Free articles for Job Seekers

One of the principles on which Connections Planet has been founded is service to the community. With that goal in mind, we have searched for words of wisdom from noted authorities in their fields. Our emphasis here is to help those who have joind the ranks of those "between jobs".

It is our hope that by presenting the thoughts from those people here, we can help those who are going through a rough time in their life.

Conformity and status quo are the first steps down the staircase of business ineffectiveness. People become comfortable doing the same things the same way, copying everyone else. The innovative leader is always looking for ways to improve what is being done, never satisfied with just being good. In today's chaotic business environment, good is no longer good enough.

The innovative leader understands progress depends on change and change is risky. The leader creates an environment allowing people freedom to experiment and take risks without fear of reprisal. The innovative leader provides support and encouragement to his or her people even if a person fails in trying to do something new.

Creating an open and supportive environment is important if you want your people to become innovative. One way to make yourself approachable is to talk openly about your own mistakes and your limitations. Once viewed as taboo and poor leadership, but now is more acceptable and no longer thought of as a sign of weakness. In fact, many people find it a sign of strength and authenticity, a way to gain respect and trust from your people. After all, who doesn't make mistakes-it's only human.

The old saying goes, "Actions speak louder than words." This saying is more true today than ever before. Change begins at the front office, the top floor, the corporate boardroom. Workers are not fooled by posters, slogans, and speeches such as, "People are our most important asset" or Quality comes first." Management's actions show the people in the organization what is truly important. You must walk the talk.

In this high-tech, non-stop world, meetings and conferences become vampires slowly draining the life out of the business. Change occurs so rapidly that by the time a problem is brought to a staff meeting, it's too late. Both solutions to problems and innovative ideas are found on the front line with the workers. Leaders must get out of the office and spend time talking to workers and customers in and about the business.

Horst Shultze, the CEO of Ritz-Carlton Hotels delivered one of the most inspiring and motivating talks ever heard. The vision for his company unfolded like an artist painting a canvas. He spoke of his dream of creating, not just good hotels, but the best hotel chain in the world. He recounted how his workers told him what the hotel industry needed, what was important, and how to do it. The audience seated in the auditorium became part of the transformation process. They felt the workers' pride and enthusiasm. They could see the difference this leader brought to his organization.