Author: Scott

Hello All –

Spring 2015 seemingly took its good ‘ol time arriving this year. And I think it’s finally at the point that it should be. Personally, I find Spring to be an inspirational time of the year.

There is a line from Snow Patrol’s song, Chasing Cars, that I took a liking to in the Spring of 2014: “Show me a garden that’s bursting into life”.

We are certainly enjoying the green lawns, freshly cleaned and mulched gardens, and newly planted vegetables. It’s been a VERY busy Spring, thus far. Like the gardens, I love to watch our grandchildren, from 1 to 6 years of age. And I enjoy watching their parents navigate the challenges of career, tending to the home, and raising these very precious little people.

And for some reason, while enjoying the fresh newness of the season, birthdays and anniversaries of those who have passed, have me sitting back and remembering enjoyable moments, and wishing / hoping they are able to look down upon us now.

Here is a sampling of what has transpired this Spring. Enjoy.

Interesting piece by Vanessa Blare on LinkedIn’s Change Management Forum (5/3/2015)

On a simplistic level, she takes a quick look at “management” versus “leadership”, and we are in agreement.

I have always been comfortable with my “style”, which I feel brings out the best in those who want to contribute and grow.

https://www.linkedin.com/redirect?url=http%3A%2F%2Fentreprisenk%2Ecom%2F%3Fp%3D2987&urlhash=c15v

Alison and I visited Berlin, along with Marion and Barry G. on September 21, 2013. We hit the highlights, including a visit to remnants of the Berlin Wall, which were intentionally left standing as a reminder. In November of 2014, Germany celebrated the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall Having been there, however briefly, we felt closer to the meaning and celebration.

The following are our pictures from 2013. The artwork varied, from what we would call grafiti to works of art that capture the emotions surrounding the very existence of the wall. History….

I was solicited for input to this article by Kristen Lamoreaux, the chair of our SIM Members In Transition group. It was published in the December 21, 2012 issue.

For IT Job-Hunters, Relocation Is a Family Affair

Source: CIO

The big decision about whether to relocate for a new IT leadership job often depends on decisions made at home.

Read the complete story here:
http://www.cio.com/article/2389744/careers-staffing/for-it-job-hunters–relocation-is-a-family-affair.html

My ancient laptop and my dying desktop, both Windows XP systems were replace last week by a MacBook Pro. After a lot of research, and some measure of anxiety, Alison approved the transaction and I turned to the Apple Store in King of Prussia last Thursday.

Why? I was somewhat pleased with Windows 7 Pro on my business laptop, but tired of tolerating the heat generated from the system, the boot times, the decision on moving forward with Windows 8.1, which I’m really not thrilled with, or the future adaptation of Windows 10. And….. I am already an iPhone / iPad user, and am pleased with the experience. I am also looking forward to the longevity and resale value of the machine.

So, here goes. I am admittedly stumbling through the learning curve, but I’m building confidence and success. We’ll see…………

I was a child during the Cold War, and had nightmares for a long time regarding the U.S. relationship with the USSR. A trip to Russia was not on my bucket list, but…given the opportunity, who could pass it up?! My opinion of Russia changed as a result of our trip. I am far more educated, and appreciative, but I’m not naive.

Historically, countries in that region of the world have changed allegiances or rule many times throughout history. I was pleased when the USSR dissolved, and I sincerely wish those countries well. I also recognize that Crimea has a huge Russian population and allegiance to Russia. Should Ukraine cede control of Crimea? In my opinion, that is an domestic issue that can, hopefully, be settled peacefully.

In the meantime, I firmly believe that the international community, including Russia and the U.S. should stay out of it. Let the people choose.

 

Throughout your life or career, have you noticed that some people are just…there…and you feel better for it?

Shortly after starting a new IT leadership position, more than 30 years ago, one of my skeptical employees had a serious crash and recovery of one of her mission critical applications. I hung out with her over the next 36 hours or so, just being there and helping, if asked, and we have been very close friends since.

Attended the funeral for a valued employee’s immediate family? Visited an employee in the hospital? Offered them a ride if their car isn’t working? Give them time off when they NEED the time to address a serious personal issue, or celebrate a significant family event?

Just being there is important. It’s noticed. It’s appreciated.

In my current Project Management role, I hung out with our systems engineers and others while troubleshooting a performance issue. It went into the evening. I gathered my things and returned to say good-night and say thanks, and the reply was “Thank you. We don’t normally get PMs who are willing to hang with us.”

It was worth the investment of a few hours. I learned some additional technical information, I bonded with a new band of brothers, and maybe earned some “cred” for when I need help down the road – personally or professionally.

Today, the warriors of the Denver Broncos face those of the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XLVIII. One of the headlines reads, “Manning can cement his legacy”. Peyton Manning, at 37, is the owner of a highly respected and accomplished football career, which includes a Super Bowl victory in 2007.

At 37, and nearing the end of his storied career, Peyton is constantly being asked about his legacy. Peyton, known for his wit said, “I thought you had to be 70 to have a legacy. I’m not sure what the word even means.” Given some time to think about it, he finally responded to reporters with the following: “If I had my choice, what my legacy would be, would be that I played my butt off for every team that I ever played on, I was a really good teammate, and I did everything I could to win.”

How do you want to be remembered? What contributions did you make?

Personally, I want my legacy to reflect that I have always been a good person with respect to family, friends and community; hopefully, setting a good example for those following in my footsteps. Professionally, and in group situations, I want to be remembered for working my butt off for every team I ever played on, being a really good teammate, and doing everything I could to win.

Your “legacy” will live on in the hearts and minds of those you’ve touched in your lifetime. Thanks for the help, Peyton.

ps: The Denver Broncos lost the Super Bowl – badly. Many will continue to criticize Peyton Manning and his ability to win “the big one”, but I personally support Peyton’s character and accomplishment for getting to those important games.

On a purely business level, you probably do not need to provide a performance review for your Consultant(s), as their contract most likely protects you from suffering the consequences of an inadequate performer. The reward for a “meets” or “exceeds” performance expectations is that the Consultant is allowed to fulfill the term of the engagement, and may be invited back for another. There is also the potential for a recommendation, which is always appreciated.

I am currently in the 10th month of a Consulting engagement, and felt a slight pang as managers and their direct reports are going through the ritual of the annual reviews. Having lived in that culture for over 30 years, I found myself missing it.

This afternoon, my manager called me into his office for a chat.

• I like the way you interact with people
• All your internal clients have great things to say about you and want to work with you
• Most of all, you make me look good

Simple and to the point. I like this review process.