a second look business consulting » motivation

Failure – A Prerequisite To Success

Ken Bear Cole — Tue, 18 May 2010 04:42:58 +0000

It is not shameful to fail in life, but it is horrible to never try again. For many, failure is actually a vital aspect to becoming successful and great. Many great people have filed bankruptcy or been told they have no talent or skill. This was the catalyst that determined Michael Jordan to become a great athlete. Thomas Edison said that he discovered thousands of ways that a light bulb will not work, but he continued on his quest to discover the electrical light. Einstein’s mother was told that her son was unteachable. The boy hardly spoke until he was 5 years old. His mind was too busy learning, to worry about forming words.

Thousands of people are without jobs today. For some, it is to no fault of their own. Their company simply needed to reduce staff or went out of business. But most feel wounded and diminished because of their temporary inability to contribute income and financial security.

Similar feelings tend to erupt when a businessperson discovers their services terminated or product orders cancelled because of quality. An honest examination is required to determine the cause of the problem and make adjustments. This should lead you toward greatness, because you are being offered a gift and opportunity to examine what is needed to become better. All great people and businesses must have the ability to recover from wounds and injuries. For those with inadequate financial resources, you may need to close your business and start over. Though it is extremely painful, hopefully the experience has made you wiser and more capable for future ventures.

As long as you do not give into the destructive lies that accuse You of failure, you can continue to grow closer to greatness.

Ken Bear Cole

A Second look Business Consulting LLC

What Motivates Your People?

Ken Bear Cole — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:11:33 +0000

We are all motivated by different things. Many say they are motivated by money, but evidence indicates that most of us are motivated by the lack of money. How many of us have sung the tune, “I owe, I owe, so off to work I go.” When I speak of motivation, I am talking about those things that are at the core of our personality.

Peace, Tranquility, No Conflict

Many of us who are overly stressed of simply easy going, will sign up for this group. They don’t want to make waves, but fairness is very important to this group. They seldom suggest a new lunch location. Sometimes these people appear to be difficult to motivate, but just don’t make things harder then necessary.

The Detail Oriented

These people love all of the details. These are great Financial, IT and Analytical people, but sometimes become bogged down in the details. At times you need to remind them that the task is to mow the lawn, rather then count the blades of grass. These people are irreplaceable in determining supply requirements and making sure lists are complete.

Power & Control

It is seldom difficult to determine these people in your group. They believe their suggestions are some of the best. At times they can become overbearing beasts, which are driven by insecurity. But, these are valuable people who are willing to take on the responsibilities of overseeing projects and training others.

The Fun Lovers

These people try to make things fun with a joke, a story or just a smile. They inject others with joy and enthusiasm. Many enjoy rules, but they must have room for a little flair and enjoyment. A depressed fun lover is a truly sad person. They will want to quit if they cannot find joy in what they do.

Most of us are a blend of two of these traits, but any of these groups can become leaders. It is important to find yourself and be able to read others. It will help you interact with others, because we all want our basic needs met.

Ken Bear Cole

A Second Look Business Consulting LLC

Are You Willing To Become A Hero?

Ken Bear Cole — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 20:13:23 +0000

How do you become a hero? In combat heroes are made because of someone’s courage to face peril, in order to protect others.

In business, things are slightly different. Courage and determination are required, but few will risk their physical lives, though they may become victimized for standing against corruption. Heroes in business are creative innovators, who are not willing to settle for the status quo. They want more. More profits for the company. Better morale among employees. Heroes are constantly looking for ways to improve and become distinctive.

Branding is a current buzz term, which encourages business to become identifiable via logo or style. Heroes simply are different, because they are willing to go beyond the typical. Industries are formed because someone is willing to do what others avoid. Heroes believe in serving others rather then destroying people just to get ahead. Heroes are promoted by their piers and customers, because they work hard and meeting promised deadlines, even when it requires putting in long hours. You may be disappointed when they say NO to your deadline, because they know they will not be able to meet it; but you will love them for being honest and proposing a new delivery date, which they will meet.

Heroes do not leave customers wondering what happened. If they are delayed by problems with a supplier, they will notify you of the potential problem. Heroes are honest, and their customers, employers and employees honor them for it.

Our world needs more heroes. Are you willing to pay the price to earn the title of Hero?

Ken Bear Cole

A Second Look Business Consulting LLC

Improving Morale Will Prevent Losses

Ken Bear Cole — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 05:03:41 +0000

In a down economy you need to improve you business operations to prevent losses. It is often the lower paid employees who have the greatest opportunity to cost you money. The losses happen because of waste, accidents, carelessness and apathy. This is typically caused by a lack of belonging and poor motivation. Your worker bees don’t see themselves as important to the company, but the truth is, they are critical to your success.

It is much like linemen on a football team. They are seldom mentioned unless they cause a penalty for the team. But without a solid group of linemen no team could win a game. Linemen make it possible for the superstars of the team to score the points. It is much the same in your business. Think of those employees who fix the errors of others. They get the products to your customers or greet everyone with a smile and professionalism. Without these heroes your company would loose customers and profits.

But how do you reward these unsung heroes during a recession? Pay raises are seldom the answer. When things are tight you cannot afford a 15% – 25% pay raise. A small 3% raise is more likely to become an irritant to your employee. Appreciation of their hard work will work wonders! Support people are not looking for a parade, but the do need a heart felt Thank You! Appreciation does not add any strain to your budget, but it will cause your employees to work harder and make fewer mistakes. Your operation will run smoother as you create a team like atmosphere.

I remember a route driver who was having his truck repaired at the company motor pool. He ran into the CEO of this company of over 500 employees, while waiting for his truck. The commission route driver offered to have the mechanic work on the CEO’s car before his truck. The CEO said this in response. “No you need to get back on the road. I am sorry you need to take time for maintenance, because you guys are the Important Ones. I am just overhead. This company wouldn’t exist with out you doing your job!” What a smart manager and he really made me feel great. Those words helped make me a loyal employee.

Ken Bear Cole

A Second Look Business Consulting LLC