Bookmarks 10

Weekly Bookmarks
10 – April 14, 2019

“Grit in a word is stamina.” – Angela Duckworth

1. What I’m Reading

Emotional Intelligence and Grit could possibly be two of the most highly-sought-after traits when searching for new and rising stars for a growing business. 

Do you prefer reading about emotional intelligence and grit, or do you instead opt to read about men and women who have persevered hardship? I lean toward the latter.

I just finished a book that shook me entitled A Woman in Berlin. The diary is written by an anonymous citizen who lived in Berlin while the city was being taken over by Russia in 1945 during World War II. After reading this book, profits, cash flow, ERP issues, banking frustrations, people problems, and competitive pressures seem minor compared to what the Berlin civilians endured for 90-some days during the spring of 1945.

2. What I’m Writing

I’ve never considered myself a strong writer. Accordingly, I practice this skill by answering questions on the Quora platform that cause me to think and to be helpful at the same time. This week, I wrote why a company might stop its profit-sharing plan after 30 years. I’m curious how the plan endured for 3 decades. 

3. What I’m Reading Beyond Books

I find certain leadership frameworks helpful, but only when they are actionable. The Hersey & Blanchard Situational Leadership Styles is instructive as it’s based on using the right techniques for situations or persons. There is no right style for all situations. Current events could require a directing, coaching, supportive, or delegating approach. If interested, this article is about a 1-minute skim and the visuals are outstanding.     

4. What I’m Watching

Do you work with buyers? Or are you a supply chain professional yourself?

I learned about ATKearney’s Purchasing Chessboard earlier this week which includes 4 basic strategies, 16 levers, and 64 tactics. The link includes a 6-minute tutorial on how to use the tool. One word–fascinating. 

5. Homework Assignment

This week, I posted an article about great business books in the 1990s. That article includes an assignment:

1. What was the top business book the year before you started your career?
2. What was the top business book the year you started your career?
3. What was the top business book the year after you started your career?

Do you own a business instead? Just swap ‘career’ for the years before, during, and after you started your business. You do not need to read the books now, but try identifying the best books during those 3 years and save them for later.​

Recent Bookmarks 09 | 08 | 07

Thank You!

Thank you for reading. If you like the above and the posts at CFO Bookshelf, may I ask a favor? Feel free to share this with other readers along with commenting on your favorite blog posts in LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.

Take care and have a great week. Always be learning.