Leadership Blog: Professional Development

High performers almost always credit good mentors for their development and success. I have had many mentors who have influenced me over the years. While I learned a lot from my supervisors, some of my best mentors were not my bosses.

So, how are you? Really, how are you? The year started out great; for many the best year ever. Then a global pandemic and racial unrest in our nation impacted all of us.

In every organization there are three types of performers: low, medium and high. Obviously, as leaders, we naturally want more high performers than low or even medium.

Every month, I get to personally welcome a group of new employees and see their enthusiasm as they embark on their career here at Marco. Each time I am reminded of their expectations and our role as leaders to keep building on that momentum.

Hiring someone better than yourself is a good leadership strategy, and it naturally elevates the entire team. The recent hire of our new president, Doug Albregts, is a good example.

There are people who walk into a room and are naturally recognized as leaders. They seem to gain followers without even trying. They have a presence about them. Who do you know like that? Is it you?

As CEO, I often get asked, “What keeps you up at night?” It is a good question to ask ourselves, especially as leaders. My answer most of the time is: not much. Does that surprise you? The reason is that I have peace of mind.

There’s a move you can make to better position your personal image and brand. No matter your age or title, you can step up your dress. Most people do this pretty well, but there are a lot that don’t and may not even realize it. It’s a sensitive topic that doesn’t get talked about…

As we look to the New Year, we spend a lot of time talking strategy and what’s next. But it’s also important to reflect on where we’ve been and celebrate the wins.

During a big celebration at our family cabin over the Fourth of July, we all loaded into the pontoon for a ride. Soon after, a sheriff approached our boat, which typically isn’t viewed as fun. But this was a little bit different.