Role of the leader

• Announce strategy - reinforce basis of authority
• Build relationships - model mutual respect
• Cast vision - provide future direction
• Develop commitments - cultivate organizational buy-in

PPCO / Praise First

PPCO / Praise First is a tool to enhance convergent thinking. Use this after a brainstorming session when a number of ideas have been discussed and you are now beginning to evaluate the ones that stand out the most.

• Positives - What are the good things about this idea? What about it works, sparkles, or stands head and shoulders over other ideas? Why is it a good idea?
• Potential - Where could we go with this idea? How might it open up other opportunities? What are some ways we might be able to build on its promise?
• Concerns - What holds this idea back? What about it needs to be strengthened to be a solid or irresistable solution?
• Overcoming Concerns - How do we address concerns about the idea in order to implement it?

Three keys to success

From an executive of a well-known corporation

1. Nurture your differentiators. Know what makes you unique, and leverage it. Build on those strengths, and draw distinction from them.


2. Cultivate your networks. It is still all about whom you know, but true leadership is not about politics: it is about knowing how to find who knows what you need to know.
   
3. Take risks! Pick your favorite adage: Grow or die. Let go of the tree trunk and grab the fruit at the end of the limb. You miss 100% of the shots you never take. Regardless, it's about extending yourself in ways others will not, and finding success in the process.