@DeniseWBarreto Another key to leadership is self-awareness and self-control. Hard to “lead” others if you can’t lead yourself #leadershipchat -8:15 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@arowect@JanelleBowden#leadershipchat both are crucial, but if your just have personality, you will get tired, passion keeps you persistant -8:15 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@crystalsilver RT @Starbucker: You also have to love what you do – you cannot fake passion. People can see right through that. #leadershipchat -8:15 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@milenagarg RT @Starbucker: U also have 2 love what u do – you can’t fake passion. Pple can see right thru that. #leadershipchat <— that’s for sure! -8:14 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JanelleBowden I think it is important to have passion, but also need to be able to communicate the vision. If you can’t, nobody follows #leadershipchat -8:14 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@WMFHApts RT @Starbucker: You also have to love what you do – you cannot fake passion. People can see right through that. #leadershipchat -8:14 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@rtDIRECTOR RT @Starbucker: You also have to love what you do – you cannot fake passion. People can see right through that. #leadershipchat -8:14 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@jessicamalnik 100% yes! RT @Starbucker: You also have to love what you do – you cannot fake passion. People can see right through that. #leadershipchat -8:14 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe Absolutely > RT @Starbucker: You also have to love what you do – you cannot fake passion. People can see right through that. #leadershipchat -8:14 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis Vision, clarity of purpose, consistency of direction cal all be hallmarks of passion in leadership. #leadershipchat -8:14 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly RT @Starbucker: You also have to love what you do – you cannot fake passion. People can see right through that. #LeadershipChat -8:14 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff Yes. RT @PatRobeck1ofHis: I think that you need to have a vision first, in order to have something to be passionate about. #leadershipchat -8:14 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite RT @Starbucker: You also have to love what you do – you cannot fake passion. People can see right through that. #leadershipchat -8:14 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@artchickhb RT @Starbucker: You also have to love what you do – you cannot fake passion. People can see right through that. #leadershipchat -8:14 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@PatRobeck1ofHis I think that you need to have a vision first, in order to have something to be passionate about. #LeadershipChat -8:14 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Starbucker You also have to love what you do – you cannot fake passion. People can see right through that. #leadershipchat -8:13 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MargieClayman@CASUDI for me, vision serves as a motivation, and it keeps my passion on a path instead of all over the darned place. #leadershipchat -8:13 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@fredmcclimans@swoodruff Passion & enthusiasm go hand-in-hand. The issue is your perspective: inward or outward? Pope or Cheerleader? #leadershipchat -8:13 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@arowect#leadershipchat personality may get you there, passion keeps you there, thats my theory -8:13 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly RT @MegIrving: “A great leader’s courage to fulfill his vision comes from passion, not position.”-John Maxwell #LeadershipChat -8:13 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@CASUDI@swoodruff so U could have short “bouts” of passion w/o vision ~ agree ~ it’s the enduring/continuing that is key #leadershipchat -8:13 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Virulens “The only man never to be redeemed is the man without passion.” Ayn Rand. The irredeemable is not a great leader I think. #LeadershipChat -8:13 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LisaPetrilli@MegMathur Love that example! Unique kind of leadership, and everyone surrounding him exudes passion as well. #LeadershipChat -8:13 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@charityestrella I agree that leading with vision is a by-product of true passion. Vision = solutions, mission = band-aids. #leadershipchat -8:12 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MegIrving “A great leader’s courage to fulfill his vision comes from passion, not position.”-John Maxwell #leadershipchat -8:12 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LVSConsulting Hi all – just stumbled upon #leadershipchat and, like others, will lurk a bit until I can contribute in a valued way… Thx! -8:12 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@TheBrandChef@MargieClayman oh no… passion has heart in it, it just may mean there is a need for it… you hit enthusiasm right on ! #leadershipchat -8:12 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ServantTweeter Pig or Chicken Leadership? The Chicken contributed the Pig was Passionate about your breakfast gave his life! #Leadershipchat -8:12 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Starbucker RT @DWesterberg: Not only passion – but leader knows how to find what to celebrate & energize team (yes, yes, yes!) #leadershipchat -8:12 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@megmathur Bruce Springsteen. Watch Live at Dublin. He surrounds himself w/ experts and gives them turns in the spotlight.@LisaPetrilli#LeadershipChat -8:11 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ckburgess#LeadershipChat First and foremost, you need a burning drive to make things better-Change management is grueling process -8:11 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe Enthusiasm can wane; passion seems deeper, more sustainable #LeadershipChat -8:11 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff@CASUDI I think it’s very hard to have enduring passion without a clear vision. #leadershipchat -8:11 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MargieClayman@ldiomede oooh, wine would make me tired. If I could I’d pump myself full of Red Bull before #leadershipchat (that would be awful) -8:11 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ntalukdar3 “One person with passion is greater than 50 people who are merely interested.” Can’t remember who said it… #leadershipchat -8:11 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis@DavidHolzmer I would agree with you. Can also be reflected in an intensity or focus of purpose, don’t you think? #leadershipchat -8:11 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite@Starbucker You are dead on (as usual). Leading by example is paramount, and a true display of passion. #leadershipchat -8:10 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff@JanelleBowden That’s a good question. I think of enthusiasm in more emotional terms. Passion deeper (but w/emotion still) #leadershipchat -8:10 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe RT @MargieClayman: People are comparing passion to buzz & bullets. Sometimes it can be soft tho, like a cool wind on a hot day. #leadershipchat -8:10 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite RT @Starbucker: Another way to show passion – lead by example. Never be afraid to roll up your sleeves and dig in (w/ a smile, of course!) #leadershipchat -8:10 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@DWesterberg Not only passion – but leader knows how to find what to celebrate & energize team – when we win – greater good wins #leadershipchat -8:10 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MargieClayman People are comparing passion to buzz & bullets. Sometimes it can be soft tho, like a cool wind on a hot day. #leadershipchat -8:10 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@pprothe@Garyvee seems to exude passion everywhere he connects. I think of him when I think of passion. #LeadershipChat but many show it more subtly -8:10 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@TheBrandChef Leadership & transparency / Growth in the age of soci media or too easy to “fake?” 1st time participant, long time lurker. #leadershipchat -8:09 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ldiomede@petevosspr Welcome Pete. BRace yourself. #LEadershipChat will wear you out. I like to have a glass of wine beforehand -8:09 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@RichardNatoli For me it comes down to one thing. If the leader doesn’t seem excited and passionate I wonder why the should I be? #leadershipchat -8:09 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis How would you define passion in a leader? I think its good to have a common understanding of what we’re talking about. #leadershipchat -8:09 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly RT @ckburgess: Leaders are “people who leave their footprints in their areas of passion.” Author Unknown #LeadershipChat -8:08 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@arowect@LisaPetrilli#leadershipchat passion is shared through doing and showing that you care, putting time in is a big factor -8:08 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@ckburgess Leaders are “people who leave their footprints in their areas of passion.” Author Unknown #LeadershipChat -8:08 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff@AmySwipeRite Well, I’m not always outwardly enthusiastic. I used to think that meant lack of passion, but not so. #leadershipchat -8:08 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@CASUDI@pprothe one day I hope to have people move furniture for me #leadershipchat (leaders should be willing to do anything!) -8:08 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@AmySwipeRite RT @Starbucker: How best to “show” passion? Keep the high positive energy, always, as hard as that may be to do #leadershipchat -8:07 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@petevosspr I’m Pete, new to #LeadershipChat. Graduate student at Gonzaga in Comms/Leadership, and do PR/SM for RealNetworks, aka @RealTweeter -8:07 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Starbucker How best to “show” passion? Keep the high positive energy, always, as hard as that may be to do #leadershipchat -8:07 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JanelleBowden A leader without passion is like a softdrink without bubbles… no buzz #leadershipchat -8:07 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@wilsonellis@CASUDI I know, I know. But family comes first. I’ve had health issues to deal with. Everyone is healing nicely. #leadershipchat -8:07 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly I would consider Brian Clark @copyblogger to be passionate – He is a passionate leader in copywriting – Just read his blog! #LeadershipChat -8:06 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis@swoodruff As you defined it in your post today, I would agree that passion is a big strength in a leader. #leadershipchat -8:06 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@Doctor_Wu73#leadershipchat Mark Messier – former NHL captain – wears heart on sleeve. Picked others up. Never quit. Set an example. True leadership -8:05 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@swoodruff Indeed! RT @mikesansone: I can follow a leader with a passion, hard to follow a leader with a pathy (apathy) #leadershipchat -8:04 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis Woot! Firsta official #leadershipchat from the beginning. So excited. Feel like a kid in a candy store…. -8:04 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@mikesansone I can follow a leader with a passion, hard to follow a leader with a pathy (apathy) #LeadershipChat -8:03 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@MargieClayman everyone is used to my Tuesday routine now, right? #leadershipchat followed without pause by #custserv! Join me, mah friends! -8:03 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@charityestrella RT @jdebberly: Heads Up to my followers: I will be participating in a new chat tonight – #LeadershipChat from 8p to 9p ET. You’re Invited! -8:03 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JanelleBowden Hi everyone. Thought I’d pop in today and check out this chat. Will probably lurk until I feel I have something to offer. #leadershipchat -8:02 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LisaPetrilli Let’s get this party started. We’re talking Importance of Passion in #leadership – Who strikes U as passionate leader & WHY? #LeadershipChat -8:02 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@TheAfter5Edge RT @JDEbberly: Heads Up to my followers: I will be participating in a new chat tonight – #LeadershipChat from 8p to 9p ET. You’re Invited! -8:01 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@JDEbberly Heads Up to my followers: I will be participating in a new chat tonight – #LeadershipChat from 8p to 9p ET. You’re Invited! -8:01 PM Nov 30th, 2010
@LisaPetrilli@swoodruff A large number of PASSIONATE leaders, I hope. Just like Sicilians – who are passionate, not wrathful! #leadershipchat -8:00 PM Nov 30th, 2010
#LeadershipChat is hosted each Tuesday at 8pmET by @LisaPetrilli and @swoodruff (mug-shots below). This week’s chat was an “open-mic” format: bring it, and discuss it.
We spent a good bit of time discussing the differences between Leadership, influence, motivation and manipulation. We also discussed the hiring/firing of bad apples and what it takes to be a leader – even if you are not in a leadership role. There was also an interesting discussion about surrounding yourself with the right team, prompted in part by @LouImbriano, and some interesting marriage-related comments by @berkson0 - all in all a great “open mic” discussion. I hope you enjoy the transcript as much as I enjoyed participating in the chat.
And please, remember to read from the bottom up! One additional note: If you’d like to see this type of summary for the Analyst/Influence chat that Steve Loudermilk (@loudyoutloud) and I host each week, let me know and I’ll hire somebody to make it happen =:-)
@LouImbriano@fredmcclimans: Sometimes the best way to judge a person is by the company they keep, who they trust, who they follow #leadershipchat <~ YES -9:25 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@fredmcclimans Goodnight all, and thank you for giving me something (and some people) to be thankful for this year. #leadershipchat -9:22 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@bruceserven RT @CASUDI: Thankful for the teams, individuals and other supporters who have helped me be successful in many endevours #Leadershipchat -9:21 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@CarlSorvino RT @LisaPetrilli: Time 2 get back onto I-65, I am so thankful for #LeadershipChat family – wishing you all the happiest of Thanksgivings! See you next Tues! -9:18 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @LisaPetrilli Time 2 get back onto I-65, I am so thankful for #LeadershipChat family – wishing you all the happiest of Thanksgivings! See you next Tues! -9:18 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@LisaPetrilli@livepath You are a sweetheart! Will I get to finally meet you at SXSW or SOBCon? I’m planning to be at both… #LeadershipChat -9:10 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@SeanMcGinnis@LisaPetrilli Thanks so much for #leadershipchat. Sorry I was late. Hope to do better next week, and hope to meet IRL at the Drake on 1st! -9:10 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@CarlSorvino RT @swoodruff: Happy Thanksgiving, all you fine #LeadershipChat folks! See you next Tuesday! <—Ditto! Bummed I missed tonight’s chat. -9:09 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@swoodruff Happy Thanksgiving, all you fine #LeadershipChat folks! See you next Tuesday! -9:08 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@swoodruff Can’t seem to get WhattheHashtag to work for tonight’s #LeadershipChat transcript. Anyone smarter than me know how to pull this off? -9:06 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@mccjustin@SeanMcGinnis (re hr) I’m learning culture fit, then passion, then skillset, then job req’s is the filtering that works best #leadershipchat -9:03 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@LisaPetrilli@Robert_Rose That’s twice in 1 day you’ve been a sweetie… Thank you, kind sir I’m thankful we’re on similar journeys… #LeadershipChat -9:02 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @LouImbriano@berkson0 if your going to cook the meal, you should have input on the groceries. I believe Bill Parcells stated that once. #leadershipchat -9:01 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @quality1 Awesome RT @swoodruff Ill tell you what Im thankful for. I get to see my Marine son tomorrow, back from Guantanamo! Yee-haw! #leadershipchat -9:01 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @fredmcclimans@berkson0 People spend more time vetting employees than spouses. Potential spouses and background checks = bad… Very bad. #leadershipchat -9:01 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @SeanMcGinnis@mccjustin As a lawyer, I understand it as well. As a business leader, I agree completely that building a case 1st stinks. #leadershipchat -9:00 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @livepath So far, vision, team, empathy, example, ability to grow people…. #leadershipchat. Keep it ccomin’ -8:59 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @SeanMcGinnis RT @livepath: As a leader, my biggest strength is my strategic vision and ability to set direction based on that strategy. #leadershipchat -8:59 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @LisaPetrilli New Q – What to do if part of C-Suite incl yourself strongly disagree w/CEO strategies? #LeadershipChat -8:58 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @swoodruff I’ll tell you what I’m thankful for. I get to see my Marine son tomorrow, back from Guantanamo! Yee-haw! #leadershipchat -8:58 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @SeanMcGinnis@mccjustin I think you;re right about the big co allowing firing (after dotted I’s and crossed T’s) Need 2 bld case 1st. #leadershipchat -8:57 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @livepath Finish this statement: As a leader, my biggest strength is my ______. Talk amongst yourselves. #leadershipchat -8:57 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @CASUDI Thankful for the teams, individuals and other supporters who have helped me be successful in many endevours #Leadershipchat -8:57 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @newholla I fault managers/leaders for perpetuating the “bad apples”, it doesn’t happen overnight #leadershipchat -8:56 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @quality1 Got to run. Happy Thanksgiving 2 those who celebrate it. Thanks for sharing your knowledge! Lisa & Steve-thx 4 this chat #leadershipchat -8:56 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @SeanMcGinnis Also thankful for the investment my co has made in developing me. Recently completed adv leadership course. Twas great! #leadershipchat -8:56 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @mccjustin I found in small business it was hard to fire, in big biz (corp) some HR gymnastics, but was easier to fire. SMB handcuffs #leadershipchat -8:55 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @davidmcgraw I am thankful for the Men and Women who participate in this chat. Without them, my Tuesday evenings would not be the same #LeadershipChat -8:54 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @quality1 RT @pprothe …if..chance, isnt it better 2 focus on whats working? the positive. Motivate into action vs submission#leadershipchat -8:54 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @pprothe Thanks all for Wild West #LeadershipChat. Was hard to keep the fingers on the keyboard. -8:54 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @LisaPetrilli I agree; thankful for oppt’y 2 share vision RT @ckburgess: #LeadershipChat – Thankful for Twitter & ability to share leadership vision -8:53 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @livepath Thankful for my family, freedom, intelligent network of friends/peers, work that I love and serving the best clients around. #leadershipchat -8:53 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @steinerm@jimworth agreed, and the coach MUST be able to accept the fact that there are *issues* and be willing to address them. #Leadershipchat -8:53 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @swoodruff@mccjustin Open Mic. We’ve been talking about manipulation, firing bad employees, and what we’re thankful for! #leadershipchat -8:53 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @SeanMcGinnis I’m thankful to be given the freedom to re-invent our business from the ground up. #leadershipchat -8:52 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @sixuntilme RT @pprothe: Seriously-if given chance, isn’t it better to focus on what’s working? the positive. Motivate into action versus submission #leadershipchat -8:52 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @pprothe Seriously-if given chance, isn’t it better to focus on what’s working? the positive. Motivate into action versus submission #leadershipchat -8:52 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @sixuntilme@swoodruff That makes sense from a business perspective. But not all leaders are “bosses.” Some are part of social circles. #leadershipchat -8:51 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @swoodruff What am I thankful for? “Meeting” all of you here (and some of you in real life – Lisa, Kerri, Lou, Leigh…) #leadershipchat -8:51 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @livepath@swoodruff toxic attitudes are often trickle down from toxic (past/present) leadership though. Gotta use care #leadershipchat -8:51 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @davidmcgraw I worked for an exec whose motto was fire the leadership team and the troops will come in line #LeadershipChat -8:50 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @blehr11@CASUDI OK if keep buddy for u but does cause resentment with remaing staff tuff to carry small Co #LeadershipChat -8:50 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @sixuntilme@newholla Totally true. Sometimes it’s ignorance that can be educated out of them. And other times they’re just rotten. #leadershipchat -8:49 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @swoodruff@sixuntilme I think you can re-align people in mismatched roles. But toxic attitudes (over the long haul)? Risky investment. #leadershipchat -8:49 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @livepath Many of us have been cheesed by reorg/termination happy Csuite & exp. the fallout. FIRE EVERYONE is often a lemming call. #leadershipchat -8:49 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @quality1 RT @fredmcclimans Hiring much more important than firing. …weeding out under-performers (or personality mismatches) works. #leadershipchat -8:48 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @jimworth Coaching and transparency can help the bad apples get better. You change the people(coach) or change the people (replace) #leadershipchat -8:48 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @steinerm Def convenient! RT @DavidHolzmer: Cant it also be–in *some* cases, not all–that the “bad apples” are actually scapegoats? #Leadershipchat -8:48 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @steinerm@LisaPetrilli it was and still is, but diff people at diff levels have diff perspectives, all of which are valuable & true #Leadershipchat -8:47 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @fredmcclimans Hiring is much more important than firing. That said, weeding out under-performers (or even personality mis-matches) works. #leadershipchat -8:47 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @davidmcgraw@swoodruff No empl performance tolerance 2night. I suspect we would have all been fired at some point by theses standards #LeadershipChat -8:46 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @jimworth 360s are very powerful, plus a collective perf. appraisal with input from peers all lead to better performance in a matrix #leadershipchat -8:46 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @newholla@swoodruff Software sales now, mortgage sales prior. in dmand and they knw it, so they always have somthing to fall back on #leadershipchat -8:46 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @sixuntilme Some bad apples just don’t know better – do you think they can be taught to change for the better? #leadershipchat -8:46 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @DavidHolzmer Can’t it also be–in *some* cases, not all–that the “bad apples” are actually scapegoats? #leadershipchat -8:45 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @blehr11@davidmcgraw have current project causing surge I hire temps & then pick ones I like permanently worked so far #LeadershipChat -8:44 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @CASUDI@berkson0 bad situation where you had bad apple and cant fire ~ dont get into that situation my advice #leadershipchat -8:44 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @pprothe Ouch RT @swoodruff: So the main conclusion of our chat so far tonight is to FIRE PEOPLE! Wow, we have gone wild west… ;>} #leadershipchat -8:44 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @swoodruff So the main conclusion of our chat so far tonight is to FIRE PEOPLE! Wow, we have gone wild west… ;>} #leadershipchat -8:44 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @fredmcclimans@ckburgess SM/Mobile/Etc. are great communications enablers. But CEOs must resist the “monitoring” aspect. Very dangerous. #leadershipchat -8:43 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @steinerm@LisaPetrilli first step was look in the mirror. 360 helped a ton. Went w open mind to change. Pos attitude always there #Leadershipchat -8:42 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @Robert_Rose@swoodruff – pros and cons for sure.. Good folks equally motivated to not give 100% until they find out what the deal is… #LeadershipChat -8:42 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @livepath@blehr11 — Not sure I agree – Bad fit often=bad attitude… and bad apples may have great attitude & just be incompetent #leadershipchat -8:42 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @blehr11@livepath most bad apples have poor attitude or motivation bad fit lack skills & can’t learn attitude OK #LeadershipChat -8:41 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @cloudspark@swoodruff the “hall walk” test, if you walk w/ employee + no one looks up to say hi/engage, he knows they’re not a fit #leadershipchat -8:40 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @Robert_Rose@swoodruff: that’s how a bunch of the entertainment companies out here work… 6 months – shape up or your shipped out… #leadershipchat -8:40 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @CASUDI@pprothe I am a great believer of deleting bad apples ASAP ~ esp B4 the rot spreads & YES, 2 much time to deal with ~#leadershipchat -8:39 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @livepath RT @davidmcgraw: What steps do you take to differentiate between bad apples and bad fit employees? #LeadershipChat GOOD QUESTION! -8:39 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @jimworth@berkson0 absolutely. In a heavy matrix env. with few directs, Leadership is an art, it’s all about influence. #leadershipchat -8:37 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @pprothe@cloudspark And you wonder why that breath of fresh air didn’t come sooner. It’s almost instaneous when it happens #leadershipchat -8:35 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @fredmcclimans@cloudspark That happens all too often. Financial backers often have financial “timing” goals that don’t mesh w CEO’s goals. #leadershipchat -8:35 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @livepath@fredmcclimans I think vry often BOD stacks Csuite – often not good 4 comp. Have seen this in mult. startups gone public. #leadershipchat -8:34 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @livepath@LisaPetrilli In previous job, that admonishmt would have lead to my resignation. Loved the work – the job sucked/bad mgt. #leadershipchat -8:33 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @swoodruff Toxic people – get rid of immediately. Automatons – get rid of gradually. #leadershipchat -8:33 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @quality1 Agreed. Some environ has you looking over shoulder..RT @heidicohen: Needs practice & personal strength (to give ownership) #leadershipchat -8:33 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @gdahlby Can you be a leader without the ability to hire/fire? #leadershipchat In education, teachers by the score are serious leaders. -8:33 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @ldiomede@berkson0 No, you can’t – u have 2 have confidence 2 hire ppl smarter than you. And know how 2 surround yourself w/smart ppl #LeadershipChat -8:32 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @JoeCascio@swoodruff I have experienced enough “bad apples” in my career to know that the sooner and quicker the removal, the better. #leadershipchat -8:32 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @gagan_s Interesting disc on motivating vs manipulating team members. Guess it depends on goals. Whether they are shared or not. #leadershipchat -8:32 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @mantywebdesigns I’m negotiating bedtime with a five year old– leadership in action And, no, I can’t fire him. #leadershipchat -8:31 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @pprothe Yes – there are other ways to lead RT @berkson0: Can you be a leader without the ability to hire/fire? #leadershipchat -8:31 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @livepath@berkson0 I’d say you’d be a manager in that position – perhaps a natural leader but in a position really lead. #leadershipchat -8:31 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @pprothe@cloudspark Agree – have worked more than once on team with highly toxic people. They sap energy, productivity, innovation #leadershipchat -8:30 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @swoodruff@steinerm If they don’t want to excel, and perform a dead-end task satisfactorily…maybe u keep until new blood is found. #leadershipchat -8:30 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @cloudspark@pprothe fr experience, toxic team members need to be cut out asap. teams do better, co’s do better, bottom lines do better #leadershipchat -8:30 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @heidicohen Can b hard 2 do=>RT @pprothe 1 toxic person drag down team. Remove toxicity if u can; if not, focus on 12% they do well #leadershipchat -8:28 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @swoodruff@steinerm The role of a leader/boss/manager is not to babysit. Cajoling isn’t leading. Fire quickly if unwilling to work. #leadershipchat -8:27 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @quality1@LisaPetrilli I think passion is a driver, and giving ownership builds loyalty. I do this now, wish I had been wiser earlier #leadershipchat -8:27 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @pprothe One toxic person can drag down an entire team. Remove toxicity if you can; if not, try focusing on 12% they do well #leadershipchat -8:26 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @LisaPetrilli@quality1 I always asked the ppl who worked 4 me what they were passionate about & gave oppt’s 2 try new things when possibl #LeadershipChat -8:25 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @heidicohen Gr8 idea if they r willing 2 tell RT @quality1: RT @LisaPetrilli Ask them directly what motivates them? #leadershipchat -8:25 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @cr8tivejen Agreed! RT @livepath Trick is knowing operational styles of ppl you are working w/ & adapting your style to work w/ them. #leadershipchat -8:24 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @cloudspark agree, those that counter, sap motivations of teams need to be cut or moved. quickly. #leadershipchat -8:23 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @swoodruff@steinerm If you’ve given your best shot at trying to motivate and they refuse to perform, they are an anchor, not a worker #leadershipchat -8:23 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @pprothe RT @livepath: Trick is knowing the operational styles of the ppl you are working with and adapting your style to work with them. #leadershipchat -8:23 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @livepath Trick is knowing the operational styles of the ppl you are working with and adapting your style to work with them. #leadershipchat -8:23 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @fredmcclimans Anybody willing 2 admit they’ve unintentionally crossed the line from motivation 2 manipulation (lesson learned myself)? #leadershipchat -8:23 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @quality1 RT @LisaPetrilli ..ask them directly what motivates them, what theyd love to be “driving” if given …#leadershipchat -8:22 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @davidmcgraw RT @jolewitz: Love this discussion but have to go to airport to pick up my daughter – leaving now – thanks <<-Safe travels #LeadershipChat -8:19 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @davidmcgraw@ldiomede As self aware as I am, I don’t always understand a person’s agenda or motivation. Can you expand your thoughts? #LeadershipChat -8:18 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @heidicohen@CASUDI Believe that done well leadership is the journey. U need goals but how u execute against them is imp. #leadershipchat -8:18 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @livepath Motivation undrestands there’s multiple ways to get things done. Manipulation asserts that there’s one right way #leadershipchat -8:17 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @jolewitz Love this discussion but have to go to airport to pick up my daughter – leaving now – thanks all #leadershipchat -8:17 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @CASUDI@heidicohen you mean no matter what get the job done OR the end justifies the means OR it’s the journey …#leadershipchat -8:16 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @ckburgess#LeadershipChat Leaders and motivators are winners, manipulators are losers who produce resentment and discord. -8:16 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @davidmcgraw Good one. RT @livepath: Motivation= When I see U coming, I know Ill have more to do, but somehow, Ill like U better for it!” #LeadershipChat -8:15 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @livepath That was said of one of the best leaders I’ve worked with… awesome guy whom I aspire to emulate. #leadershipchat -8:15 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @CASUDI@pprothe deff depends on the intent ~ however don’t think manipulating should always be considered bad #leadershipchat -8:14 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @ckburgess#LeadershipChat Just as beauty is in the eye of the beholder, leadership is best viewed through the yes of the follower. -8:14 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @swoodruff@DavidHolzmer In the end, I think the manipulator views others as objects – means to an end. And that’s not real leadership. #leadershipchat -8:13 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @berkson0@lisapetrilli and yet talented ppl are thrust into leadership positions hoping they will “grow into it”. How can we tell? #leadershipchat -8:13 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @DavidHolzmer Also tied into the issue of manipulation is the notion of respect. Does the leader view others as colleagues or as objects? #leadershipchat -8:12 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @pprothe@CASUDI but I think of manipulation as sinister; agree that leaders must influence, direct, motivate; depends on intent, no? #leadershipchat -8:12 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @sixuntilme A leader doesn’t always have to be manipulative. Not all manipulators are leaders. Integrity needs to be part of leading. @#leadershipchat -8:12 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @swoodruff Someone who is manipulating is leading. But it’s for selfish reasons. #leadershipchat -8:12 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @steinerm it can be both. RT @swoodruff: Dictionary.com on Manipulate: to manage or influence skillfully, esp. in an unfair manner #Leadershipchat -8:11 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @CASUDI@pprothe doing whatever it takes to get something done (as a leader) can get interpreted as manipulative? #leadershipchat -8:11 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @DavidHolzmer My thought:manipulation cannot exist in a vacuum. Just like a fungus, it needs an unhealthy environment 2 support it. #leadershipchat -8:09 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @pprothe#leadershipchat – @fredmcclimans – that’s a slippery slope. If trying to maniuplate, up to something? Sounds very unauthentic, un leader -8:09 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
Feature | @swoodruff I think leadership and manipulation involve a lot of the same behaviors – but it’s purpose/intent that makes the diff. #leadershipchat -8:09 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@Robert_Rose@fredmcclimans — I guess I would say no (to can they co-exist) and ask why one would ever endeavor to be manipulative #LeadershipChat -8:08 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@DavidHolzmer Hm. Great question Fred! I think when it no longer supports mutually agreed-upon goals and methods. #leadershipchat -8:07 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@fredmcclimans Okay, serious question for you all: At what point does Leadership become Manipulation? Can they co-exist (deftly)? #leadershipchat -8:06 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@mantywebdesigns Here, too. Come over and join the conversation. RT @livepath: Sorry for the noise coming up — Im participating in #leadershipchat -8:06 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@livepath In the words of Linda Richman, “The chick pea is neither a chic nor a pea. DISCUSS.” Oh, sorry. Not my chat. #leadershipchat -8:06 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@swoodruff@lisapetrilli, who is that at the mic? Can you see? Is that Dan Perez? Which courageous leader will start? #leadershipchat -8:05 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@swoodruff@livepath Howdy, Leigh – welcome back to the most brain-building hour on the Internet! Well, it sounds good… #leadershipchat -8:04 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@Robert_Rose@swoodruff – right back atchya… Been burning the midnight oil and missin’ me some #LeadershipChat. Glad to be able to attend -8:03 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@swoodruff Lisa and Steve welcome you to the first Open Mic edition of #LeadershipChat. Roll out a question or a theme and let’s talk! #leadershipchat -8:01 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@DavidHolzmer Howdy Y’all. Glad to be here for another hour of fun and enlightenment! #leadershipchat -8:01 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@jolewitz I’m here for as long as I can -need to leave soon to p/up my daughter at airport #LeadershipChat -7:59 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@Robert_Rose RT @lisapetrilli: Grab a cocktail/beverage of your choice plus a comfy chair & please join us in 3 minutes for #LeadershipChat ! -7:59 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@berkson0 RT @lisapetrilli: Grab a cocktail/beverage of your choice plus a comfy chair & please join us in 3 minutes for #LeadershipChat ! -7:58 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@ckburgess RT @LisaPetrilli: Grab a cocktail/beverage of your choice plus a comfy chair & please join us in 3 minutes for #LeadershipChat ! -7:58 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@ckburgess RT @swoodruff: Five minutes to #LeadershipChat – open mic tonight (free-flowing discussion of whatever is on your mind) – join in! -7:58 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@LisaPetrilli Grab a cocktail/beverage of your choice plus a comfy chair & please join us in 3 minutes for #LeadershipChat ! -7:58 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@LeadershipChat Five minutes to #LeadershipChat – open mic tonight (free-flowing discussion of whatever is on your mind) – join in! -7:57 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@impactiviti Five minutes to #LeadershipChat – open mic tonight (free-flowing discussion of whatever is on your mind) – join in! -7:57 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@connectionagent Five minutes to #LeadershipChat – open mic tonight (free-flowing discussion of whatever is on your mind) – join in! -7:57 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@swoodruff Five minutes to #LeadershipChat – open mic tonight (free-flowing discussion of whatever is on your mind) – join in! -7:57 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
@swoodruff 30 minutes to #LeadershipChat. It’s like an Italian family gathering on-line, even if you’re Dutch or Canadian or mongrel like me. Join us! -7:33 PM Nov 23rd, 2010
It is a very human instinct to trust somebody the better we know them. And how well we know somebody is often a result of the amount of time we spend with them. This level of trust can often equate to how much we are willing to believe, or be influenced by, them.
Influence comes from trust.
Interestingly, many people assign human attributes to not only other people but items as well, including pets, inanimate objects (“I stubbed my toe on that stupid rock”) and, most importantly, interactive systems (such as computers). In fact, regarding interactive systems, we are rapidly moving towards the point where a growing number of people assign the same level of trust to an online venue as they might a real life friend or family member. This seems especially true in the area of search and information distribution systems, that are by design “user” friendly (translate “more humanistic”).
Unfortunately, in a world where we are all “publishers” and sources of information, not all information has the same value or trustworthiness.
As a result, many people are exposing themselves to a veritable web of incorrect or manipulated information. To some extent this abdicates our very human instincts of questioning and common sense to information sources that are inherently unreliable, easily manipulated or just simply overwhelm us in terms of the sheer volume of information that we have to deal with on a daily basis. In fact, it seems many are lowering their friendship & trust requirements to meet the abilities of the Internet-based systems with which they interact on a daily basis.
Let me illustrate with a few examples:
Example 1: Google v Bing (Nicaragua v Costa Rica)
For over a century, Nicaragua and Costa Rica have argued over a relatively small, yet seemingly important, slice of land along their north-eastern border (a dispute that was supposedly settled diplomatically over a century ago with the aid of the U.S. government). This dispute, now in front of the Organization of American States (OAS), has been renewed, with Nicaragua reclaiming the land and deploying military troops (Costa Rica, by the way, has no military of its own). It has even become part of a controversy surrounding the “rumored” desire of Nicaragua, Venezuela and Iran to build an alternative to the Panama Canal (there’s a conspiracy to bite into!).
Google, with the unenviable (but self-allocated) task of tracking global borders, is at the center of this renewed dispute, having used an admittedly erroneous map which featured an incorrect/out-dated border. Nicaragua has been touting the incorrect Google Maps version (which was subsequently/conveniently used as part of their justification to move troops into Costa Rica) while Costa Rica has been touting the correct Microsoft BING version (yes, BING got it right). Interestingly, Google Maps has since corrected their border, which Nicaragua in turn has requested not be corrected.
For many, being right equates to being first, or more well known, on the Internet.
On it’s surface, this would seem like a trivial non-event, especially given the history of the world and the inability of anybody to accurately map the world (a task that is extremely difficult as borders are constantly changing and the world is full of “disputed” territories). But Google has made their share of mistakes, including recently deleting the entire town of Sunrise, Florida (and it’s 90,000 inhabitants). More importantly, had Nicaragua not taken action against Costa Rica, I doubt that no more than a handful of people in the entire world would have noticed the error, nor would anybody else (and I’ll include myself here) had any reason to question its accuracy.
Example 2: The Wikipedia Incident.
I have a good friend who recently recounted an amazingly absurd event involving Wikipedia: the crowd-sourced online encyclopedia that has increasingly become an acceptable source of “it must be true if it is on Wikipedia” information. My friend is an expert in a certain field and happened to discover an error involving a certain event in early American history. Being the helpful guy that he is, he went through the Wikipedia registration process and corrected what was a fairly obvious error. However, the following day he discovered that his correction had been subjected to a classic “undo” and reverted back to the original inaccurate text.
Influence or control don’t always equate to experience.
After several “re-corrections” and a series of similar “undo” events, he finally tracked down the person that was rejecting his corrections – a person who apparently had a bit more Wiki-clout than my friend. After explaining that the information on Wikipedia was incorrect, and citing numerous written texts and documents as proof, his corrections were clearly and decisively rejected – the justification essentially being that the original text was corraborated by another Wikipedia entry (which itself was not only incorrect but used the original incorrect entry in a circular reference between the two entries, demonstrating that two Wiki-wrongs do in fact make a Wiki-right). So much for crowd-sourced intelligence when the crowd you are dealing with is a crowd of one.
Example 3: The $200M/Day Obama trip to India
This one simply defies logic. An official in the Maharashtra Government (a state in western India) is referenced by a story on NDTV.com which stated “A top official of the Maharashtra government privy to the arrangements for the high-profile visit has reckoned that a whopping $200 million per day would be spent by various teams coming from the US in connection with Obama’s two-day stay in the city.” This included, by the way, the erroneous renting out of the entire Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai and covering the costs of a (massively overstated) 3,000 person entourage (including the press, which works on their dime, not the U.S. government’s checking account).
This “creative” estimate from the “privy” official, as well as a subsequent NDTV.com report that 34 U.S. warships (including an aircraft carrier) were being diverted to support the President’s visit to India were picked up by the Drudge Report and subsequently became fact amongst the anti-Obama press in the U.S. By this time, a mere hour, of course, the $200M/day for the two days in India had become $2Billion: $200M/day for not just India but for the entire 10 day Asia trip (side note: we only spend $190M/day on our entire war effort in Afghanistan – see this nice rebuke by the WSJ.com). Despite a dubious source, and a series of incorrect enhancements courtesy of the instant Internet, the story gained traction – significant traction well beyond what normal common sense would dictate.
Where has our common sense gone?
There was a time when both our individual and collective common sense would have immediately questioned each of the three examples above. But increasingly that is no longer the case. We have replaced questioning of sources and common sense with a misplaced sense of trust to an often automated (or highly manipulated) information stream.
If we interact with an information system enough, we learn to trust it. This is not always a good thing.
We now live in a world where search engines (knowing that we’re more likely to click on search results at the top of the list) allow the manipulation of search results. We live in a world where not only can you sponsor Tweets on Twitter, but you can now sponsor Twitter Trends (talk about the ultimate ability to take advantage of “what’s hot now”).
Is there anything left that we can trust? Yes. Our common sense. And that is our challenge – to not only make sure that we ourselves question and fact-check what we see, read or hear (in any information/news medium), but to be a leader, help encourage, influence and empower others to do the same.
If we can do that, then perhaps we have a chance to restore some sanity and faith to this digital world in which we all live.
Note: Map Graphic courtesy of Erika Orban, Wikipedia image courtesy of Wikipedia, Barack Obama image source unknown
I read a great piece recently by my friend Lisa Petrilli on Influence vs Empowerment. She raised some excellent points about the differences between the two and, more importantly, the effectiveness of the two. And in a pure social/commercial market, her points were dead on.
One of the more interesting notes in her post was the result of research by Steve Knox, CEO of Proctor and Gamble’s WOM Unit Tremor. They found that rather than “influencers” in any given market, there were actually “connectors” – people who linked people and ideas together (perhaps a much better, or accurate, description of influence!).
But in the world of Analysts and Analysts Relations, all too often the word “influence” is the yardstick by which people, initiatives and, ultimately corporate value, are measured: How much “influence” over a particular market, or a group of analysts or a group of [pick any category that involves at least one person who buys anything] does an individual actually have, and how can they improve that.
So with a tip of the hat to Lisa and the work of Steve Knox and the team at Tremor, I think that there are some very distinct ways that we can alter/change/improve the way that we “connect” people and ideas together with the ultimate goal of shaping (influencing) an analysts decision to recommend a product, or ultimately (and perhaps directly) a consumer’s decision to purchase a product, in favor of another vendor’s product. Ideally, this influence should be subtle enough to allow the analyst or consumer to feel that they have made the correct choice themselves, as a result of their own empowerment and selection process.
Here are a few things to think about – questions that are worth answering as we begin to consider just how much influence vs “connective ability” Analysts and Analyst Relations people actually have, and how they can improve it:
Can “empowerment” actually be used to shape an Analyst’s opinion of a vendor’s product?
Can a vendor’s Analyst Relations team go directly to an end-user, bypassing an Analyst, to both help shape an Analyst’s opinion AND drive direct sales results? And does this violate the separation of AR & Marketing?
Is there value in a vendor’s Analyst Relations team working directly with Marketing and Public Relations to help shape the way that a vendors customers (believers) can become connectors, and increase a vendor’s brand awareness
Can basic outreach techniques (blogging, speaking, etc.) be used by a vendor’s Analyst Relations team to help create a larger group of “connectors” (and thus influence) in a market?
Note: Image courtesy of the band Under the Influence of Giants self-titled album released 2006 on Island Records
Last week I participated in an interesting discussion regarding influence and the role of analyst relations (AR) – specifically around the issue of how AR staff could increase their influence through a variety of different mechanisms or channels. But one key point that kept creeping into the conversation was one of limited resources: “we simply don’t have the staff to aggressively pursue everything that we would like to accomplish” (a point echoed by many in smaller or fast-growing firms).
After a bit of digging, two basic issues kept making their way into the discussion: a lack of full-time resources and a lack of “R”-level funding (which is often split between Analyst Relations, Investor Relations, Public Relations and Marketing).
That said, there seemed to be a general consensus that yes, there are “parts” of the AR function, regardless of the size of the firm, that could be outsourced based on the size/type of organization, the goals that need to be accomplished and the availability of “outside” resources (or more importantly, funding) – all with the understanding that there must be an accountable person in-house to properly manage and drive the effort.
OUTSOURCING
Here are three basic examples where outsourcing of AR activities might make sense:
The Introduction: Sometimes finding the right analyst, or getting in front of the right analyst, can be a challenge. This can be difficult in situations where a firm is moving into a new market sector (product and/or geographic) and may not be familiar with the most appropriate information analysts to reach (think of a US firm trying to move into ASIA/PAC as an example). Using an outside resource (an agency, advisor or perhaps even another industry analyst) to help find the right “connected” or “influencial” person can be extremely effective.
The Event: Outsourcing clearly makes sense whenever the word “event” is involved. In fact, the bigger or more important the event, the more outsourcing becomes a viable option (especially for a staff-constrained AR team). Much of the event coordination and publicity can (and should be) handled by hired guns (working under your direction, of course) and free up an AR pros time for more 1:1 analyst “relationship building” activities. This is also a great opportunity to involve PR and Marketing (see below).
The Startup: For firms that are just entering into the market, the ability to recruit – and pay for – a quality AR team may simply be beyond their means (CAPEX vs OPEX in a manner of speaking). In this situation, outsourcing the entire AR function to an outside “professional” team, under the control of a “C”-level or Senior “R”-level person my be the most cost-effective approach (especially if the level of work activity will fluctuate considerably over the first year or two).
Now let’s take a look at “insourcing” as a means to leverage in-house budgets and expertise to your advantage.
INSOURCING
As I mentioned above, AR typically competes with IR, PR and Marketing for budget allocation. Interestingly, all of these functions tend to be a bit cyclical in nature and feed off of each other: it is not uncommon to find periods where one group is more “active” than another (that is not to say that any of these groups have “time off” or have any idle time on their hands). But depending upon the situation, the best outsourced resource for AR may actually be an insourced resource in the form of IR, PR and Marketing. This type of in-house insourcing, or collaboration, is something that most organizations could, and should, benefit from if properly executed (different roles, but working to help each other out by lending their own expertise).
This is not to say that every time AR needs a helping hand that they should look to an internal corporate ‘R” function for support, but rather that part of any company’s “R” strategy should include a dose of cross-function support. This not only helps with resource and budgetary issues, but can also be part of a much larger integrated marketing campaign (IMC) that can best get solid, reliable results when IR, AR, PR and Marketing are all working in sync with each other (notice I’ve left out sales – that is a separate function for a different discussion). Remember that while all of the “R” functions have very different responsibilities and areas of expertise, coordination of effort is critical to the success of any firm.
THE PARTING THOUGHT
There are clearly times when outsourcing AR/Influence-related tasks can make sense – certainly the number of established PR, Marketing and Investor Relations agencies show that this model can work extremely well if executed properly. There are also times when, do to the nature or sensitivity of the work, outsourcing may not be a viable option. But if you are a small firm, or branching out into new market sectors, outsourcing certain AR “outreach” functions can definitely work (from both an access/influence and a financial perspective). And if you are a larger, more established firm, a combination of outsourcing and cross-function insourcing should definitely be part of your overall strategy.
One important item to keep in mind in both of these scenarios is “expertise”. Before you outsource anything related to corporate “influence”, make sure that you are selecting the right person (or team) for the job. Going with the lowest-cost option is almost always the wrong approach, while overpaying for “bloated reputation” can often be a waste of time, money and opportunity.
If you are in a position (or think that you might be at some point in the future) where in-house insourcing is a viable option, make sure that there is an established cross-training program and a solid team focus in place as part of the corporate culture before you start to rely on other groups for support. And remember, if you ask for support from one of your other in-house “R” functions, don’t be surprised if you are asked to return the favor – that’s what teamwork is all about.
My first true experience in the world of B2B marketing was in 1990. My task was simple: market one of our new products to company “X”. My task could not have been simpler – while “X” was not a current customer/partner, they were very well known for purchasing our type of product, which was then integrated and resold as part of their own, much larger, product line.
Diligently, I worked my way into their organization armed with all the right information. I knew exactly what and how much they were buying, what their key price points were, who the buyer would be, who evaluated new products, who the decision maker would be and, most importantly, who controlled the funding.
“my B2B had become a B Not 2 B”
And after 9 months of chasing every lead, every opportunity, meeting at every trade show, and even managing to get their staff to do a side-by-side product comparison, I was left with absolutely nothing. No sale. No opportunity. Nothing.
Nothing, that is, except the realization that I had started my task without one necessary key bit of information: the name of the actual “influencer” who could make such a deal a reality. For lack of this name, my B2B had become a B Not 2 B.
In this case, it turned out that the influencer was the head of operations for a single customer of my target, a customer that had such a significant installed base that when my target inquired about their willingness to introduce a new product (mine) into their network, they informed my target that while they were not totally happy with the existing product mix, they saw no value in adding a new, potentially disruptive, component into their network, even if it was smaller and less expensive. It had nothing to do with price or features and everything to do with mitigation of risk and not having to retrain their internal staff on a network that was “doing just fine”.
Had I known this to begin with, I would have found a way to “influence” my target’s actual customer directly. It may have worked, or it may not have. But I do know that my chances of success would have increased considerably (and yes, I do think I could have closed the deal).
In the years since, the lesson I learned has driven my business decisions in every single venture I’ve started: if you identify the key influencer any deal, and get them to buy into your product or concept before your actual market pitch to the target buyer, your chances of success increases significantly (your time to sale can decrease as well).
As a side note, one other lesson I’ve learned is that if you can’t convince the influencer (especially if it is your target’s customer) of your value, it’s sometimes, but not always, better to factor in the opportunity cost and find a better prospect.
Flash forward to today and the era of social marketing and the ever increasing pace of technology and product development. It’s more important than ever to understand how each individual deal is influenced, and who is involved as they key influencer, which can differ extremely on a case-by-case basis. It may be a person within the business you are targeting, or it may be consultant, advisor or industry analyst. Or, like my first experience, it may be a customer of your target (or a collective group of customers) who in turn may be influenced by their own C2C communications or consultants, advisors and industry analysts (industry analysts, btw, are my favorite starting point, since a really good analyst will know who the consultants and advisors are working with, as well as the requirements of both vendors and consumers in any given market).
The real challenge today is in identifying the real influencer(s), as the number and type of people who can influence a B2B (or B2C) deal has grown tremendously (as has the speed with which, in the era of social networking , a deal can be influenced one way or another). As a result, an increased number of purchasing/partnership deals that are not totally internally driven involve more than one outside “influencer” – a trend that mirrors both uncertainty in the consumer space as well as the fragmentation of the consultant/advisor/analyst space.
To counter this, we see a strong requirement for an increased level of cross-domain collaboration within businesses, involving marketing, public relations, analyst relations and even customer support being required to correctly identify and target the influencer in any B2B or B2C marketing or sales strategy.
So although the technologies and markets may have changed, the “influencer” axiom, which has been around since the first bartered exchange in human history, applies today more than ever, and is one of the first questions I always ask myself before beginning any business effort.
And if this question isn’t one of the first questions you ask, it should be.
In any given industry, there exists a symbiotic relationship between vendors, analysts and customers. Each one is vying for their piece of nirvana: the best value for their dollar spent. In an industry, such as the IT industry, where analysts play a significant role, it is assumed that they are the “influencers” in the market, but in reality, it doesn’t always, and shouldn’t, work that way.
Earlier this year, Steve Loudermilk (@loudyoutloud) and I started the #ARchat group on Twitter to discuss issues involving the Analyst/Influencer Relations industry: essentially an open forum to discuss how vendor-based Analyst Relations (AR) professionals and Industry Analysts interact (I use the term “industry” here to differentiate from financial or other types of analysts). Through the course of the year, we’ve covered many topics that have yielded some very interesting discussions.
Throughout all of these discussions, however, I’ve been noticing a common thread involving “influence” and the fact that not everybody views the influencer:influencee relationship in the same manner. The most common mis-perspective is the traditional viewpoint that the Analyst is the market’s influencer (since their role is to be a trusted advisor to their client – the Vendor’s consumer – by providing advice regarding technologies, trends, implementation strategies, etc. that “influence” their clients actions). However, that is an incomplete view, that leaves out the more complicated relationships with Vendors and Clients/Consumers.
In this view (Perspective A), the Analyst sits atop the influence model as the sole provider of guidance to both Consumers and Vendors. Sorry, but this just isn’t how it works. Perspective B provides a bit more clarity, demonstrating that a good Vendor “educates” an Analyst about their product capabilities, and the Analyst then provides the the appropriate advice/guidance to their Client (the Vendor’s Customer) who can then make their own choice, based on what is right for their needs (features, budget, availability, scalability, etc.). But even this viewpoint, while better, is still incomplete.
Hopefully, as shown in Perspective B, the Vendors and Analysts learn to share information in a two-way manner. But more importantly, there are, in fact, three distinct influencers in any given market, the Vendor, the Analyst AND the Client/Consumer. Perspective C shows a more complete “sphere of influence”, and how symbiotic each of the three different groups are (note here that there is a tangential sphere of influence that exists solely within the Consumer community, a great example being Trade Associations, who tend to have their own collaborative exchange and discussions about best practices when it comes to Vendor products & implementation strategies).
But the most complete picture of how a market sphere of influence works is when you take a look at Perspective D. In this influence model, you can see that the entire market is driven by a series of multi-directional channels of communication, where each of the three players (Vendors, Analysts, Consumers) have their own way of providing influence (in the form of information, requirements, capabilities, etc.) that get communicated to the other two players in the market.
In this way, the best possible product offerings can be designed and deployed, giving each of the three participants what they need – the best value for their dollar spent. Note too that in Perspective D I have placed the Consumer at the top of the circle, since they ultimately control what is purchased, and their needs and requirements should be what ultimately influences the market.
Unfortunately, this isn’t always how the system works. And, of course, there are a series of other methods that dictate how information and requirements (and thus influence) are distributed through the group. But in the basic world of Vendors, Analysts and Customers, this sphere of influence is definitely a 3-way street with the Customer directing traffic.