Steve Broe is a leadership coach, university instructor, and author. He lives in Scottsdale with Carolyn and two children. He meditates daily, practices the clarinet, and enjoys public speaking.
8/26/2010 9:58 AMAnne Perschel wrote:
Dear Doctor:
As someone who often made the mistake of pouring too quickly, I must agree with your sound advice. Thankfully after many years, many mistakes and the hurts that went with them, I have learned the art of pouring slowly. I love the image and it will certainly help me maintain my progress on this front.
Thanks for your great observation! I believe that every relationship has a unique alchemy, just like when two chemicals meet, it takes an expert to tell what will be a volatile combination that explodes, and what will mix nicely. Anybody building relationships should pay attention to the depth of disclosure and work at matching the level of the other person. When we choose to push the relationship to a new level, and this boldness is needed at times, the decision should be a conscious risk.
I totally agree with your comments on vision. I see leaders all the time that come up with visions as an exercise versus something they are emotionally attached to. In addition, the visions are usually too wordy and don't give people anything to grab onto.
An effective vision is short, clear and understandable at all levels of an organization. Also, it should trigger emotion and something visual in nature that you can see in the future (hence, the term, vision).
When I do organizational assessments, I'll interview the executive team and ask them a lot of the same questions to see how consistent their answers are. One of the questions is, "What's the vision?"
I have yet to experience an organization where all the executives expressed the same vision. If the executive team isn't on the same page, you can imagine how confused the rest of the organization is.
8/3/2010 12:59 PMHeather Stubbsh wrote:
I forgot to say that I like your expression "to dance with the butterflies". My own expression is "The butterflies help you fly." Reply to this
8/3/2010 12:53 PMHeather Stubbs wrote:
I totally agree with everything you write here, Steve. As a theatrical performer turned public speaker, I can attest to the need for the "zing". In my "SPEAK UP!" workshops, I simply call it energy. For me, the quality and intensity of energy is the alpha and omega of a good presentation. What you say and how you say it grows out of the energy you're willing to put into it. Reply to this
8/3/2010 2:54 PM
Steve Broe wrote:
Heather, I am sure your workshops are transformational experiences! We all gain when we extend our limits of what we are willing to offer others without the fear of feeling foolish or being too outrageous. I like your comments on energy, very true observations. Reply to this
8/3/2010 12:14 PMDrJackKing wrote:
Steve,
I love your elegant expression of the journey as a "dance with the butterflies!" As I read your post, I found myself thinking of an orchestra. Each musician probably has their score memorized, but it's not the notes that matter. It's not even that they are played that matters. Instead, it's HOW they are played that gives rise to the voice - indeed, the collection of voices - that draw us closer to the message. Thank you for a fabulous post! Hugs. Reply to this
8/3/2010 2:52 PM
Steve Broe wrote:
The more I've learned, the more I've come to appreciate the gaps in my knowledge. Performing in an orchestra and a band is one of the new delights I've experienced these last few years. Yes, every person brings a unique perspective, and special contribution to our efforts. Good leaders find ways to harmonize the contributions of quite different people. We can do this in music, and in changing the world. I appreciate you Jack! Reply to this
7/26/2010 12:25 PM
Charisse Marie Colbert wrote:
Would you really consider what is happening with Lindsay Lohan a career transition? She is so out of control that hopefully this transition from having her freedom to being locked up will wake her up. Reply to this
7/26/2010 4:05 PM
Steve Broe wrote:
Of course you are right, Charisse. I mentioned Lindsay Lohan because her jail term began as I was writing this piece, and she popped into my mind. Not a typical transition for any of my readers, I hope! Reply to this
7/19/2010 3:00 PM
Lori wrote:
Steve, you have a way of making me stop and think. I am currently on a path of transition, having lost my job and now pursuing one in a totaling different field - one that I believe, if I do it well, will benefit people much more than my previous line of work. But sometimes I wonder if I should really be pursuing this... it's going to be difficult... there is so much I don't know... and I will admit, it's a little scary. Your words have helped me to re-commit myself to this challenge, because what greater satisfaction can there be in a job than having it truly benefit others? Thanks Steve. Reply to this
7/3/2010 4:37 PM
stefan petra wrote:
Your voice is your identity in sound. It is far more than just a means with which to communicate your thoughts and feelings. it is the expression of your intergrity and individuality in the world! -Stewart Pearce from his book 'The Alchemy of Voice".
Being real means just being here. Standing before people in an open, vulnerable way without roles or masks or expectations of any kind.We connect with people just as we are right now. And receive their support. Our priority is to be completely present with them, and to let whatever we say come out of that relationship.- Lee Glickstein from his book 'Be Heard Now'.
Both authors have been involved in communication for many years. Both present their own unique perspective on speaking. Both provide a road to inner balance,harmony, boost self confidence, colour and energy to self expression.
5/1/2010 4:52 PMCharisse Marie Colbert wrote:
This was an excellent post with valuable tips on how to approach networking by asking meaningful questions. I know you practice what you preach because I have received those lovely handwritten postcards from you after our meetings. Reply to this
3/13/2009 7:28 PMDaniel wrote:
It is very difficult to look within and discover that change would be for the better. Nobody likes to admit that they are not as they perceive themselves.
This is why coaching is so valuable. Even coaches need a coach. I just got one who will help me. I am curious what I will discover, but I am also eager to make the changes that will make me a better person, and those around me better because of it. Reply to this
3/11/2009 4:06 PMCharisse Marie Colbert wrote:
kerfuffle I love the word. When you say it aloud it makes you feel the meaning. I visualize the White Rabbit from Alice in Wonderland being kerfuffled. I am certain you remained calm during the juggling of your schedule. Reply to this
2/24/2009 5:57 PMRuss wrote:
Outstanding blog. Teaching allows me a way of expressing myself that no other outlet allows. I can express, reflect, internalize, reflect, and then express again. Students bring me something that no other interaction allows. It brings me ideas, reactions, and the ability to have a lasting impact beyond my small world. Russ Reply to this
1/8/2009 8:28 AMRuss wrote:
Leaders need to teach their peers and staff to accept a “no”. I find that some are concerned that saying no represents themselves as repressive. Their approach then becomes to discuss an issue at length, and convince and justify. There is value to that approach for many decisions, but what may happen is people become trained to debate and question everything. Another approach is to sometimes just say no, and suggest that they can discuss it in the future. Then, when the results of that decision are apparent, dialog with others about why you made that “no” choice. People will recognize that you can be trusted to make “no” decisions, and that sometimes “no” is enough. Reply to this
1/8/2009 8:19 AMRuss wrote:
I had a similar experience with Apple. When I first called them, it was cool, they were confident, and they took a new age approach. When I suggested gently that a Mac was much more expensive than a PC (I had a bit of sticker shock), the cool person suggested I talk with Dell again. It may be that we are not their customer, and I somewhat admire them for knowing what they want, clearly identifying their brand with a buyer, and sticking to their message. However, it hurts their brand for you and I to be blogging about our experience. Don’t fret, have your son buy one and you can use it. Liam got one for Christmas, and it is very cool. Maybe too cool for me. Reply to this
1/7/2009 7:55 PMCharisse Marie Colbert wrote:
Steve Thank you for the lovely comments. What an inspiring idea to notice beauty, love and leadership each day. Keep up the good intentions. Charisse Reply to this
12/22/2008 8:19 PMPatricia L Brooks wrote:
Great writing - yes, this is a problem. We cannot always pick our guests or relatives, just our friends - thanks for your long term friendship. I sometimes miss the TM meetings, but am involved with my writing and publishing groups and have ample opportunity to speak with my business. My best to you in 2009 - Happy New Year - Patricia Reply to this
Love your blog - I will subscribe to your blog - very inspirational!
Reply to this
Dear Doctor:
As someone who often made the mistake of pouring too quickly, I must agree with your sound advice. Thankfully after many years, many mistakes and the hurts that went with them, I have learned the art of pouring slowly. I love the image and it will certainly help me maintain my progress on this front.
Cheers to a slow drink.
Reply to this
Hi Anne,
Thanks for your great observation! I believe that every relationship has a unique alchemy, just like when two chemicals meet, it takes an expert to tell what will be a volatile combination that explodes, and what will mix nicely. Anybody building relationships should pay attention to the depth of disclosure and work at matching the level of the other person. When we choose to push the relationship to a new level, and this boldness is needed at times, the decision should be a conscious risk.
I appreciate your friendship.
SB
Reply to this
Steve,
I totally agree with your comments on vision. I see leaders all the time that come up with visions as an exercise versus something they are emotionally attached to. In addition, the visions are usually too wordy and don't give people anything to grab onto.
An effective vision is short, clear and understandable at all levels of an organization. Also, it should trigger emotion and something visual in nature that you can see in the future (hence, the term, vision).
When I do organizational assessments, I'll interview the executive team and ask them a lot of the same questions to see how consistent their answers are. One of the questions is, "What's the vision?"
I have yet to experience an organization where all the executives expressed the same vision. If the executive team isn't on the same page, you can imagine how confused the rest of the organization is.
Keep up the thought provoking posts!
Derrick Strand
Reply to this
I forgot to say that I like your expression "to dance with the butterflies". My own expression is "The butterflies help you fly."
Reply to this
I totally agree with everything you write here, Steve. As a theatrical performer turned public speaker, I can attest to the need for the "zing". In my "SPEAK UP!" workshops, I simply call it energy. For me, the quality and intensity of energy is the alpha and omega of a good presentation. What you say and how you say it grows out of the energy you're willing to put into it.
Reply to this
Heather, I am sure your workshops are transformational experiences! We all gain when we extend our limits of what we are willing to offer others without the fear of feeling foolish or being too outrageous. I like your comments on energy, very true observations.
Reply to this
Steve,
I love your elegant expression of the journey as a "dance with the butterflies!" As I read your post, I found myself thinking of an orchestra. Each musician probably has their score memorized, but it's not the notes that matter. It's not even that they are played that matters. Instead, it's HOW they are played that gives rise to the voice - indeed, the collection of voices - that draw us closer to the message. Thank you for a fabulous post! Hugs.
Reply to this
The more I've learned, the more I've come to appreciate the gaps in my knowledge. Performing in an orchestra and a band is one of the new delights I've experienced these last few years. Yes, every person brings a unique perspective, and special contribution to our efforts. Good leaders find ways to harmonize the contributions of quite different people. We can do this in music, and in changing the world. I appreciate you Jack!
Reply to this
Would you really consider what is happening with Lindsay Lohan a career transition? She is so out of control that hopefully this transition from having her freedom to being locked up will wake her up.
Reply to this
Of course you are right, Charisse. I mentioned Lindsay Lohan because her jail term began as I was writing this piece, and she popped into my mind. Not a typical transition for any of my readers, I hope!
Reply to this
Steve, you have a way of making me stop and think. I am currently on a path of transition, having lost my job and now pursuing one in a totaling different field - one that I believe, if I do it well, will benefit people much more than my previous line of work. But sometimes I wonder if I should really be pursuing this... it's going to be difficult... there is so much I don't know... and I will admit, it's a little scary. Your words have helped me to re-commit myself to this challenge, because what greater satisfaction can there be in a job than having it truly benefit others? Thanks Steve.
Reply to this
Your voice is your identity in sound. It is far more than just a means with which to communicate your thoughts and feelings. it is the expression of your intergrity and individuality in the world! -Stewart Pearce from his book 'The Alchemy of Voice".
Being real means just being here. Standing before people in an open, vulnerable way without roles or masks or expectations of any kind.We connect with people just as we are right now. And receive their support. Our priority is to be completely present with them, and to let whatever we say come out of that relationship.- Lee Glickstein from his book 'Be Heard Now'.
Both authors have been involved in communication for many years. Both present their own unique perspective on speaking. Both provide a road to inner balance,harmony, boost self confidence, colour and energy to self expression.
Speak well.
Always.
Stefan Petra
Reply to this
This was an excellent post with valuable tips on how to approach networking by asking meaningful questions. I know you practice what you preach because I have received those lovely handwritten postcards from you after our meetings.
Reply to this
It is very difficult to look within and discover that change would be for the better. Nobody likes to admit that they are not as they perceive themselves.
This is why coaching is so valuable. Even coaches need a coach. I just got one who will help me. I am curious what I will discover, but I am also eager to make the changes that will make me a better person, and those around me better because of it.
Reply to this
The highest result of education is tolerance.
Helen Keller
Reply to this
kerfuffle
I love the word. When you say it aloud it makes you feel the meaning. I visualize the White Rabbit from Alice in Wonderland being kerfuffled. I am certain you remained calm during the juggling of your schedule.
Reply to this
Outstanding blog. Teaching allows me a way of expressing myself that no other outlet allows. I can express, reflect, internalize, reflect, and then express again. Students bring me something that no other interaction allows. It brings me ideas, reactions, and the ability to have a lasting impact beyond my small world. Russ
Reply to this
Love the McCartney pic, JeanRenee!
Reply to this
Leaders need to teach their peers and staff to accept a “no”. I find that some are concerned that saying no represents themselves as repressive. Their approach then becomes to discuss an issue at length, and convince and justify. There is value to that approach for many decisions, but what may happen is people become trained to debate and question everything. Another approach is to sometimes just say no, and suggest that they can discuss it in the future. Then, when the results of that decision are apparent, dialog with others about why you made that “no” choice. People will recognize that you can be trusted to make “no” decisions, and that sometimes “no” is enough.
Reply to this
I had a similar experience with Apple. When I first called them, it was cool, they were confident, and they took a new age approach. When I suggested gently that a Mac was much more expensive than a PC (I had a bit of sticker shock), the cool person suggested I talk with Dell again. It may be that we are not their customer, and I somewhat admire them for knowing what they want, clearly identifying their brand with a buyer, and sticking to their message. However, it hurts their brand for you and I to be blogging about our experience. Don’t fret, have your son buy one and you can use it. Liam got one for Christmas, and it is very cool. Maybe too cool for me.
Reply to this
Steve
Thank you for the lovely comments. What an inspiring idea to notice beauty, love and leadership each day. Keep up the good intentions.
Charisse
Reply to this
Great writing - yes, this is a problem. We cannot always pick our guests or relatives, just our friends - thanks for your long term friendship. I sometimes miss the TM meetings, but am involved with my writing and publishing groups and have ample opportunity to speak with my business. My best to you in 2009 - Happy New Year - Patricia
Reply to this