| March 2011
The Enlightened Manager Newsletter
Helping executives accelerate and manage growth since 1999
"Rowing harder doesn't help a boat headed in the wrong direction" ~ Kenichi Ohmae
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In this issue:
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 1. Hope equals action at work
In these times of budget cuts, political anxiety, social unrest, and an uncertain business climate, it can be easy to succumb to despair -- to hunker down to wait for better times. But, in any given situation, we do have a choice. We can make now the time. Or, as Burmese activist, Aung San Suu Kyi, recently remarked, "Hope equals action."
This certainly applies to our professional lives. How many growth opportunities have been lost, projects failed and bad decisions accepted because no one took responsibility? And, while we might not end up being the butterfly whose flapping wings changes the whole world, we can make a difference.
Wishing you great hope and action!
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2. Earmarks: food for thought
I recently spoke to Curt Woodward, a reporter for Xconomy.com, about the potential impact of the elimination of earmarks. Consideration needs to be given to a system to replace them. Thousands of businesses, non- profits, universities and municipalities rely on this funding. And, even a cursory look reveals hundreds of meaningful projects.
Since the money for these initiatives comes from Federal agencies, politicians will probably find other ways to ensure their priorities are reflected in agency budget requests. However, small businesses in every state could suffer significant revenue loss or be forced to subcontract to larger government contractors to retain some of their work.
Clearly, the system has been abused. But, for every bridge to nowhere, there are hundreds of projects that save soldiers' lives, cure diseases and improve critical transportation infrastructure. Hopefully, these won't be left in the dust.
Read Curt's article about earmarks
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3. Need someone to talk to?
Being the executive of an organization is challenging. You're responsible for giving everyone else guidance and direction. But, who do you talk to when you want to explore the different sides of a management and business growth issue? Having someone outside your organization to confer with can really make a difference.
Since 1999, I've helped over 250 senior managers at over 70 organizations build strategies, identify tactics and solve thorny management issues. Chances are I can be of assistance. And, if not, I'll gladly refer you to someone who can. It's what I love to do. Really!
You can reach me at: 206-780-4202 PST or email or on Linkedin or click here to learn more.
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Winning and Managing Government Business (click to read more or order)
"Winning and Managing Government Business is a concise, easy-to-understand and to the point overview of securing and doing business with the federal government. It provides step-by-step instructions on approaches for penetrating government markets, how to do your prep work prior to proposal time, and then how to respond and win opportunities. It's a definite must read if you're new to the government space. It's also very handy if you're a savvy veteran as it's full of checklists, timelines and templates you can use in real world situations. I've been involved with government contracting for over 15 years and found this book to be very useful and practical."
- M. Cosgrave, VP, ManTech International
The Enlightened Manager (click to read more or order)
"Whether you are new to a management role or a 25 year management veteran, these 20 concise morsels of enlightenment are the heart of being a successful leader. Worth reading every year !!"
- Business Confluence
| Both available in paperback at www.amazon.com
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About Mike and Celerity Works
Michael Lisagor founded Celerity Works in 1999 to help government, industry and non-profit executives improve their performance and accelerate their organizational growth. He has performed over 450 organizational assessment interviews, facilitated 200+ meetings and workshops, and coached over 250 managers for 65 organizations.
Benefits and results:
- Government contractors - Win more government business
- Government agencies - Improve performance and manage program risk
- Commercial businesses - Become more efficient and accelerate growth
Consulting services:
- Action-oriented planning and retreat facilitation
- Management performance improvement coaching
- Improved decision making and focus
- Streamlined business growth planning
- Effective program risk management
Government management and risk consulting services available on GSA MOBIS schedule.
Facilitation and performance coaching services available on King County contract.
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