Ethics: How Do You Know?

"If you lend someone $20, and never see that person again; it was probably worth it."

Unknown

Ethics or lack thereof.

One's success will, to a large degree, depend upon how quickly they can determine who to trust and who to stay away from and as anyone over the age of 15 can attest, that's not always easy to do.

Employees, supervisors, investors, investment options; how do you sort it all out? What do you look for when deciding who you will and will not trust?

Crisis Management: Moving On

"The little that is completed, vanishes from the sight of one who looks forward to what is still to do."

Johan Wolfgang von Goethe
18th Century German Writer

There are many quotes about the importance of putting aside failure and looking ahead, this among them. The common theme is move on with some, as this one does, suggesting that is even more important in difficult times.

More important, tougher to do but essential.

We are all entitled to our "woe is me" time but as mountain climber Julie said, the choice is to move on or sit there in the road feeling sorry for yourself until you die.

What happens when an entire organization is "sitting in the road"? Who's job is it to urge everyone on?

Communication: The Importance of Writing

"Put it before them briefly so they will read it, clearly so they will appreciate it, picturesquely so they will remember it, and above all, accurately so they will be guided by its light."

Joesph Pulitzer

Pulitzer was no doubt talking about literature but these recommendations apply to business writing as well.

We don't need Pulitzer Prize level writing in business but we do need people who can put clear, concise sentences down on a page.

What writing skills grade would you give to those you work with including those above you, your peers and subordinates? If low, do you see it as a problem?

Negotiation: Can There Be Two "Winners"?

"He who has learned to disagree without being disagreeable has discovered the most valuable secret of a diplomat."

Joseph Joubert
18th Century French Moralist

"In business, you don't get what you deserve, you get what you negotiate."

Chester L. Karrass
Author, Consultant on Negotiation Skills

Everything in business is about negotiation; with your customers, employees, even with yourself.

How much time have you thought about your ability to negotiate? For you is it win/lose, win/win or lose/win when it comes to how you deal with people in your professional life?

Thank You!

"Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others."

Cicero
Roman Statesman

The "mothership" for gratitude includes such things as appreciation, being thankful and giving recognition to those who help you achieve your personal and professional goals.

I thank all of you who have participated and followed Business Wisdom since its inception just a few short months ago and hope to see you with us in the time ahead.

Happy Holidays to you all and I wish you a much better 2009!