The Blog

Nature Lesson in Leadership
Leadership Ian Whitfield Leadership Ian Whitfield

Nature Lesson in Leadership

Like many of us, I find myself spending weekends getting the house ready for Calgary’s two weeks of summer. This year I have had two pesky robins show up who lay claim to a prime piece of real estate on our deck. Usually, I’m happy to share the land with them, however, not this land. I have done everything imaginable to try and deter them, to no avail.

Read More
Lead like a NASCAR Driver
Ian Whitfield Ian Whitfield

Lead like a NASCAR Driver

Most of the leaders we work with are impatient for results. In most cases this is not a bad thing, they bring energy, they drive processes forward and the good ones do it in a fun and inspiring manner. They are the kind of people who lead with the throttle fully open and the pedal to the metal. However, here’s a little secret. 

Read More
Traction vs Distraction
Ian Whitfield Ian Whitfield

Traction vs Distraction

We have all found ourselves losing traction in regard to important, though most often non urgent projects. This brief tip may give you permission to drift away from your plan on occasion.

Read More
Leaders are Readers...sometimes
Communication Ian Whitfield Communication Ian Whitfield

Leaders are Readers...sometimes

I recently read another respected leader who was touting the idea that “Leaders are Readers”. The general idea is that all great men and women leaders are reading about new ideas, ways of improving themselves and their businesses. So, why would I have a beef with this noble, and frankly, right idea, the fact is my own father used to repeat this phrase to me growing up.

Read More
Fifty Shades of Red: The Dark Side of Tactical Addiction
Ian Whitfield Ian Whitfield

Fifty Shades of Red: The Dark Side of Tactical Addiction

One of our primary assessment tools is the Birkman Method® which measures many aspects of ones personality and preferences. The assessment uses four colours to describe key aspects of work and life. Blue represents the planners/thinkers; Green are the communicators/outside sales; Yellow are process/systems people and Red represents those who bring energy and action to the team. All four colours are necessary to have a healthy and productive team, however all four colours have their own short comings in certain contexts. 

Read More
The 7% Factor
7% factor Ian Whitfield 7% factor Ian Whitfield

The 7% Factor

One of the biggest reasons executives don't invest in their and their teams executive development revolves around the idea that it is difficult to measure. The lack of urgency in this area is often a result of not knowing how much it costs to do nothing to nothing to address poor leadership.

Read More