Disqus - Latest Comments for rick

Re: Agreeing Machines Vs Thinking Machines

rick — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 11:07:39 -0000

We are so influenced by polls, what is in the popular media and what our friends are saying that I cannot disagree with you. The scary thing is that it is too often the case with our political leadership.
You get a bit of independent thinking at times like now in the U.S. when everyone is running for office. Even now, however it is not unusual for a candidate to modify a position on the fly if there is a negative reaction to it.
At least that is what I think.

Re: The George Cross Island

rick — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 10:08:05 -0000

So this is where U.K. folks go to get away from winter's chill. In the U.S. we tend to go to Mexico. I was just in Puerto Vallarta for a few day.
Definitely use the camera. The photos last longer than your mind and are easier to share. No need to snap at everything in sight, however. That is when someone becomes "that Guy"

Re: The one and only.

rick — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:23:27 -0000

I agree. There is stupid. There is careless. There is this which goes way beyond both.

I like the new look. sweet.

Re: It Might Be Time

rick — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 11:16:26 -0000

Double chin? Just another reason to grow a beard. You probably thought I did as a reflection of my manly man, anti-corporate image.
Great new home for all that is Frank. Do you expect the tone of the posts to change? I hope not.

Re: A Toothbrush That’s Like Getting Licked By a Cat

rick — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 11:18:28 -0000

I have two female cats at home if you want to do a blind comparison.

Re: No Bull, That Double Chin’s Gotta Go

rick — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 08:14:35 -0000

Did you see the movie "Wild Hogs"? Generally not funny though I liked the slap the bull scene. Would you do that for me when you are in Spain?
You will be so fast by then it should be a piece of cake. If not,scars are very manly.

Re: Sweltering in the NYC Subway

rick — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 14:22:24 -0000

I came home on Wednesday after an 18 hour day and 4 planes to a house with no working airconditioning. Seventh level of hell. No wonder people in the south used to be slow. Three cheers for Willis Carrier!

Re: Moving to the Top of Google

rick — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 22:24:20 -0000

There is no bad publicity. Someone said that though I am too lazy to Google the quote to find out.

Re: Moving to the Top of Google

rick — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 22:26:03 -0000

OK. I got motivated. Full quote and author.

There is no such thing as bad publicity except your own obituary.
Brendan Behan

Re: Hey, Baby

rick — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 10:52:30 -0000

I would have been dazzeled to see Penny because she was HOT. It is odd to see famous, or at least publically known, people in ordinary life settings. One forgets they have a life outside of the characters they portray or outside of being stars.
I have alsways wanted to interact with famous people in a normal setting.

BTW, great movie

Re: Not Strange At All

rick — Sat, 11 Aug 2007 23:26:10 -0000

I like it. How did you come across this?

Re: 10 Ways That Jason Bourne Kicks Chuck Norris’s Ass

rick — Sun, 12 Aug 2007 23:01:19 -0000

Too funny. I saw an interview with Damon in the paper part of which compared Bourne and James Bond. I'll see if I can find it for you.

Re: I’m Called My First Racial Slur Since I Was a Kid

rick — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 11:58:33 -0000

I had no idea what your youth was like. What you have become is even more amazing given that environment.

Re: A Thousand Words

rick — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 13:58:02 -0000

I have not been in the mountains for 2 years now and I notice it in a number of subtle ways. Fantastic picture.

Teabeer. The next yuppie beverage. Hard lemonaide already exists. Why not teabeer?

Re: World’s Hottest Wings

rick — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 09:37:17 -0000

I love super hot once in awhile. Best wings in Chicago can be found at Buffallo Jo'es which has 3 store in the Evanston are. I order the spicy but have not tried the "suicide". Now I am inspired.

Re: The Other Shoe Dropped

rick — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 08:54:32 -0000

I hate when these kind of things happen. It can ruin my mood for days.

Not that this would help me but it may you. Successful business, great family,good friends, lots of talent and energy. Lots of people would kill to be Frank.

Have a better day buddy.

Re: The Other Shoe Dropped

rick — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 09:45:09 -0000

I hate when things like that happen. It can ruin my mood for a long time.

Perspective rarely works on me but it might with you so here goes.

Wildly successful business, family going great, talented, creative, connected, lots of friends (in-person and virtual),witty and with substantial dreams. It is good to be Frank.

Re: Making the Cutout

rick — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 15:05:58 -0000

Sounds like there should be a New Year's Eve party in Bill's new office.

Re: The Happening in Center City

rick — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 18:04:25 -0000

Everything seems to happen in Philly. When they film in Chicago, as they did with the upcoming Batman movie, they block the areas off so that there is no way to get as close as you did.

Re: I’ll Never Make It as a Driving Instructor : Frank

rick — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 15:54:24 -0000

Being the "calm" one in my family I taught our son to drive. I put in 97% of the 50 hours. It was not easy and there were many temper tantrums-- split 50/50 between me and him.

Since it does seem easy on the surface, teenagers boys in particular, assume they know more than they do. I saw it as my responsibility to make sure he did not kill or injure innocents, him or me. Therefore, I considered the the words "Do it this this way because I said so" to be absolutely fair if not essential.

Bill, aren't your kids younger? Just wait and see if you can emulate Yoda when it's your turn.

Re: M. Night and Me

rick — Fri, 31 Aug 2007 12:55:15 -0000

Did you converse with M?

Re: Matt’s Going to Performance Driving School

rick — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 17:41:25 -0000

My son just scraped the side of my car doing nothing more than putting it in the garage. Based on past experience this little error will cost close to a grand. Whatever the price of this school it is worth it.

Re: The End of School’s Out for Summer

rick — Mon, 03 Sep 2007 23:48:23 -0000

I am with you Frank. I would love to go back to college. Now that I don't have to worry about selecting classes that might help me get a job, there is so much I would love to explore.

Re: 1,460 Days

rick — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 08:43:52 -0000

A blink is right. The time seems to fly by. We are down to the 730 day mark and a little uncomfortable with how life will be once our boy is away at school.

Re: Bike Philly, PodCamp and a Quick Weekend

rick — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 12:08:13 -0000

Charlie's shirtis great. I need more colorful bike shirts.

I should have made a 48Facets shirt for my ride next week. That would have been my quickest way to more readers.

Re: Bike Philly, PodCamp and a Quick Weekend

rick — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 13:36:06 -0000

I would love to do the RAGBRAI one year but how do all theses people ride 80-100 miles every day for several days. I am tired just thinking about it.

Re: Go Tonight or Take the 5:15?

rick — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 22:24:18 -0000

As much as I hate to travel on Sunday I would have done the same. Let me know how great you were after its over.

Re: Don’t Tase Me, Bro

rick — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 13:46:39 -0000

Wow, what incredible dialogue... and no one got hurt in the process. So this is why the internet and blogging were invented.

Re: Gardenia: My New Favorite Restaurant

rick — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 00:36:32 -0000

Just another reason for me to find time to come to Philly.

Re: Can I Be a Crabby Old Man for a Moment?

rick — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 21:36:48 -0000

pure travel hell. What a way to start a week. Feel sorry for you Frank.

Time to buy the corporate jet.

And what's the etiquette when someone puts their seat all the way back? Is it OK to ask them to put it up a bit?

Re: Camera Phone Changes How I Do Things

rick — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 09:58:29 -0000

Great idea. I forget my parking spot at airports all the freakin'time.

I am making a new New Year's resolution (Jewish ny,I am not late/early) to think of ways to use technology to make life easier.

Hope the trip back from Denver is better than the one out.

Re: Camera Phone Changes How I Do Things

rick — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 12:24:19 -0000

Great idea. I frequently forget where I park at O'Hare and I am there frequently.

I resolve to focus on ways that I can use technology to make life easier. Given that the new year just started this is timely.

Re: Everyone Can Use an Extra Five Inches

rick — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:50:49 -0000

When you meet strangers on a plane there are actually strange.

Now I know why executives value the corporate jet so much. Can you imagine a CEO who needs to make a last minute trip, no first class available and ends up in either 20F or 10E? Just the thought of that makes me smile.

Re: Everyone Can Use an Extra Five Inches

rick — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:26:21 -0000

Someone should do a simple poll. Do you have a good life? I would be interested in the results.

Another poll might be:
Have you ever used the word "Gadzooks" in communications with another human being--as opposed to a cartoon character?

Look forward to seeing the good life guy in a few days. very cool.

Re: Everyone Can Use an Extra Five Inches

rick — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 17:47:38 -0000

btw is the title a phallic reference? If so it took 5 readings to set in. If not, never mind...

Re: Scratching My Head about Vandalism

rick — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 08:34:38 -0000

I'll be the first to say it. I bet you were keyed up when you saw the scratches. Sorry for the bad pun on something that was senseless and will be expensive.

I hate senseless destruction of all types. I feel your pain and anger.

Re: Bring on the Global Warming, Baby

rick — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 13:29:51 -0000

Just wait until you are taking Snickers for a morning swim because both ice caps have melted and Philly becomes ocean front property.

Re: Last Second Victory

rick — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 08:46:53 -0000

That is very exciting and it was great for both you and Steve that you were there to see it. Too many moments like this are missed by parents rather than shared.

Re: You Can’t Tase This

rick — Sun, 14 Oct 2007 18:53:48 -0000

This reminds me of the old joke which I will not get exactly right but goes something like:

The definition of comedy is when someone slips on a banana peel.
The definition of tragedy is when it happens to me.

Re: Three Cranky Frankie Moments in One Day

rick — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 13:26:27 -0000

As long as you do not go postal, all will become good again my friend.

An orange jump suit is not your style.

Re: I’m Making Utteringz

rick — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 23:22:27 -0000

I am lucky to have you to lead me to the next great thing. Otherwise all this would be happening and I would be none the wiser.

Re: I’m Making Utteringz

rick — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 23:26:50 -0000

I should have listened first. This IS cool.
Meeting people on the internet too often is only words. Having a face and a voice to match greatly enhances my experience. More senses get used. Of course this is from someone who still prefers a call to an email.

Re: 48Facets is One Year Old

rick — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 09:24:17 -0000

Pax, you are right. I knew I was beyond infancy and the toddler stage. Somewhere around fifth grade feels right. Of course that means that by next year I am in college. A lot of growth coming in the next 12 months.

Re: People Can Be Disappointing

rick — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 11:01:37 -0000

I share your pain. Not enough people have pride in their work or if they do their standards are well below mine.

To pick up on one of your lines you said, "I look like Ming the Merciless". That puts the Minging on you. Don't you mean that they thought of you as Ming? Unless you hooked them up to some big machine spewing static electricity...then it was you.

Re: People Can Be Disappointing

rick — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 18:24:28 -0000

JT's comment goes for my business as well. Yet I was taking to a senior person who was offering advice that I might be more successful by leveraging more even to people less than fully qualified and sending "good enough" work to clients.

I think not.

Re: Favorite Foto Friday: The Temple Edition

rick — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 09:07:43 -0000

Wow. Great photo. So now professional photographer is on the resume as well? Fantastic!

Re: Thinking About Thankfulness

rick — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 20:06:56 -0000

Amen to that brother. I am glad I read this now. I am having dark thoughts as I sit in the Weschester Co. airport for the 6th hour hoping I get home at 1 in the morning because the alternative is to sleep here tonight.
I too have much to be thankful for. As a start. Here is to good friends and fellowship.

BTW is this about our girl? If not? Call me if you get a chance. Would be good to hear your voice.

Re: Thinking About Thankfulness

rick — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 11:50:07 -0000

Got home around 1 am. Woke up to 10 urgent emails. It is a wonderful life...just not all days

Re: Mies Van Der Rohe is my Hero

rick — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 11:50:17 -0000

I was going to be clever and submit nothing as the ultimate lee is mo. However, the software has no sense of humor or existential sensibilitity. It repeatedly gave me an error message and suggested that I leave a comment.

I guess there is still some work to be done on artificial intelligence...though no more than needs to be done on human intelligence.

Re: Mies Van Der Rohe is my Hero

rick — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 11:52:36 -0000

Ok, how red is my face when I complain about the software and then don't check my own spelling? very red.

Re: Some Days Are Better Than Others. This Is One of Them.

rick — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 12:00:20 -0000

Not surprising that they have a religious theme. I am convinced that all compassion comes from the religious or at least spiritual side of us. Rationale and intellectual is not the path to caring.

Glad the world is right for at least a day. Here's to hoping that it lasts. Peace brother.

Re: He’s Got the Clap

rick — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 14:25:46 -0000

But Bill, he has a certificate! It must be true.

Though it does seem to break at least a half dozen laws of nature.

Re: A Cautionary Tale about Facelifts

rick — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 07:30:23 -0000

Real is what life is all about. No need for anything more than stylish clothes to change a look. Easy of course for someone like me to say. I have never been defined by my physical beauty (a perfect example of understatement).

Re: What Is It About Clulessness?

rick — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 14:05:55 -0000

I think you are being generous calling it cluelessnes. It is more towards self centered or inconsiderate.

Consistent acts of kindness or at least common courtesy I believe will go a long way in making this a better world.

Re: Evelyn Wood Has Been Berry-Berry Good to Me

rick — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 23:57:52 -0000

I need to speed up my reading. it slows me down almost as much as not knowing how to type.

Amazing how much you take in . I can't even get through a single economist on a plane flight.

Re: Jazzed About Jazz

rick — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 18:25:03 -0000

Like many broad categories there are several musical forms that all claim to be jazz and within each form a million variations. I liken "smooth jazz" to getting a lobotomy. It is synthesized crap--though crap with a large following.
Dixieland is fun but in limited quantities and mostly when in NOLA.
Big band music has its place. It can be great but rarely personal.
That is why I like smaller groups from trios to sextets. Not much a fan of be bop. I don't like the sounds to be strained.
Hear the individual notes, the blending of sounds and the recognizable melodies that are taken to new and different places by the best of the improvisers. Hot up tempo or slow and cool. That is good music.
not that I feel stongly about jazz. I just like how the word sounds. Makes my tongue buzz.

Re: Physics Lesson: Bus is Stronger than Taxi Door

rick — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 11:59:58 -0000

I can't wait to meet the amazing Sheryl. We will have to find a way to make that happen.

Re: Merry Christmas 2007

rick — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 11:07:41 -0000

Glad you had a great one. Happiness and peace to the Frank household.

It would be a less good world without you. Glad we got to break some gluten free bread together this year.

Re: 50 Things for 2008

rick — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 02:54:29 -0000

Its good to have a list. Let me know how that Running with Bulls is coming given the condition Sheryl got you to agree to.

Re: Views of Christmas 2007

rick — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 02:58:14 -0000

Having a good time with in-laws is a gift from the gods. It looks as if you received many of the gifts you deserved this year.

Re: Proof We All Can Get Along

rick — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 13:48:29 -0000

I have no dought that most animals can get along. People I am far less sure of.

Re: Proof We All Can Get Along

rick — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 13:54:01 -0000

I meant doubt not drought in case anyone is trying to translate my no-spellcheck reply

Re: My Morning Routine

rick — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 10:55:30 -0000

I am envious of the speed and efficiency. I get up about the same time but a shower and writing a post would be all I might get done in the same time. I wouldn't even have time to dress before I left the house and that would not be pretty.

Speed and efficiency really frees time for more stuff. And you do it on decaf. Do you have a secret besides a genetically high adrenaline flow? Maybe its the Flinstones?

Re: L’etranger

rick — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 13:20:01 -0000

Frank, is this a recent quote? It seems so relevant to the current immigration controversy but it would not shock me if it was decades old.

Sarah, I was recently corrected on my use of the word Indian when I meant Native American. No one used the term Native American when I grew up. Is it truly offensive not to? If so I will try harder.

Frank. I liked the simple elegance of the post. you could have inserted your own commentary but instrad let us readers take from it what we will.

Re: L’etranger

rick — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 13:21:19 -0000

do all the typos make me sound like an idiot or take away from the message?

Re: Snickers the Wonder Dog the First to Wish Sheryl Happy Birthday Today

rick — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 13:33:58 -0000

Sheryl, does the youthful look come because living with Frank is so easy...or in spite of living with Frank. The world wants to know.

Re: Breakfast with the World’s Best Mayor

rick — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 11:09:43 -0000

I once passed Mayor Daley on the street. I considered stopping him and saying hi but I was not sure how the 4 bodyguards would have interpreted my intentions.

I can not imagine Richard M. having breakfast in a place like Little Pete's without a small army.

Re: A Great Number

rick — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 11:44:35 -0000

Not your age, weight or shoe size. Good age to live to.

I give.

Re: A Great Number

rick — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 18:36:47 -0000

JT, that hurts.

Frank, give it up. The suspense is killing me.

Re: The Tuna

rick — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 09:40:24 -0000

Frankie "The Word"

Frankie "B. Frank"

Frankie "The Talking Assassin"

Let me know if any of those stick.Can I get a set of those arrest photos one with you looking straight ahead and one profile holding some numbers under your chin?

Re: My Week Without Bread

rick — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:53:53 -0000

I feel your "pain"-- a pun in French for the unwashed massed who read this blog.

Frank,Pax, try being wheat free forever as am I--except when I cheat. It sucks big time. Frank at least you can choose pasta. Admittedly after a long period of total gluten abstenance I went to alternative grains. However, trust me, nothing beats wheat.

A better video would be the scene from Woody's Love and Death when he says the word wheat several times. One of my favorite comedies of all time btw.

Re: I Miss You

rick — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 16:44:10 -0000

So you are defining bread broadly. Now I am impressed. One of my good friends in college for Lent would give up soft serve ice cream, which was what was served in the dorm, but would eat the scoopable kind.
I never saw that as much of a sacrifice. You however are Da Man

Re: Lost iPhones and Pains in the Ass

rick — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 10:09:17 -0000

Happy about your phone. I having been losing things a lot lately. Scarf in cab. Headphoners probably on a plane. I too try a routine.
Why the the colonoscopy now? Most wait until 50.

Re: Lost iPhones and Pains in the Ass

rick — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:21:11 -0000

So what level oif reward doesd one give for an iPhone. Nice touch on your part but don't people who do nice things expect no more than a thank you?

Re: Is This Site Looking Wanky?

rick — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 11:34:56 -0000

Sorry to hear about the format issues. As a computer anti-nerd i would not have a clue as how to start thinking about what to do.

BTW. love the word wanky

Re: Imagine “Imagine” Sung Better Than the John Lennon’s “Imagine”

rick — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 18:03:07 -0000

WOW!

Re: No More “Good Morning, Good Morning”: One Year Later

rick — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 09:06:39 -0000

It is good to keep memories of special people alive.

So much of what we do has no anchor in time. Therefore, I am often amazed when anniversaries of key events come around. We mourn, we remember but we continue on.

Re: Merkato 55: A Foray into the Meatpacking District

rick — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 08:26:54 -0000

I need to live your life more often. Actually, I need to learn how to live your life. Not in my DNA...but I can change. Great food is quite the motivator.

Re: Reading Glasses and Striped Basses (How Did You Pronounce That Last Word?)

rick — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 17:32:10 -0000

Reading glasses are the bane of middle age. My wife just got some because of the menu in the dimly lit restaurant phenomena. I do not have reading glasses.

Just trifocals.

Re: Happy St. Paddy’s Day

rick — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 16:12:32 -0000

Everyone in Chicago is Irish today.
Any special celabrations in the Roche household?

Re: Happy St. Paddy’s Day

rick — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 11:50:03 -0000

sorry about the late night. I am amazed at how life priorities change with age. As a kid I used to go out and have a Shamrock shake at McD. Later I would go and tip a few green beers. Now salad is my green of choice even on St. P day.

Re: Happy Fifth Anniversary

rick — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 00:14:02 -0000

If only this annoying version of Happy Anniversary could play in the Decider's head for the rest of his life.

Re: Hello, Beautiful

rick — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 08:49:31 -0000

Dude, congrats. That showed willpower and determiniation. Send some my way. I have 12 pounds to lose.

Re: The Nubrella Is Here, The Nubrella is Here, Now We’re Finally Somebody

rick — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 17:00:33 -0000

Just ine question. How long before Charlie turned blue and collapsed from lack of oxygen? It looks like he is wearing a stylish plastic bag over his head.

Re: A Dream About My Grandfather

rick — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:57:52 -0000

Lately my dreams have been of clients. Yech.

This sounds like a wonderful memory. My mom's dad was the only grandfather I remeber. He died when I was 13 and had been sick for awhile. But I remember a kind, loving man who could sing and who definitely made us feel loved.

Re: PA Votes Today

rick — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 11:23:59 -0000

Too bad thee were not more voters like you in PA. The result was disappointing.

Re: Squirrels in the Attic

rick — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 11:20:09 -0000

Just don't let them die. The cost of removing a dead squirrel is even more and decaying squirrels stink up the entire house. I speak from experience.

Re: My Tire Wasn’t the Only Thing Blowing in the Wind on I-95

rick — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 15:05:04 -0000

Glad you and the missus were not hurt.

Funny what people care about. I would not have cared if your ass was showing as much as you getting done as quickly as possible. Of course I am not married to you so the dynamics are a bit different.

I guess you knew about the locking lugnut. That and a tiny jack are what threw me the last time I had to change a tire and I was not on the highway.

Re: What a Difference a Year Makes

rick — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 08:46:25 -0000

What a year. Enjoy the day Sarah.

Re: Dancing Around the Maypole

rick — Fri, 02 May 2008 18:06:25 -0000

I don't know. Young women dancing around "the pole". I gotta believe Freud would have much to say about this.

I guess my days of innocence are long gone.

Re: I Saw Fall’s Bridge Yesterday

rick — Tue, 06 May 2008 12:32:58 -0000

Three rides for me so far this year and none with temps in the 70s. I can't wait for that.
Keep it up. I am envious that you make time to ride during the week. I need to do more than once a weekend.

I am coming to Philly May 22 by noon. Any chance that I can borrow or rent a bike and we can ride that afternoon? I could possibly also leave the afternoon of the 24th instead of the morning if that would work.

Re: Matt Went to the Prom

rick — Tue, 20 May 2008 10:25:11 -0000

We don't have a junior prom but Davide did a tux thing for a formal dance a few months ago. A Tux does snazz up a good looking boy. Expecially one that is normally in t-shirts and jeans or shorts hanging way below the underwear line. Too bad my wife is phobic about having family pictures up on the internet. I would like to show off my boy as you did with Matt.

I love the "quiet room" and the typical mom vs. dad reaction.

3 in the morning. wow. I only end up doing that when travelling and the plane is delayed.

Re: Weirdos

rick — Fri, 30 May 2008 09:15:08 -0000

I think he was attracted by the new haircut. Expect more of this.

Re: I’m Low on Magnetite…or, Why I Didn’t Make It to the Dentist This Morning

rick — Fri, 30 May 2008 23:17:35 -0000

Fathers Day is coming up. I have three letters of wisdom for Sheryl and the boys...GPS.

Re: Daily Show Interviews the Chambers Kids about Gitmo

rick — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 11:19:30 -0000

One of my goals in life is to get my 15 minutes of fame by being on a show like the Daily Show.

Charlie, if this happens, what will your kids have to look forward to for the rest of their lives after hitting the pinnacle at such a tender age.

Obama and Oliver in the same year. Amazing!

Re: I Want an English Garden

rick — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 09:16:25 -0000

The Dukes of Roche.

Re: I’m a Lucky Man

rick — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 09:18:38 -0000

People like you make their own luck.

No one deserves it more.

Re: He’s Uncle Joe and He’s Movin’ Kinda Slow

rick — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 09:10:43 -0000

Say hi to my friend Ami for me. Let me know if you are ever staying overnight. Its not that long a drive from Lincolnshire.

Re: Going Long

rick — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 08:39:13 -0000

We need to do a whole hiking/biking thing when I come out next time.

How far ahead of you was Sheryl?

Re: Deer Are Kicking My Ass and Eating My Tomatoes

rick — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 12:44:18 -0000

I was going to say that I would trade your deer for the family of Racoons that lives in the tree in our back yard... and then I watched the video. I have had some stare downs with mom racoon while her babies were behind her (I chose to go back in the house).

At least I was not stomped on.

Re: Either I Do Pushups or I’ll Soon Need a Pushup Bra

rick — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 18:22:33 -0000

If you are going to run eith the bulls by 50 you better get going. Let me know how it works for you.

Re: Matthew is 17

rick — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 09:57:20 -0000

Is that a picture of a young Frank?

Re: One Year Without a Burger

rick — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 08:40:01 -0000

That picture alone would make NOT eating a cheeseburger impossible for me. You have great self control and you are looking good.

Re: Do You Want an Honest Answer?

rick — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 16:08:05 -0000

There is a part of me that trutly wants the honest answer. Still, I cower waiting for the blunt truth.

Re: Wow, a Month Went By

rick — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 07:33:35 -0000

We have been wondering.

Re: Congratulations, Matt

rick — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 09:18:08 -0000

Congrats to Matt and the parents that raised him.

It is quite a step forward.

Re: A Definition of Teamwork

rick — Tue, 21 Nov 2006 10:51:37 -0000

Is the last name a joke? Love the quote. I know many people who resemble that quote.

Re: For More Creativity, Raise the Roof

rick — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 19:17:53 -0000

Bill I love when people are articulate and eloquent in making their point regardless of the tone. It takes quite the person to make a tome structured around the word horeshit sound eloquent.

Re: HR Consulting or Corporate: Which is the Right Career Move for You?

rick — Wed, 09 May 2007 09:38:53 -0000

One can argue whether or not a kid was at Disney World when you walked in.

Re: We Put the “Cult” in Culture

rick — Tue, 15 May 2007 11:29:05 -0000

Thanks for the honorable mention. Made my day.

Re: Speak Up. No, Shut Up.

rick — Thu, 17 May 2007 08:58:36 -0000

The fear of speaking up is often much greater than the potential consequences. This assumes that the feedback is given in an appropriate manner.
Following this principle has two implications. First, individuals should speak up. It will not be as bad as you think. Second, an organization that believes in the value of two way communications needs to realize that the environment must be made conducive to this or there will be no voices heard. Or if heard once, silenced thereafter.
I guess there is a third implication. Organizations that do not comprehend the value of two way communications need to read this post and then its leaders receive shock therapy.

Re: Hubris and Hiding Poke a Hole in Whole Foods

rick — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 08:52:49 -0000

I agree with everything you said. I do wonder who among us can stand up to the scrutiny of total transparency and not get tarnished once in a while. For me that makes his lack of apology worse than the deed--though this was a specifically stupid deed for a CEO.

Re: Do You Offer Peternity Leave?

rick — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 18:30:09 -0000

Perhaps farther than even a great company needs to go. Take a vacation/personal day. A special designation of pet sick day is making me sick.

I have two cats I love but I have obligations to my clients, my employees and my career.

I just cannot see how this idea makes for a better workplace.

Re: Five Reasons Pay-for-Performance Fails

rick — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 12:39:35 -0000

I have always found that the evaluator trumps the system. A good boss can give great feedback and make tough decisions with a bad system and visa versa. The system helps by providing a modicum of consistency within large organizations.

Re: If Motivating You Is Wrong, I Don’t Want To Be Right

rick — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 10:34:56 -0000

You had me at Hello... but lost me at 99th percentile.

It is thought provoking to imagine what companies would do, and would it be better, if there was not such a high value placed on what other companies are doing and how they are doing it. Surveys have for many companies squashed creativity in pay design and administration.

While I suspect that you are being provocative to make a point with the 99th percentile comment, there are many reasons not just to jump to the "pay high to get the best people" bandwagon. This assumes that : (1) employers do a great job of selecting the "right" people and (2) money is the issue in recruiting and retaining the best people.

Assuming some level of premium pay is appropriate then we need to discuss whether this is fixed pay or high pay for high performers and/or when the company is high performing.

Thanks for stimulating the discussion.

Re: How to Deal with Liars at Work

rick — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 12:23:59 -0000

There are many degrees of workplace liars. I have been lucky in a long career to have only a few times when someone lied about something that I did or did not do.

For me, equally evil are people that dramatically exagerate their accomplishments to enhance their career often at the expense of someone with ethics. I am not referring to people who are good at promoting themselves based on actual acheivement. It is those who speak in generallities and "round up" their level of acheivement. It amazes me how easily many senior people fall for a set of lies if confidently stated when typically a few focused followup questions will reveal the true (i.e. lower)magnitude of acheivement.

Re: If Motivating You Is Wrong, I Don’t Want To Be Right

rick — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 16:04:55 -0000

There is a second brilliant comp person?

Re: Your Mission, Vision and Values Sound Like Gibberish to Employees

rick — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 22:24:18 -0000

What didn't you understand?

Re: Employee Engagement, Athletic Attitude, and Breakfast Sandwiches

rick — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 13:49:27 -0000

You have a lot of intriguing and thought provoking ideas. Clearly in 25 years working in various professional service firms, it is the motivated and caring employees that are the best. I agree that we rarely hire on that basis and virtually never as a primary criteria with the idea of training on the technical competencies.

While you cannot teach people to care about their work, the work environment can destroy an employee's motivation.

Re: About Shared Responsibility

rick — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 11:56:48 -0000

Thanks for the shout out. I had not thought about this dynamic as relating to the work environment but it is true. Coincidently I just spent the first two hours of the work week with my boss and the other people managers discussing where each of our people stand and their development needs.

We had some good but tough discussions as to how to bring people to the next level--for some that just means competent. In all cases we discussed our responsibility versus theirs and the need to keep the standards high.

You have a great knack for seeing linkages. You should be in the communications business. Oh yeah, you are.

Re: Cool Little Perks

rick — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 08:56:54 -0000

Cool perqs are hepful. However they are only additive from an employee' pov when most of the basics are already there. Companies with poor work environments cannot make up for it with cool little perqs.

Unfortunately I know too many places that need cool big overhauls!

Re: A CEO Who Listens — Steve Jobs and the iPhone

rick — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 19:32:06 -0000

It is a nice offer by Jobs. However, being ina glass half empty mood today makes me wonder why he did not anticipate anger from presumably his best, most hard core customers and why he only split the difference on their financial loss.

Re: A CEO Who Listens — Steve Jobs and the iPhone

rick — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 21:53:58 -0000

I was partialy wrong. I just read an article in the WSJ and they are giving credits for the full difference. My apology to Steve Jobs.

I still think he should have anticipated the angry mob.

I agree with you Frank. Once they saw the error of their ways they moved quickly and decisively.

Re: An Odd Thing about HR Communication Consulting

rick — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 09:07:42 -0000

As an exec comp consultant I am occasionally asked for samples in a sales presentation. I never quite understood what the audience was trying to gain from a set of charts or graphs. I always felt that the interpretation of the data rather than the data itself was where the value would be for them. I admit this request is rare relative to communications consulting.

It is becomming quite frequent however for companies to require a detailed analysis of their current plans as part of the sales process. At one time this was part of the work.

Re: Superstars with Attitude

rick — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 12:38:37 -0000

Concept of the article is OK in that some jobs need to be scheduled. The analogy to Iverson does not hold since he is late to practice not games. It is the game time that matters most in the NBA. Sure the team might be better if he practiced with them but the data are not in on that.

The larger issue of flexibility in work hours when flexibility is a real chioce is an important one. Working in professional services, there is potentially considerable room for flexibility. It can become an issue when large groups of employees are involved. I/We try to accomodate all sorts of work life issues whenever possible and therefore any reasonable schedule that provides for client work being done in a quality and timely manner. As my first boss told me, I could work any 70 hours per week I wanted!

I recently though had one new employee who pushed not being in the office to, or in my opinion past, the limit. It clearly was an issue to other employees and eventually got to the point where the employee could not execute the responsibilities of the job.

Once you stop drawing the line, however, it is hard to agree on where the line is.

Re: A Little Counter-Communication by SEPTA

rick — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 09:45:38 -0000

I love this. While it may be that no communications will reach the truly inconsiderate, this should make those in the gray area take notice and maybe even change their behavior.

Not officious, not condescending. Nice mix of serious and humor. And this came from a public transit agency. Even more amazing.

Re: Just Say No to National Boss’s Day

rick — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 12:26:31 -0000

How about a national "Person Who Helped Me Develop Into The Better and More Highly Rewarded and Actualized Worker Than I Was A Year Ago" day.

Not that one should wait for a particular day but I would like to recognize the people who helped me along the way and would hope that anyone I helped would feel the same.

Often, these people were not my direct supervisor. Actually none of my direct "bosses" qualify. That's what I get for working in professional services my entire career.

Re: What If You Hired Only the Best People and Paid Them Like Superstars?

rick — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 09:55:47 -0000

I generally agree with your basic concept. I have worked with far too many people who were hired because they were " cheap" and it was reflected in the quality of their work.

Before larger companies go paying at the high end of the market they need to know what qualities make a quality employee for them. Many do not. Pay cannot substitute for good selection, training, environment, etc.

Re: Google Stock Options Rub Me the Right Way

rick — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 09:32:31 -0000

I get the lottery. We know that's a game of chance. However, I have mixed feelings regarding the right place/right time but paid way beyond value stories. Good for her I guess but it inflates expectations for many people.

In terms of the typical Google option recipient, I suspect that at some future time Google will have some issues in internal equity and maybe even attracting and retaining talent. Most companies with explosive growth eventually hit a period where they slow, stagnate or even fall back in terms of performance and therefore share price. Walmart also used to talk about the number of ordinary employee millionaires it made. Not no more.
I will hold Google above the already high regard I have for them if they successfully navigate that period in the company's life.

Re: Unique Isn’t Always What It’s Cracked Up to Be

rick — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 20:16:21 -0000

I am starting to collect phrases of wisdom that are contrary. This poster probably has a contrarian one. Isn't there one with a group of penquins where one is a different color and says something about the virtues of standing out?

If anyone can think of more, let me know before Frank has to take this post down.

Re: 6AM to Chicago

rick — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 09:16:42 -0000

I would like to know from your research what gives people the energy to be up early enough to catch a 6 am plane and still be effective when they get off at the other end. Is it the rewarding work? Making the sacrifice for family? Personal drive to be successful? Starbucks lattes?

Add that to your interview questions.

Re: An HR Joke for the Small Business Owner

rick — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:13:45 -0000

Great joke. Usually I see the punch line coming but not this time.

It is interesting that you share this just at the time I am talking pay decisions with my staff. I am getting a lot of dissatisfaction from some despite a couple of double digit raises and healthy bonuses. The issue in their minds is keeping up with their interpretation of market for which they have very fuzzy references. At no time do they consider the amount of value they have created or the degree of the improvement in their skills. I on the otherhand spend much time on their development for which I get no credit and get a small single digit raise.
I am going into my boss' office right now and demanding a weekly bottle of bourbon!

Re: HR’s Big Job? Help Managers Be Better Managers

rick — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 13:20:19 -0000

Why on this topic in particular do I feel like we are saying the same things that my B-scholl professors were saying in the late 1970s? have companies made so little progress?

Re: KnowHR Named by HR World as One of the 25 Top HR Influencers of 2007

rick — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 09:02:22 -0000

Congratulations. This is fantastic and well deserved.
Do you think the writer of the piece was purposely being clever when referring to the "frank advice" provided by this blog?

Re: A Little Humility Goes a Long Way

rick — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 17:40:00 -0000

Hillary is a great example of not being able to predict where life's travels will take you.

Humility is a great thing. one can be proud of their acheivemnts and humble at the same time. I think that is part of the definition of mench.

I was wondering why their were "unsitely" lines. I am too technologically ignorant to know that it was the browser. Funny thing is that I share a name with a guy in my company's IT department. That's irony of a large magnitude.

Re: Whoever Designed Ray Mozilo’s Severance Package Should Be Ashamed

rick — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 22:39:52 -0000

JT's explaination is spot on in terms of the way things are now. I dream of a world where accountability and creativity come together to significantly reduce awards when CEOs sell their companies or get fired because they fail.
If they get alot while they are successful they should get little when they don't. Few boards are willing to buck current practice or the will of a successful CEO to put in some fail safe plans.

It is not just that the average person fails to understand how things work in a big corporation, it is that big corporations do not yet understand that investors will not put up with the outrageous forever.
(You should be hearing thunder rolling in the background.)

Re: Can You Motivate Someone?

rick — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:03:44 -0000

Your ability to link the issues of HR to daily life is one of the things that make this blog such an interesting read.

You should be in communications.

Re: Looks: Why They Matter More Than You Imagined

rick — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 12:13:54 -0000

It is important to look beyond this "Looks" thing.

First of all it does not mean that those of us not born with exceptionally good looks cannot be successful.

Second of all dress, confidence, an outgoing personality and saying intelligent things can and will change a person's perceptions of how we look. I am basing this on experience rather than scientific research.

I do believe that the untalented but beautiful may have an easier time in life than the untalented and not so good looking. Oh well. life is not fair. Next subject.

Re: Business Slang: Incentivize

rick — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 13:23:05 -0000

Sarah, you started with my fav business slang word. Do you think there is a difference in meaning between motivating and incentiving?

My sense is that a person can be motivated through either intrinsic or extrinsic rewards while they are incented only through extrinsic ones-- usually cash.

Good to see you posting. Write on!

Re: Performance Reviews Must Die

rick — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 12:54:14 -0000

My thought are based on being both a giver and receiver of performance reviews across several companies.

Annual or semi-annual reviews in on forms and delivered in a meeting can be effective if:
regular feedback is also provided--this is not an either or but a both

the performance expectations are made as clear as possible as early in the year as possible

the reviewer/supervisor learns the proper ways to have a performance discussion and uses them

I am finding that employees in their 20s and 30s like to have a formal time to discuss performance and careers. Just because most companies do not make the investments to do it right does not mean the process is wrong. Unfortunately, the time commitment and the lack of quality feedback givers may be insurmountable roadblocks to doing these well. I have not seen a technology solution that makes one-on-one feedback more efficient without destroying the effectiveness.

Re: Business Slang: Concepting

rick — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 12:58:23 -0000

Sarah, have you found the use of concepting to be prevalant? I have not heard it before. The word itself does not communicate the definition well.

Re: Business Slang: Concepting

rick — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 17:29:36 -0000

Sarah, is groovy next Monday's word? You were not even born by end of the 60s. Are you allowed to use it:)

Re: Suffer from Motivational Deficiency Disorder?

rick — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 09:27:14 -0000

Yes managers have a lot to do with motivation but I expect employees to start with some of their own. Managers can enhance or destroy what exists but cannot create the initial spark.

BTW. It is a shame that pill is not real. There are some days where I could use a dose.

Re: Punctuality

rick — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 19:47:46 -0000

The personal and the professional for me require different responses.

Working in a professional services firm I tend to take a flexible view of what being on-time means. For meetings where a client is involved, I agree with the be 10 minutes early, VL sense of time. For meetings with others from my own company I believe in be on time though not necessarily early. Nothing is worse than having several busy people waiting for the one who could not keep to a schedule. In terms of showing up each day, I do not specify a start time for the professionals that report to me. I expect that they get all of their work done and some prefer early while others work late. That flexibility helps me retain good people.

For person stuff such as family gatherings or parties I prefer flexibility unless the host has a need for everyone to be there at a set time or if you have reservations. We all lead busy lives and often things come up that if handled immediately would be better than left for the future just to ensure promptness. I do not belkieve in rules for rules sake. However, have noted to never be late to something you invite me to should I be lucky enough to receive an invitation.

Re: A Good Story About Executive Compensation

rick — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 19:27:53 -0000

JT, I applaud the execs that took a reduced bonus. Such actions are few and far between. This demonstrates leadership.

However, I caution the writer of this post to be careful on what he describes as a good exec comp story. Ralph Roberts,a founder who is no longer the CEO, earned a base salary of $1.8 million plus other millions in bonuses and stock grants plus had the right to 5 years of pay after his death for his roles as chairmen of the executive and finance committees. I am sure the 88 year old contributes value in excess of the $1 he will now be getting annually, however as a subscriber I must wonder aloud if the value added was equal to what he received in pay over the past two years. The pay after death seemed a bit much.
I have worked with several founders who continued to be paid handsomely after they moved out of the CEO role so I know that getting this done was no simple feat. Just a bit overdue.

Re: A Good Story About Executive Compensation

rick — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 23:06:17 -0000

I think founders can add alot but I do not put as high a value as you on showing up and wearing a bow tie.

I would do the same for a fraction of what he was taking.

Re: Lickable Employee Communication?

rick — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 09:27:13 -0000

My favorite is lickable email.

Re: Days Off are the New Short-Term Incentives

rick — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 13:11:39 -0000

Many of us Baby Boomers like time off as well. For me, by being in the professional services business I technically am entitled to a whole bunch of vacation. The incentive would be if management could help find a way that I could take most of my time without it then being impossible to acheive my performance goals-- and get dinged at pay time.

Re: Can a Fish Climb a Tree?

rick — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 13:17:29 -0000

This is a fantasic quote. It encourages us to look at people as individuals. And for us to evaluate whether what we are doing is truly right for us.

Re: Business Slang: TLA – Three Letter Acronym

rick — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 13:21:59 -0000

Sarah, why limit your comments to TLAs? Are they fundamentally different than all the bad 4LAs?
I think that the entire family of LAs should be taken out and shot.

Re: How Many People Wandered In One Hour Late Today?

rick — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 15:58:58 -0000

I came in on time but was grumpy from missing my hour of sleep this weekend.

On another note, where is my Business Slang? What other reason did I have for leaping out of bed on a Monday?

Re: Performance Reviews Poo-Pooed by High Performers

rick — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 12:19:24 -0000

I am in agreement with the concept of something different for superstars. However, I believe that even superstars need constructive and developmental feedback now and again. Perhaps not the 7 good three bad approach.

Re: A Personal Philosophy: Be the Best

rick — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 20:14:57 -0000

Its been 5 years. How time flies. I am very proud of both of you.

Great quote btw.

Re: A Personal Philosophy: Be the Best

rick — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 13:25:06 -0000

It is true that you and Sarah and the team deliver something fundementally different than all the pretenders who think they know how to communicate.

Re: How Do You Pay for Big Ideas?

rick — Tue, 06 May 2008 08:45:09 -0000

Its the same argument for paying sale people more. If you don't sell there is nothing to execute.

That said, if you can't execute selling, or ideas, don't matter. Both are important to success.

Re: 7 Things HR Needs to Say to Managers in an Economic Downturn

rick — Wed, 14 May 2008 20:03:09 -0000

Step up or step out. Your tone has gotten feisty in your posts about what to do in the downturn. It is not that I disagree that people need to step it up when times are bad. Through the three downturns that I experienced, a crack the whip approach does little more than to freeze people who are already nervous.

One thing HR needs to do with managers is to give them the historical perspective that downturns do not last forever and the tools for them to communicate this to their employees. Then focus on what things can be done to improve short term results as well as what can be done now so that when the broad economics turn back up, they and the company will be set to prosper.

Also, managers need to know what approaches that work for them in good times may not in tough times.

As for paying attention to the high performers, I have lived with leaders who change their opinions of people in tough times. there are people who outperform in the good times and underperform in the bad. We should be helping those tarnished stars learn how to succeed in the tough times because once we let them go we may not be able to get them back later. They will be working for our competitors.

Re: We Need More Line 10

rick — Wed, 21 May 2008 10:35:07 -0000

Line 10 seems to be hard for younger workers (20s to early 30s) to accept unless they see the task to be done as furthering their careers. Almost all else is to be excluded.
I have spent much mentoring time eplaining two things. First, this company needs to be successfulin order to provide opportunities. Therefore we all must do whatever it takes for that to happen.
Second, as a person wanting to grow we have an obligation to make sure that happens but that will not be 100 percent of the work experience. Part will be what I call the give back. What will each of us do to help the next generation. The giver back starts earlier in one,s career than most younger workers realize.

Re: HR Gardening Tip of the Day: Dig a $100 Hole

rick — Wed, 28 May 2008 10:00:31 -0000

I take this to mean that for all employees you should prepare for their on-boarding and help them grow in their careers. I agree. Having worked in consulting most of my life, I have found that these companies expect you to dig your own hole once you get there. The cost in lost productivity and engagement is large.

Also, working with executives I find that that not only does a realy big hole get dug since the plant is expensive but the ratio of plant to hole cost increases. (This is a tough analogy to maintain.)

Lastly, since you frequently recommend hiring superstars, for those folk the hole must be truly large and deep.

I agree with you 100% directionally but at some point the ROI does need to be a factor.

btw. fantastic yard

Re: HR Gardening Tip of the Day: The Best Time to Plant a Tree

rick — Wed, 28 May 2008 10:05:32 -0000

True wisdom. The pace of change in the world is accelerating and you needs to think about what you want now if you are to be prepared to take it in the future.

You need to be ready for that moment when 2 friends go for a short walk and the next thing you know you are quitting your corporate job and starting your own company.

Re: Are You an HR Nurturer or HR Punisher?

rick — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 09:26:18 -0000

The same comments can apply to managers generally. I learned my management style from two types of people. My boss of 15 years was the guy I learned from by doing the opposite of what he did. He was not a punisher per se, just clueless--as many people who grow up in professional services are on issues of management and leadership. Fortunately I had two people who served as teachers and mentors from whom I learned the right way.

In recent years I have devolved just a bit to where a few of the people that work for me would probably label my management style as "sarcasm". I have lost patience for people who make the same mistakes over and over and are unwilling to listen. Hence, the sarcasm. It got to the point with one young man that I had to pause and let him know that I was no linger joking and that he should pay attention to what I had just told him. A true teaching moment had occurred.

Re: I Like Your Shoes, Can I Follow You?

rick — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 09:28:49 -0000

Thoughful and clever post Shawn. Makes me wonder how my people perceive me as a leader.

Re: How to Communicate to HR Punk Rockers

rick — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 17:23:14 -0000

I don't know if I can limit to twitter but I am working hard to use fewer words and fewer pages.

Re: Psst…Did You Hear?

rick — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 09:22:28 -0000

If you manage people it is so important to keep up with the gossip. Far too many things become real even when they aren't. It is best to correct misperceptions quickly.

Re: Who I Want to Work with Me

rick — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 12:24:17 -0000

Can't argue with the quote. Having fully formed capabilities or the ability to learn quickly are also high on my list these days. I may need to develop a great quote about these traits though it is hard to compete with TR.

Re: HR Models Don’t Work

rick — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 08:59:57 -0000

I agree. It is the action or inaction that shouts out a company's culture to employees. Platitudes never work. I have learned to hate the word engagement--unless it refers to an intention to be wed-- as much as all the other useless phrases that preceeded it.

Focus on the action words, otherwise known as verbs. Do things to engage people rather think about engagement. Pay your best people much better and help the others so they can become one of the best. Develop a strategy but don't promote it. Execute it.

I have a great fondness for verbs.

Re: Pitch Your Policy Manuals

rick — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 09:25:44 -0000

Unintended consequences baby. Gotta love 'em.

I am frequently amazed that people running companies, or HR do not think through the next few steps of the logic. Maybe chess grand master instead of MBA should be a qualification for all leadership positions. (I think that there is a new best selling business book in that idea.)

Re: “Because That’s the Way We’ve Always Done It” Is Bunk

rick — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 14:26:18 -0000

Frank, I absolutely agree.

However, "Because I said so" is acceptable as long as I am the one doing the saying.

Re: What’s Your Vacation Policy?

rick — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 08:33:00 -0000

I was just at a client where the CEO bragged that he just celebrated the 5th anniversary of his last vacation. What do you think that company's vacation policy is like?

Re: Why I’d Want Usain Bolt on My Team

rick — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:13:45 -0000

As long as we are insisting on taking an athelet's actions and relate it to a corporate environment to make a point, lets consider the following:

he did not just win the race against the best sprinters in the world but he obliterated the field and the world record. While I might have waited until the race was officially over to celebrate, I would be celebrating too.

In my opinion he did nothing to show up his fellow racers, the gestuture was internally focused.

Froma corporate standpoint even if he was American I would recognize his youth and perhaps take this as mentoring moment to help him undersatnd the beuty of acting like he has been there before which is a very good lesson for young associates

Lastly, damn he is fast

Re: Scratching My Head

rick — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 11:09:51 -0000

Before jumping to conclusions, let's put this in perspective. Wall Street CEOs have become accustomed to bonuses in excess of $100 million so Thain can argue that $10 million is a massive pay cut.
Also, he was brought in after most of the damage was done by the prior CEO and that the $15 million he got as a signing bonus does not count when assessing this year's pay--that was just a cost of getting him to take the job. The Fed bailout and the purchase by Bof A saved the company and he made that happen. That alone is worth $10 million.

One
Two
Three
Four

OK. Just kidding. There is no perspective other than the company failed while he was in the job. He would have taken many millions if he had somehow turned the company around and the only fair pay for performance is a big goose egg. Had you going there for awhile.

Re: Scratching My Head

rick — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 20:50:17 -0000

Frank, $10 million is $10 million and too many of these people just do not understand that simple fact.

Re: Focusing on the Negative Never Works

rick — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 11:58:19 -0000

Frank, I admire the concept of all positive feedback. I remember my most inspiring managers and that was their focus. I also am against Gotchas.

And yet I am facing for the second year in a row the most difficult performance reviews of my career. I am manager to a person talented in many ways, who works hard and is a good person. Yet he will not be able to reach his stated career goals without being able to change his approach to client work in a material way. This is a trees person who needs to learn how to see the forest.
We had this conversation last year and many times during the year. The feedback will have positive elements but will need some fundementally negative ones--- unless one of your readers has some approach that I am unaware of to positively state that he is not doing what he needs to.