Thank the Big Three for Destroying the image of Biz Jets: Part One

Until a few months ago, it was a positive reflection of a company if it had a business jet. Now, it is viewed as a negative, some kind of lavish, wasteful use of corporate dollars. We can thank--I mean blame--The Big Three automakers for that. And we can give an "assist" to congress for continuing to push this idiotic mantra.

I do NOT believe in private jets--I do support business jets. I do not agree in a fat cat executive being flown around in a 747-sized jet all alone. That's wasteful.

I DO believe in utilizing a business jet to bring in more business--to visit clients and to meet new prospects.

Why didn't the congressmen and congresswomen grill the Big Three execs on whether they owned $20k Rolex watches or if they were chauffeured in limos or if they stayed in luxury hotels or if they owned custom tailored suits? None of those extravagances can bring in business or add employees to a corporation.

If Seth can do it, why can't you?

The other day, I reached out to Seth Godin, renown author and strategist on a question. I don't know Seth, but my company did attend a seminar of his years ago, so I took the chance and emailed him a question.

I expected nothing. I even gave him an "out" in my request--I told him I understand if he doesn't respond back. I wasn't even sure the email I had was valid.

Two hours later I had a response Seth. He was polite, respectful.

If a person that has thousands of things going on can respond to a stranger in a short period of time, why can't clients respond to their suppliers? Children to their parents? Corporations to non-profits? Friends to their friends?

Can we make it a point to be respectful and responsive in this high-tech world?


Barry LaBov, CEO
LaBov & Beyond
www.labov.com

Apologizing for apologizing

I recently wrote a post where I bragged about a great leader of a company I know. He took the "fall" for a particular issue at his company and in so doing, showed leadership and inspired his people.

He later let me know that one of his execs saw the post and felt it was not a good reflection of their company because it implied that they had a problem. Without being asked, I deleted the post.

Sad.

How do we show great leadership if we try to hide how we dealt with our challenges?

I still think that great leader is a fine person. I just wish that his company would allow his leadership to shine.

Sad.


Barry LaBov, CEO
LaBov and Beyond
www.labov.com