Can’t we all just get along? Client & Consultant Satisfaction w/Dr. Linne Bourget Part 2

Part II:

Dr L: Well, yes, the power of Love and not Fear. Our culture is so rooted in tearing each other down. In creating the strengths-based leadership movement and writing my trademarked positive leadership series “What You Say Is What You Get®”, I understood time, and time again from my opportunities that my clients need to hear how amazing they are. This is how I begin my process. The most vital thing is to really get clear, get authentic and get real about what everyone is thinking, starting with their strengths and greatness.

MC: How do you achieve that? Group dynamic or team building?

Dr L: Initially, I conduct a series of very intensive personal interviews. One-on-one with permission and the full support of the hiring client executive, usually the Sr. V.P, V. P. or Director or owner of an entire company, I express that this is going to be a quick fix, but not the usual band-aid type which is often the bane of our American and ‘Old’ mentality in business, well come in and fix it all now!  My work is fast and deep, achieving great results for clients much faster than other change and leadership approaches.

MC: Like a fast-food culture, all the area’s in business want to increase their bottom line yesterday! Do you often hear that, do what I’m telling you or what I want now attitude?

Dr L: Sometimes, but in walking in, stepping into the arena of support with the structure and my approach all on the table, tell them, I respect you, I appreciate your expertise and your degrees and what you’ve achieved and successfully manifested in business, and I am an expert in my field. I am completing these interviews so I can support you and your culture in growing and expanding your business.

MC: Oh, okay.

Dr. L: Ah, yes, to operate in the space of ‘now’ it is a powerful place because energetically, and intuitively if you check in before you jump in to the situation, well, there is not only knowing but also being present to what is needed. I find that after I’ve done a series of interviews, starting with the highest-level executives, and team members, to the supporting staff, or researchers, they may not really know what their role or mission is.

MC: So, for example, the major issue being they don’t know their purpose? Why they are doing what they are doing? Fascinating…what about the corporate handbook or orientation? (Smiling)

Dr. L: Well, that is true, but often, my experiences and clients are heavy in computers, science and technology. So, Mensa intelligence, but fewer social skills! They have no training in how to communicate their problems or express them.  Challenges in their team building, and creating well win-win conversations with their associates and managers.

MC: That is deep Dr. L.

Dr. L: Micaela, I am the queen of ‘deep’.  In the words of your generation, superficial is ‘toast’!

MC: Ha!  Perfect! (Laughing)

Dr. L: Yes, I am committed when hired by an organization and brought on to clearly define their problem so that they and I will be successful. I am dedicated to finding out all that is lying underneath, the truth, the deep need. Here goes a thought,  superficial always puts an organization or business at risk. We can’t create on the superficial, but can move mountains when we get to the deep resources of an issue and resolution is guaranteed.

MC: Dr. Linne, I am wow…floored. I could talk about this topic for weeks.  It is really for me been just looking at where and how I can be more effective, personable and real with my clients.

Dr. L: Well, I guess we could (Laughing) I’ve dedicated my entire career to it.
I am just excited to be sharing it with you and I must mention my new book to you and your readers.

MC: Yes, what is the title where can we all get it, and do tell us, how do folks reach out to you to engage you for their business.

Dr. L:  Well, the name of my book is called From Old Power to New Power: Which Leaders Will Survive? ~Is currently available on www.amazon.com

It, and also in audio form which is not up on the site yet but is 5 hrs, on 5CDs in my own voice.  Just email us for the info, it is brand new, so I am feeling like the proud Mom.

MC: Awesome, I’m going to call you the Quantum Connector! My new Super Hero name for Dr. Linne! (Smiling) ’cause it appears that we all need to fall in line. Thank you again for your time, Dr. Linne and for your contribution to this industry. You are a trail-blazer and have created a true approach to business that I am happy to say I’m working to integrate daily into my business. Can we ask you back again? We’ll have to create something really fun for our next round?

Dr. L: Micaela, anytime! Thank you for asking me to speak with you and best of luck in your endeavors, “Ambassador of Kwan”!  I love it….you are saying it, and being it, Micaela.

MC: You rock.  Thanks Dr. Linne !

Dr. Linne Bourget’s can be contacted at her firm, The Institute for Transformation Leaders & Consultants, in Scottsdale, Arizona.  She provides practical, positive, collaborative, easier and faster. She has a University of Chicago M.B.A. & B.A. in Economics. Her most recent book From Old Power to New Power: Which Leaders Will Survive? By Dr. Linne Bourget is currently available on www.amazon.com.

For any further information on Dr. Bourget;  to inquire about her services, books, e-books and articles on her site below:

http://drlinnebourget.blogspot.com/
http://www.whatyousayiswhatyouget.com/services.html

Till Later,
Happy Planning
Micaela

The Client must always be happy but, how about the Consultant?

Part II-

So, when I initially wrote this Rule 1 I was totally real about my perspective and my opinion…but I left one important factor out…the happiness of the Consultant! Often called in to complete miracles in an abbreviated and or new project, the challenge is actually never getting the work done, but being prevented from getting your work done.  It is a wonderful experience to have the work and the knowledge of well, time and experience; but personality, and resources are what makes the Consultant’s job possible.

Tip: Definitely communicate with your team, and your vendors on a regular basis so they are familiar with you, your work ethic and style of conducting business.  Frequently, without a safety net you are responsible for completing, and engaging in a high level of conversation and commitment and this must be met with integrity. All we have is our word in this life, so when people know your word, and how you handle your projects, when a problem arises, it can just be that, a problem and not reasoned as your issue.

Also, check in with yourself.  Are your needs being met to complete the project?  When you are you starting, stopping, being paid for wrapping-up?  Be sure to get the  necessary information, supporting documents, and calendar.  There is nothing worse than attempting to run, and support a Social Media Campaign and you have not been brought current on the Who, What, Where, When Why and How?  Take the time to air and ask  for a  time-out, to express what is in need of shifting in order for you to fulfill your role, in the project.

Tip: Create an overall intake sheet for running acute projects. Implement your favorite techniques, color, games, contests, etc to gain support, interest and fun in your work/professional mode. Utilize the format that works best for you as well.

Finally, this is a fly by the seat of your pants business, but just cause everyone else is jumping does that mean that you have to?  Invest in yourself, listening to your inner voice, and instinct on when it looks wrong, feels wrong and is too hard; Occam’s Razor, the thing that is the most obvious is usually the answer.  Following your internal pole is what will keep you on course and without issue when the time, resources and responsibility all come to a grinding halt.

I was just reminded of how tenuous this life and work can be.  It is never a guarantee that all will end smoothly but what is guaranteed is your ability as a consultant, as a steward of service, to rise to the challenge, as it is and surpass it!  You are resource that must be the eye of the storm.  Go forth and be the all-seeing eye, keeping your head, your thoughts and your mouth focused on creating a Win-Win scenario in every discussion.

I remain on the path of the “Corporate Mystic” & trust in my ability and possibility to always get the job done. Blessings to my fellow Mystics & entrepreneurs and please take a look at my earlier positing from 4.30.10!

Part 1: (April 30th Posting)

I recall when I began working with clients, it was my sophomore year of college. I got a job during my Work-Study as a Personal Assistant, to the Director of the Alcohol and Drug Awareness Project, on campus. It was such a relief, I admit, as being on Work-Study, you were responsible to find a place that would fit you and your schedule every year! What a feat, as you are dealing with the personalities of campus offices, administration, bureaucracy and so many hoops to jump, I had no idea how wet my feet were getting with experience. My enjoyment was in seeing and knowing that every day, no matter how crazy class was with my reading or assignments, that I could carve out 4 hours a day, and manifest completion out of chaos.

My supervisor was the best opportunity that a young, and entrepreneurial woman like myself could have asked for. She was not savvy about computers, or email or using the phone system. This lack of technological know-how, put me in a position of learning how to break down a procedure to use a program step-by-step, what needed to be noted, and ignored, and most importantly how to allow my supervisor to be more efficient and have more time for her patients.

It was a sad day when I left, after being in service to the ADAP office through my 3 years of my college career, an allegedly rare scenario in Work-Study. I had amassed so much knowledge, nuances in conduct on a confidential level, as all the patients were my fellow peers on campus. In addition to putting the entire office, online, and systematizing all of her patient files, and personal files, I also managed to learn what it was to work with a client. My supervisor had to choose to hire me back every single year, and she was challenging to work with as she had no want to step into utilizing technology, a tool that we know now is a part of making an office, a project or a person work with discipline.

It is always my goal to work with a client until they are totally satisfied. This means that you create a clear and direct line of communication, responsibility and goals, as both of us need to know what we’re getting into. When you have this primary and vital rule followed, the client’s happiness above all else, the process will be effortless and easy. If you enjoy what you do, like I enjoy being of service and starting with a great idea, and working it through till the champagne is being poured. So, think about your goals, be real with your client, and please from the perspective of a Professional Consultant, we can’t read minds…at least not all of us can, so honesty is the best policy, with your Vendor/Consultant.

Good luck out there and Happy Planning…

Micaela

Rule #13- (MIFS) Why not knowing, is the ultimate tool in Social Media PR

My mother used to say this to me all the time, usually when I was upset about something very nominal, “in the grand scheme of life, how important is this really Micaela?” Well, I’m so happy to say that it is one of those pearl phrases that pops into mind,when I’m facing what looks like a NO to everyone else, except me. Recently, I was gifted an opportunity to step into all that I was saying I knew. For 10 years I have had the great pleasure of working with and on some really dynamic projects, and I have to say now, that I know what I have no clue what I’m doing.

Now, this is not what you want to say out loud, but do you? I mean if you really think long, and not too hard, as a Social Media/ Public Relations/ Ambassador of Kwan, my approach, knowing is probably the worst behavior to show. When you know something, your’re totally fixed, settled and resigned to a way of being, an approach, and a thought process. However, when you stick to the “fundamentals” as I expressed in my blog last week, you give yourself and your client room to breathe.  Let’s be clear. There are a lot of basics that need and should be adhered to. One, major and very important factor that I was dealing with this week, is having a team ready.

Now, sometimes this is not an option,and this is where the phrase “in the grand scheme…” comes to mind as well as the really vital aspect, what is the goal of the project? What is the purpose of my being here? After you have clarity around this, making any and all moves necessary for the goal is what needs to be done. Sometimes, this requires a diplomatic and deliberate approach. When I put this hat on, it’s a serious one, as the key component of my ‘brand’ creating “Kwan” is based on relationship building with my community. It is a little ‘old-school’ and ironic given that I’m thinking about how the more things change, the more they stay the same…you’ve got to deliver for your client, no matter what. On the method, the habit, the routine, don’t stick to one, I have the discipline to work a plan, create an outline and a clear and realistic deliverable goal. However, attempting to wrangle it, will only cause heart-ache and strife to all involved.

My goal the last 3 weeks has been to stay in the flow of not knowing, being unattached, staying committed to the goal, creating an opportunity where someone else received a no, and most importantly giving everyone the room to be themselves; if you are a squeaky clean, nit-picking on everything is not necessary, I am not perfect. However, with the phrase of “in the grand scheme of things Micaela how important is the really?”…has been keeping me above the water and yes, I’m proud to say not only treading water but about to ride the wave in to shore, thanks Mom.

Till Later,
Happy Planning
Micaela Cordoba

http://www.mayaindieseries.com/schedules

Rule #11- Maya Indie Film Series, (MIFS) how to engage a new audience

Aurora is serving a prison sentence for a robbery gone wrong. Her accomplices, Ana, her sister, Gloria and Paloma, are four women for whom life has not been easy. For Ana especially, a prostitute with a lust for money, accepting the marriage proposal of Felix, a dangerous and powerful Mexican drug trafficker, is a no-brainer. She moves with him to Mexico and endures both physical and emotional abuse, all while plotting to take a bite out Felix’s highly lucrative business dealings. With Aurora’s stretch in prison coming to an end, and with Gloria and Paloma already in Mexico, Ana finally has the crew she needs to hit back at Felix and his gang. A double-assault: money and revenge. Together the four women are ready for their lucky strike!

I went to see this film this week while the amazing Maya Indie Film Series visited NYC, and I have to say it is the best film I’ve seen all year. I’m a film buff, so when offered the opportunity to support the project the Maya Indie Film Series through my business, Social Media PR, Marketing and building a ‘buzz’ I welcomed the chance. It was no surprise to me to see the caliber of talent in the projects and the films being screened in this series 2010. I was also at ease, when I heard the names Jimmy Smits, Martin Sheen, Ray Liotta, Ana de La Reguera just to name a few of the actors involved in this powerful series showcasing the work of Latino filmmakers, and independent story-telling, de la corazon from the heart.

Of course, I would première my visual experience with the famous style of Spanish filmmakers. True to my experiences with the auteur’s of my time, Almodovar, Rodruquez and now Agustin Diaz Yanes. In addition to being intense and full of twists and turns, the story takes it’s time. Unlike a lot of our traditional Hollywood models of visual creativity, “Solo Quiero Caminar” gives the audience an opportunity to get to know who we are watching, and why they are taking action in their lives without a drop in step. In addition, to never being bored, or confused, it does not hurt that the ever talented Diego Luna takes a tour-de-force performance to the next level with his humility and humor. Always enjoying Mr. Luna, and having had the favorite “Y Tu Mama Tambien” in my list for years, it was no surprise to see this film hit the series after being a successful release in 2008 in his native Madrid Spain.

Like most writer/director’s, Mr. Yanes allows his characters to push, punch and dig their way through some of the juiciest dialogue and fast-moving plot turns as I’ve seen in years. It was such a treat to get on a ride and have no idea where it was going to end up. However, I did know that I was being led by some of the sassiest, and fiery Latina’s that I’ve seen on-screen in the states. We have seen his homage to the strong women in his life in his earlier turn with Ms. Penelope Cruz (for all us Pop-Culture kids she is happily married to fellow Spaniard Mr. Javier Bardem, Felicidades!!) In “Don’t Tempt Me”, like the powerful Mr. Cruz in her role, Ms. Ariadna Gil is taking no prisoners, literally. Unlike most female protagonist roles in the american cinema, there is something powerfully vulnerable and fragile about this woman. It is hard to see, if you’re not looking, almost impossible if you are just looking at her being the head of her ‘hemanas de sange’ blood sisters. She is no-nonsense, immediate and the most multi-dimensional character I’ve seen written for the screen in years….and I see a lot of foreign films and flops.

To her partner’s in crime, KUDOS!! Victoria Abril, Pilar López de Ayala, Elena Anaya, and José María Yazpik for being the meanest villian with a beautiful delivery I’ve ever seen. In my mind the crime of the century if people don’t demand from their video store for a copy, (Blockbuster will be releasing this film as well as all the other’s in this series, yes kids at a Blockbuster near you this fall) just in time for you to get your very own copy. The trail of blood, words and tears ended, and I did not want to get up…and having invited one of my very good friends to check out the screening with me, we continued to chat well after the movie about how great it was to see a realistic action movie. My good friend JJ said “It was really amazing to see women in an action film, and being strong & vulnerable at the same time. I mean they were being over-powered but they persevered because they were on a mission.” I would say that all the action buffs, like me who jump at the chance to see the Salt’s, and Bourne’s of our time, both guys and girls alike will get a real kick out of the coolest gun I have ever seen on-screen, and I can’t say anymore, because I’ll spoil it.

I will be giving you some more juicy comments from the land of the screen where Latino’s and Latina’s are kicking butt and taking names. The world of the Maya Indie Film Series has descended upon Chicago, with Ryan Heil leading the Latino love from LIVEstyle Entertainment, the city that has the BEST pizza I’ve ever had, sorry Nueva York, but I’m real with my food now! To everyone who has offered their support and love to this series, we all appreciate it. Viva La Raza!!

Happy Planning, and See you at the next screening!
Micaela

Maya Indie Film Series-

www.twitter.com/MayaEnt
www.mayaindieseries.com

Just a little trailer for you all wondering what I’m so excited about!
http://www.youtube.com/v/FsX4wMQxzbw&feature=player_embedded&autoplay=1