Lessons from the ice
I regularly send a note to the full IBM Marketing, Communications, and CSR team and agency partners. It is a ritual that allows me to connect with IBMers across the globe on a regular basis and get candid feedback. Last week, my note included lessons from an inspiring leader which I think we can all benefit from. Check out the excerpt below:
This week, I was fortunate enough to spend time in Toronto. I saw lots of clients, partners, talked to media and got to spend time with the IBM team. It was a great trip and personally very rewarding. I learned a lot about our business in Canada, got more exposure to some of the challenges and opportunities our partners face and got to see a great hockey game.
Part of the time with clients involved a visit from the President of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Brendan Shanahan. Brendan is a 3-time Olympic gold medalist and hockey legend turned businessman. Having spent most of his life as an athlete, he has developed a grit that allows him to cut through corporate static and be a great leader – which is what he talked about.
A few things I took away from the discussion:
- Allow yourself to be bothered – whatever you are trying to accomplish that day, go after it as if it is life or death.
- It is easy to have a good day. Pay attention to how someone handles a bad day. That is their true character.
- Be a well-rounded player – sometimes the team needs defense, sometimes offense – adapt to what the moment calls for.
- Find your way in difficult situations – and that might mean asking people for help when you normally would not.
Simple concepts but good ones to keep in mind.
Happy to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
J
Professional Insights Maker | International Risk Taker | Creative Thinker | Early Adopter | Car Chick | ex-ExPat
1yYears ago, at NAIAS, Brendan was with a very famous reporter from 60 Minutes. They were scheduled to film by a concept car, but another crew was already there and running a little late. I was supposed to take pictures next. But the 60 Minutes reporter was loud and angry and throwing an absolute tantrum because they were forced to wait. Brendan stood there quietly and patiently. We shared a smile; he was clearly apologetic and embarrassed by the woman’s behavior. They eventually - after maybe a 5 minute wait? - did the shoot and he was a pro. As mentioned, his true character - and hers - was on display that cold, January day in Detroit.
Software Marketing Executive | Product Marketing | Partner Marketing | 💪 I help software/SaaS companies grow faster, win more, and establish market leadership
1y"allow yourself to be bothered" ! Great advice. Thanks for sharing.
Corporate Communications | Brand & Marketing | Public Relations
1yI still remember your regular memoirs I used to receive during our tenure at Nissan…
Helping children and adults be water safe and happy and confident in the pool.
1yI enjoy getting Jonathan’s emails he always has an inspiring way of putting things and making our work feel important
CEO Agence " Third Stone from the Sun"
1yMerci beaucoup Jonathan . Really interesting to read you , a kind of fresh air 🎸