Weekly Thought – July 18, 2017

Fred often thought out his counsel to younger ones who asked much like the Apostle Paul (Fred’s way of referencing him) wrote to Timothy. He outlined ways to mature for character development was uppermost in his thinking.

Encouraging them to grow in grace and walk in a manner worthy of their calling is our heart’s desire as we engage with college students. Please pray for our work at BWFLI.

Wisdom for the Workplace

One of the first principles of a successful job is stated simply: Do accept the first job as a complete challenge, and not just a step to the next one. Do the job well – better than anyone else, if possible. Add something to the job which didn’t exist before you accepted it. Another way to add value is to establish a better way of doing the job than the current method. Make it easier for someone to come behind you and learn it more quickly.

Talk and think about this job until you have mastered, focusing on where you are, not where you want to be until it is appropriate. Remember, this first job well done becomes your platform for the next step. You are probably thinking this is self-defeating and short-sighted. After all, you hear all the time to constantly focus on where you want to be. I disagree. Keeping your eyes and head on the job at hand and mastering it prepares you for the next step (or even steps).

You know I love golf, so think about it this way: The pros hit one golf shot at a time – each shot follows one after another. There is planning, certainly. And this planning affects the shot chosen. But once it is, everything else must be shut out, and the present shot becomes all important. Do you see how this applies to your job?

Get results where you are. Then look around to see what’s next. Your first job will be somewhat like learning to drive a car. You will have to concentrate very much on the mechanics at first. You won’t be looking at the view. As you become more proficient you can enjoy the experience of driving. But if you never master the mechanics, you will never become a masterful driver.

It is the same with a job. As you learn your way it becomes easier to do the job at hand and then experience the view of the terrain ahead. Also, you will be noticed as one who is capable and productive – a winning combination every time. Be cautious about talking about the next steps too early and too widely. If you get the reputation for always looking to get ahead it can be interpreted as selfish motivation, not participation in the progress of the business. It is hard to gather much support if you are viewed as only looking out for yourself.

Take each step seriously. And as the boy scouts are told, “Leave your campsite cleaner than you found it.” Prepare by learning everything you can in each position for you will undoubtedly find that those lessons are well-integrated into the next rung on the ladder.

This week think about: 1) Who in my circle of influence needs to be reminded of these ideas? 2) How am I doing at focusing where I am? 3) What encourages me to make a strong, workable career plan?

Words of Wisdom: “Remember, this first job well done becomes your platform for the next step.”

Wisdom from the Word: “Whatever you are doing, work at it with enthusiasm, as to the Lord and not for people.” (Colossians 3:23 NET Bible)

Weekly Thought – July 11, 2017

Fred experienced all areas of business organization. As well, he served on boards of businesses and ministries which gave him a broad perspective. Continuing his counsel to the young college student, Fred talks about the issues of aligning with large corporations. These comments were written in 1976. The business environment has changed, but not surprisingly, many of the principles still apply.

Prayerful and financial support for the Breakfast With Fred Leadership Institute is greatly appreciated. We are preparing for the national conference in 2018, looking forward to helping students answer the “what’s next” question.

The Big Business Alternative

When young business majors push me for the “best way” to get ahead quickly, I usually suggest “go with a large, well-managed corporation for experience. After a few years of learning excellent systems, then go to a troubled, smaller corporation in a place of responsibility where your experience and knowledge can solve their problems. You will have the opportunity to be recognized and rewarded proportionately.” This is general advice and should be taken as such. I tell them they need to work out the “small print” on these plans, because there will be some.

Now a few words about national or international corporations. This is where the power is. Do you remember Willie Sutton the bank robber? He was asked, “Why do you rob banks?” His answer: “Because that is where the money is.” In the same way, going to a large corporation is going where the power is. If you want to be a big fish, get in a big pond. At least there you will have a fair shot.

An officer of a large corporation has power with many in difference categories: executives, employees, suppliers, politicians, and customers. The fringe benefits are not only financial; they are also personal. This is one of the great drivers for corporate executives. Frankly, I wouldn’t give a nickel for an executive who didn’t understand the use of power. It is necessary for action.

In a corporation, power divides into two types: Direct and Indirect. Direct is for the line executive and indirect for the staff. If you want the power to be the decision maker – the one to say yes or no -then you want direct power. If you want the power to influence decisions (and decision makers), then indirect power can be most satisfactory. Both carry much responsibility. Personally, I have always felt very responsible for influencing men in key positions. My management consulting business was built on the principles of seeing the operation, the talent, and analyzing where the “key log” was to bring solutions to problems. Even though I wield influence, the ultimate decisions and responsibility belong to the leaders.

Select the power you want. Along the way you will probably experience both. This will give you ample opportunities to see where your talents and natural drives lie. Always remember, though, the use of power is to facilitate action which will result in positive outcomes. Power held for personal gain only will create an unhealthy (and usually short-lived) environment. Choose where you can make the greatest contribution.

This week think about: 1) Where am I most effective? 2) How have my work experiences influenced my current situation? 3) Do I prefer direct or indirect power?

Words of Wisdom: “Frankly, I wouldn’t give a nickel for an executive who didn’t understand the use of power. It is necessary for action.”

Wisdom from the Word: “However, Ahikam son of Shaphan used his influence to keep Jeremiah from being handed over and executed by the people.” (Jeremiah 26:24 NET Bible)

Weekly Thought – July 4, 2017

Fred enjoyed fireworks. He took the family out on the Ohio River to see the celebration from Coney Island. A too-short rope on a brand new anchor curtailed the entertainment. One quick throw and it was gone – anchor and 3 feet of rope unattached to the boat. Life is just like that sometimes. Happy July 4th to all.

(This week we continue the conversation with a college student who is considering various business alternatives. This one is an opportunity for entering a family business).

Business – Family Style

Let’s consider your going into a family business where you are not one of the family. It can be very comfortable, secure, and also very, very frustrating. If you choose to operate as “one of the family,” it can be pleasant. However, remember the advantages always go to family members first.

If the patriarch who built the business is still active, he generally plans for a son or close relative to carry on when he lets go – if he ever does. No one ever says he has to retire. A friend of mine grew very dissatisfied by working in a family business. Promises were made to him that he would be the next President when the founder retired. It didn’t happen. He spent years counting on that assumption. By the time a change and he wasn’t given the leadership, he was too old to go out and begin again. Consequently, he ended up very frustrated yet very competent.

Another challenge is the family member who is raised with privileges in the business which are not earned, but inherited. This creates an unfair, and certainly unequal, chance for promotions. The other threat is getting cross-wise with members of the extended family. This does not just apply to active members, but all those who feel “deserving” of a voice in decisions. And in-laws can create problems, as well.
I know I have sounded rather dire, but I want you to be realistic about these situations. Certainly, there are some excellent family-owned businesses which expand the leadership roles. These are very good places to work and grow.

A word: any promises or stock, equity positions, or leadership roles should be in writing. If you bring additional expertise which is not available within the family circle you can find a place to contribute and be rewarded. But be wise and protect yourself against the vagaries of family businesses.

This career path will take more patience than you expect. So, don’t go in without financial and emotional reserves. Do your research. Study the history, the board make-up, the mission statement, and the involvement of direct and indirect family members. Understand their expectations. And protect yourself against assumptions which can cause bad feelings and frustrations.

Think about: 1) What would I say to this college student about family businesses? 2) How could I counsel other young men and women about career choices? 3) How did I “find my path?”

Words of Wisdom: “But be wise and protect yourself against the vagaries of family business.”

Wisdom from the Word: “I will walk in the way of integrity. When will you come to me? I will conduct my business with integrity in the midst of my palace.” (Psalm 101:2 NET Bible)

Weekly Thought – June 27, 2017

Fred studied business from an organizational viewpoint, focusing on principles. In counseling college students he discussed different types of business models, helping them to set their career course. This Weekly Thought shares his ideas on entrepreneurship.

Entrepreneurial Endeavors

Very few people can operate their own business, especially from scratch. I have great respect for those few who have taken a very small business and developed it into a sizeable organization.

Research shows less than 5% can be successfully self-employed. The early failures are usually attributed to undercapitalization. I think a better reason is “pilot error.” After all, why was the business started with inadequate funding? Usually wishful thinking and poor planning – what I call pilot error.

When I left a large corporation to form my own company I had planned and saved for 14 years. However, I found two very difficult problems facing me:

1) I was required to wear all the different hats necessary to get the total job completed. As a corporate officer I had a general knowledge of the entire operation, but had specialists to call on. In my own business I had to learn to do things I had formerly delegated. This changed my management style.

2) The second change was psychological. I was now using my own money whereas as a VP of a national corporation I was using (and diligently managing) their capital. Money became very personal. This is a shift many cannot make who have tried to move from corporate to self-owned. Many executives cannot accept this anxiety. They can invest corporate funds, but not their own. This results in nervousness and missed timing.

Often corporate executives say they want to be in business for themselves so they become their own boss. Poor reason. In fact, the customer is the boss of us all and we should never forget that.

I made several misjudgments early, but the biggest surprise was my lack of control of my time. The freedom I thought I would have as owner evaporates – the responsibilities for the business control your time. You can’t run a business like a hobby – particularly in the early years. It is a tyrant.

Naturally, there are some great advantages: you can accumulate more equity; you can design policies according to your philosophical bent; you make decisions without being questioned or sanctioned.

If you want to be in your own business, I suggest you start extremely small, and grow as you become properly capitalized and experienced. Keep your ego in check and don’t try to become too big too fast. I have seen it ruin many capable people.

If you have trouble making yourself work, stay out of your own business. A corporate friend asked me: “You own a business and a boat, how do you make yourself go to work?” It never dawned on me because business is the means by which I express my talent, not boating.

Think about: 1) How did I decide which form of business to enter? 2) Where do I express my gifts? 3) What is my dream job?

Words of Wisdom: “Business is where I express my gifts, not boating.”

Wisdom from the Word: “Warn them of the statutes and the laws, and make known to them the way in which they must walk and the work they must do.” (Exodus 18:20 NET Bible)

Weekly Thought – June 13, 2017

Fred’s study of questions gave him an ability to spur conversations and to motivate others to action. A young man’s question: “Can I be a Christian and still be successful?” evoked a 39 page response from Fred. In typical fashion, he began the letter with a question: “Why do you want to get ahead?” This week’s thought is a short excerpt from his lengthy answer.

BWFLI is planning a conference for fall, 2018 bringing students together for an in-depth focus on mentoring, networking, and living out our faith. Please begin praying. Thank you.

Questions to Ask

As I seek to answer the questions you posed for me about being successful I keep asking myself “why does he want to get ahead?” Always remember: it is good to ask why before you ask how.

Behind every plan of action and every commitment of time and energy should be a solid philosophical base. So here is my question for you: “Why get ahead?” Climbing the mountain just because it is there isn’t a satisfactory reason. It is a platitude, but not an adequate motivation.

Do you want to get ahead because you have the unscratchable itch to win – to come in first – to have others look up to you – to gain respect? Do you want the things and positions money can buy? Believe me, it is unfortunate but true that in America position, prestige, and power can be bought.

Are you eager to get ahead to please your parents, impress your friends, or teachers? Do you feel God gives you talents and gifts for which you are responsible? (Think seriously about this one for it will have great bearing on the direction you take).

Your answers will have very little to do with how far you go. Are you surprised I say this? However, it will have a great deal to do with your mental and spiritual attitude as you go. Those closest to you will see, feel, and be affected most by this. Often when I am with friends who have become “successful” but unhappy, I feel they are living out the verse, “He gave them their desire, but sent leanness of soul.”

They are constantly irritated, never enjoying the fruits of success, and always moving on as if goaded by the spirit of their discontent. They are always coming to the truth, but never really finding the truth. There is no quiet center to their life; no eye of the storm in which they can lay down and sleep until the activity starts again. They have “quiet desperation” but long for “quiet adequacy.” They want a time of enjoying their options from their success.

Think about: 1) What makes me want to get ahead? 2) How clear am I on the gifts God has given me? 3) Who helps me keep my motivations worthy?

Words of Wisdom: “Always remember: it is better to ask why before asking how.”

Wisdom from the Word: “When the queen of Sheba heard about Solomon, she came to challenge him with difficult questions.” (1 Kings 10:1 NET Bible)

Weekly Thought – June 6, 2017

Fred received regular calls and letters from those who valued his counsel. He never answered with pat phrases, clichés, or shallow answers. He carefully considered his answers. His responsibility to those who asked resulted in written material which still helps us.

Our BWFLI season wrapped up this Spring. Please pray for those who graduated, others who are seeking employment, and our school staff spending their summers preparing for next fall. Thank you for your consistent support. Your gifts of encouragement, financial resources, and team participation allow us to continue “stretching and blessing the next generation of leaders… to the glory of God.”

Older to Younger

(This is an excerpt from a letter written to a young businessman who asked Fred: “Can I be a Christian and still be a success?”)

I greatly appreciate your thoughtful letter. Your questions have been asked by business majors in more than 25 colleges and universities where I have lectured. They are important – and can be answered. I want to give you my thinking. I want it to be helpful.

Certainly I’ve seen individuals without integrity get promoted into high corporate positions and others get immensely rich using questionable methods. Yet, as long as corporate success and wealth have been reached by men who have not exchanged their souls, there is no conflict. You must understand the way of integrity and accept the price.

I believe in working for success much more than praying for it. Pray for maturity; work for success. My mentor, Maxey Jarman told me: “If a thing needs doing, it can be done honestly. If it can’t be done honestly, then it doesn’t really need doing.” Often dishonest methods are simply a shortcut to what could be proper goals. If the goals are honest, then the means and methods can also be honest. I hardly believe there could be proper goals with no proper means for reaching them with full satisfaction.

Let me illustrate: There is a choice of ways to get into a ball game. The proper way is to buy a ticket. You can then relax, and enjoy the game with your integrity intact. However, another way is to climb the fence or crash the gate. Some prefer the anxiety of this way. It is a “something for nothing” – and some believe it is the same with quick, though questionable, steps to sudden success. Both see the game, but there is a big difference. One pays their way with dollars; the other pays their way with their character.

As we begin our discussion of success, let’s be clear that success isn’t defined by wealth. The important principle “Success is using your talents and gifts to their highest advantage and contribution.” I often say it this way: “Success is the ratio between talents given and talents used.” Money may come with this, or it may not.

Think about: 1) What lesson am I learning from a mentor? 2) Who is benefiting from my life experiences? 3) When have I sacrificed my character for short-term gain?

Words of Wisdom: “I hardly believe there could be proper goals with no proper means for reaching them with full satisfaction.”

Wisdom from the Word: “The one who conducts himself in integrity will live securely, but the one who behaves perversely will be found out.” (Proverbs 10:9 NET Bible)