3 Keys To Success

Surveys of major corporative executives and business icons revealed three major keys to business success.

Ever known anyone who was absolutely brilliant but spoke in technical terms so far above most of the audience that they might as well have been speaking Greek? Speaking in insider acronyms or industry specific jargon is only effective with a very select audience. Everyone else mentally checks out within the first five minutes. The easy assumption seems to be that because the speaker knows the terminology, everyone should.

Bill Gates of Microsoft and Steve Jobs of Apple are both incredibly bright men and very technology savvy; however, their presentation style varies radically. One of the things Toastmasters teaches and every successful presenter knows is the importance of connecting with your audience. Effective communication is not optional. You may have the best book, the best web site, the best scientific proof; however, if you can not communicate it to audience in a language they understand and relate to, you have nothing more than a pretty document. Information only becomes valuable when it reaches out beyond the originator. Society receives no benefit from a closet report.

The first key to success is valuable information communicated effectively.

Problems exist everywhere. Personal problems, business problems, and social problems permeate our lives. Having the ability to solve problems is a tremendous asset. Solving problems in a cost effective manner is an even bigger asset. Add on solving problems while increasing morale and reducing employee turnover and you qualify for the executive washroom benefits package. Major executives must possess the ability to solve problems. The more “buy in” they receive from employees at all levels coupled with increases to the bottom line, the higher the bonus check.

If the company profits are to soar, you not only need the best pilot at the controls but also the right people in the right seats on the plane. Planes only fly effectively with the best people in the control tower and the right people on the ground crew. No major corporation ever soars effectively without a team effort. Problems will occur. It may be a lightening storm such as the economy tanking or ice on the wings such as a change in consumer demand for the products or an earthquake destroying the landing strip such as a union strike. Problems occur. The more effectively and swiftly these problems are solved, the more valuable the problem solver.

The second key to success is swiftly and effectively solving problems.

Ever see an employee evaluation which stated “does not work and play well with others.” Actually that phrase may have appeared on a kindergarten report card. Some never managed to acquire that attribute. In the problem solving section we described the importance of team work. Team work is not only the responsibility of the team leader, but also every member of the team. A wonderful team can easily come apart at the seams with one itchy, nit picky red ant. Working and playing well with others means everyone, just a few or when convenient. That attribute is extremely important for the team leader. The old expression about herding cats or organizing butterflies to fly in formation has direct impact on the team leader. A disorganized, dictatorial or micro manager team leader will not inspire his group to cooperate and play well together. Michael Jordan is a world acclaimed basketball player but Michael alone would not make an effective team. He frequently passed the ball to other players; he knew how to work and play well with others.

The third key to success is working and playing well with others.

Master the art and skill of effective communication, problem solving and team work and you will absolutely prosper in business and in life.

For specific tips and techniques for effective communication, problem solving and team coordination, join me at www.Elaine4Success.com.