Get Motivated!

View of the stage in the Greensboro Coliseum from where we were sitting

On Wednesdaytwo co-workers and I went to the Get Motivated Seminars in Greensboro NC. The keynote speakers were Rudy Giuliani, Colin Powell, Zig Ziglar, Robert Schuller, Sully the pilot of the Miracle on the Hudson flight....and many others.

It was a great day with great advice from well experienced leaders in the corporate world.

Colin Powell was my favorite speaker-he spoke on the characteristics of a good leader. He shared great stories and insight from behind the scenes moments as Secretary of State. I'am happy to share some of the things he spoke about.

Here's some of my notes:

• A good leader invest into their followers
• Award efforts made- even if they aren't successful.
• Lead by example.
• Validate
• Be hard headed but soft hearted.
• Build trust, trust, trust- a good leader has the respect and trust of his followers/employees/family etc, etc.
• Don't be afraid to cut losses.

Secretary Powell spoke about Ronald Reagan being so easy to follow because he was resolved to abolish communism and to unite Europe. President Reagan believed with all his heart that communism was an evil empire that needed to be destroyed. Powell said that because of the conviction of Reagans beliefs that he would have followed him into any battle to destroy communism....the passion of the mission in Reagans heart was tangible.

The point of the story was that you have to lead by example- be transparent in your mission- have conviction (even in sales or marketing) BELIEVE IN THE GOAL and people will follow and pitch in to assist. It works in politics, it works at home- it works at the office!