Articles by Jose Ruiz

We often confuse “transformational leadership” with “change management.” They are two different things. Someone can be a good change manager, but may not be a good transformational leader. However, the greater a leader, most likely, the more transformational they are.

Conflicts should not be feared; it should be managed. It is the presence of disagreements or differences. Thus, as long as human beings are different from one another, we will always have conflicts. However, having conflicts does not mean we should be violent and loud. We can have differences peacefully through mature conflict resolutions.

To be a successful executive, managing your career well is imperative. While many executives rely on their employers to manage theirs, taking charge of your own future should be done strategically.

Listening is an effective component of leadership when it becomes a behavior that builds credibility and supports a leader’s ability to guide others into finding their answers versus providing them. The highest level of listening is achieved when it supports leadership as a relationship. When trust is supported by the follower’s perception of the leader’s ability to listen and discern prior to deciding or emitting judgments.

Great leadership entails a holistic and not a mechanistic approach. It requires a delicate balance between satisfying short-term requirements and sacrificing time and resources today for the benefit of tomorrow.

Today, in the age of the individual, you have to be your own brand” Be “the CEO of Me Inc.”

How much? There is no easy answer to this question but the best way to address it is to understand a company’s typical thought process.

A fit at all levels is not easy. Many elements that were once considered intangible are now part of a tangible evaluation process and from the standpoint of an executive it is not about right or wrong, good or bad, it is simply about fit.

The ultimate purpose is to not just focus on the finish line but also understand the best method to get there and not hope or expect but drive to achieve our career goals in the desired time.

Don’t expect the organization you work for to plan your career, establish your direction and pay for training you need to achieve your long-term goals.