IS IT A CHEVY OR IS IT A CADDY?

First Reaction/First Glance
Has perception ever convinced you that something is better than it really is?

Whether you drive a Chevrolet or a Cadillac, you can pretty much guarantee that you will get where you’re going in the same amount of time. However, it is true that others will see you differently as you travel to your destination.


The Learning Process
Recently, in an Executive Meeting, one of our committee members challenged me with this question in regards to the new Cincinnati office building, to which we will relocate in the near future. At first, I was stunned and frustrated with his comment but as I thought more about it, I began to focus on what he really meant. Can we accomplish the same by spending less but ultimately create the same results?

The answer is yes, however, how will that look to others?


Improvement for the Future
TP Mechanical Contractors is changing – we are changing our culture, while our partners and employees are improving their work/life balance. These efforts say to our customers that we are performing the same services as our competition, only at higher levels.

The bottom line is that you may not see any orange and blue Cadillacs here but TP Mechanical is becoming the Cadillac of mechanical contractors by utilizing an upstream leadership approach which has created greater values downstream to our customers, employees, and our partners.

DO YOU KNOW A DOUBTING THOMAS?

First Reaction/First Glance
It is true that you will always find enough reasons to support your belief whether it’s regarding someone you know or perhaps something changing in your life. Regardless, we at times are convinced that we are right until there is clear evidence to change our minds.

The Learning Process
As you go through life, how do you look at people or new ideas? By instantly judging and deciding what you don’t like? Or do you look at the values and strengths that the person or the idea will provide? When you are being introduced to a new person or a change is occurring in your life, I believe looking at their values and strengths will almost guarantee that your belief system will bear fruit that will enrich your life in everything you do.

Improvement for the Future
As you navigate through your days and weeks, a good suggestion is for you to put your thoughts and beliefs on pause for a few moments and then look for the values and the strengths in these situations. In time, I believe this will help you look at both people and new situations/issues in a light that will add value to your life and leadership.

Imagine if we eliminated just 10% of the “Doubting Thomas’” in the world. How much more could we accomplish?

RECOGNITION

First Reaction/First Glance
It is common knowledge these days that recognition of a job well done far outweighs salaries and bonuses earned by the people who work for you or with you.

So, are phrases such as “Thank You”, “Way to go”, or “Atta-Boy” your way of recognizing accomplishments and achievements?


The Learning Process
A good question to ask yourself about your co-workers is what motivates them while they are at work. Each person’s motivations are different. Their activities outside of work, their children’s interests, favorite foods, hobbies or sporting events could all be a great way to structure your next compliment or recognition to them. Adding sincerity and relevance to your next opportunity for encouragement and praise may make the difference in the rest of their day.


Improvement for the Future
Just like most things in life, planning is helpful in everything you do. Why not gather your thoughts and take an extra few minutes and script some encouragement for a family member, friend, or a co-worker?

In appreciation for taking your precious time to read my Blog, it always amazes me the wonderful and creative ways people can deliver at higher levels and make us feel so special.