Essays on creative leadership,
culture, and the human side of work.
Published weekly, with an original illustration. Two series: Becoming and Advisory Notes.
Our personal stories are our source of power as creative professionals. I’ve drawn and told stories for as long as I can remember. When I was little I knew that I’d have to make my way in the world with my talent. But how? I had no idea. Reflect on it for a minute: How…
“You’re late.” It hits me like a like a boxer’s blow. I’m shaken now, and he hits me again: “I can’t believe it. You’re fifteen minutes late!” I manage to stammer out, “I’m sorry, I thought our meeting was at 11:15. Was it at 11?” I’m desperate for this job… Ignoring me, and now with…
Late to the office. The fantasy continues. “Brie,” says Tommy, entering the room. “You okay? I know it’s tense. Are you sleeping…?” “I’m fine.” Clutching her tea, Brie reflects on her morning…. Discomfort I awoke remembering only touches of the dreams. Still disturbing, though I don’t know why. A moment, then it came back to…
“Ooooooh.” The crowd breathes in unison as they enter the station deep underground. It’s the first chance to see GM’s magic train in action. The fantasy continues… “Whoosh,” as the Vactrain leaves the station on another demo run full of happy GM workers and their families. Celebration GM’s chair, Bill Smith, wears a smile that…
“Security!” They must have used a ram to hit the door. Bam. Down it went. “We are under contract with Homeland. Freeze! Put your hands on your head.” Waving some official-looking documents, the leader and what looked like 10 soldiers – all in protective gear with the Homeland logo on their white chest plates –…
“Did you really think you were creating lies?” The fantasy continues… Tommy thought about it. “No, I wasn’t that self-aware.” Tommy – mostly out of daily Overture activity now, but still engaged in issues regarding consensus within the co-op – reflected on the question. He answered Brie: “We were on fire with the power of it…
I’ve always believed that compelling case studies are one of the keys to negotiation success. Great case studies give prospects a reason to consider working with you. And without consideration you’ll never get to the bargaining table. Thanks to Bryan Schaeffer for asking me to write a case study for him that dramatized his work. Thanks also…