Be strong on social media

Recently, I've led or participated in a few threads whose subjects are rather controversial.

I have been shocked at the taunts, lack of civility, meanness and cruelty that occurs when those on the thread think you're WRONG. There is no middle ground with some of these "haters."  But, you must be strong, maintain your position and if it gets too snarky, just leave it alone. It just isn't worth it.

I read somewhere of a guy who thinks folks who stay on Facebook all day trolling and commenting, are boring and don't have great lives.  When I was at the other end of that venom, I thought of his statement.

When I was under siege, I maintained my cool, stayed strong to my position and withstood the onslaught.

But, when I dip my toe in this territory again, I will think long and hard about whether it's worth it to engage.

Leverage your power

I've been banking at Chase since forever.  So, I have established credibility.  But, last week, an employee didn't provide a document for me.

I went into complaint mode, threatened to pull every cent and just flexed my muscles.

I contacted the former manager whose excellent customer service convinced me to bank there and add $$$ and accounts there.

She took care of the problem.  Not only did she get on this errant employee with no customer service skills, but she came by the bank and provided the service.

Had she not intervened, I'd have changed banks.

My applause to Sheena Bankston who is the quintessential example of a professional par excellence who understands the value of going beyond -- and then beyond -- the call of duty to be an example of and to exhibit awesome customer service.

Just say no - You're worth it

I was invited to a relative by marriage's house for Thanksgiving.  Last year, it was a nightmare because one her brothers is a former resident of the penitentiary system -- as in a former prisoner.  I had to be careful what I said and gentle about my questions until I didn't have a great time.  Plus, he was in for a serious crime so I was a little queasy.

I know you're supposed to be charitable around the holidays but, this year, I reflected on last year and decided it was an opportunity for ME time so I decided to "JUST SAY NO."

After all, I believe I'm worth it.  Instead, I spent the day with good friends and had a wonderful, marvelous time.  So, sometimes, being around relatives is not always the answer.

Flying in to Support a friend

Went to Dallas over the weekend for a 60th birthday party a friend hosted. It was a costly trip when considering the airfare, hotel, gift, dress, baggage and transportation costs.  Plus, I got a nasty cold.  But, was it worth it?  This friend has sent me so many clients over the years that I felt it important to be there for her.  So, it was another investment opportunity that outweighed the costs.

Pull the talents of your team

I oversee a team of about 16 women with varying talents.  However, as a person used to working alone, I tend to always rely on myself.  That is not a good leadership quality but I'm trying to adjust and use them.

Recently, I needed some creative flourishes on a document.  I went into graphic arts web sites to pull it together.

Then, it occurred to me!  I have a team!

I put the word out and two of the most talented set to the task.  The end result was one of the most graphically dynamic presentations I've ever seen.

Pulling from the talents of your team yield eye-poping results and provides a leadership lesson:  the importance of delegating.

It pays off in the long run

I hosted a great dinner party on my lawn on Sunday.  It was table for 25 and everyone -- but two invitees - showed up.  The conversation was awesome, the networking was fabulous and the overall event benefited me. The backdrop of the creek set against trees in my yard was perfect. There were toasts, testimonials about me and general good feeling.  The investment in food, decor, rented chairs/tables, work on the house, renting a driver to pick up the equipment -- was well worth it.  It was great to see everyone having a good time.  And, the kudos are coming in fast and furiously.  I don't know if it will reap any dividends, but it will pay off in the long run.

The extra touch - So Important

A former client recently wrote a book and I was out of town and couldn't attend the gala book signing.  Last weekend, I learned she was signing at a venue that was way -- far away.   So, I jumped in the car and made the long ride.  She was so glad to see me and was so gracious in introducing me and complimenting me.  I got my book, with a gracious message from her.  More than that, I put in the extra touch and extra effort that is so endearing.  That was worth the ride.