by JP Elliott, PhD on March 8, 2010
Why is it that since the Academy Awards began, everyone involved in the business has secretly hoped to hear those three life changing words…and the Oscar goes to?
Is it fame and fortune? Maybe for some, but I think the reason why so many young actors and actresses dream of making their acceptance speech to the Academy is not this shallow. What all young actors and actresses truly dream of is being recognized by their peers for their talent, hard work, and accomplishments.
The true power of the Oscars is not the red carpet, designer fashion, or A-lists celebrities. No, the true power is how this golden statue motivates thousands of people to give their best efforts, take risks, and push new boundaries. It also motivates the future Oscar hopefuls to raise the bar each and every year.
As I watched the Oscars last night and saw The Hurt Locker take home 6 Academy Awards and beat out the box-office juggernaught Avatar, I kept thinking why doesn’t every organization have its own yearly awards ceremony and hand out their very own Oscars?
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by JP Elliott, PhD on March 4, 2010
I have loved Netflix ever since they came on to the scene and turned the DVD business on its ear. At first glance, Netflix is one of those business ideas that is so simple and brilliant that you almost kick yourself for not thinking of it first.
And while you might believe that the secret to Netflix’s success is it’s innovative business model – its not. The real secret according to their founder and CEO, Reed Hastings, is their culture of high performance which focuses on fostering ”Freedom and Responsibility.”
Below is an amazing PowerPoint presentation that details the core values and beliefs that truly makes Netflix special. There is a lot an organization or HR pro can learn from Netflix and how they have created, articulated, and implemented a culture that delivers the goods.
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by JP Elliott, PhD on February 4, 2010
We all know the old adage “You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression,” but how many of us really take this advice to heart, especially when starting a new job. The first 90 days are critical to establishing your credibility in a new organization, but the stakes are even higher when you are the new boss.
Not only do you have to learn your way around a new company and adjust to a new role, but you also have to gain the respect of your new team. No small task. In my experience, you cannot underestimate the impact these early impressions can have on your career, your ability to lead your team, and make an long-term impact. Bottom line is people form judgments fast – your only defense is a good offense. So, the question becomes…do you have a game plan for making a great first impression?
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