Generally, there are many possibilities and the potential impact of various combinations that could result from various choices can be mind-boggling. Bob has a knack for simplifying those choices, narrowing down the options and illustrating clear choices. Frequently there is no perfect solution. Sometimes, you can’t fix the company, solidify its future and ensure the livelihood of most of the employees without change that is painful. You can’t please everybody, and you should not try to do so. Here is one piece of free advice for business owners, or managers who are facing difficult choices regarding the people employed in the business: A manager must first decide what is right for the business. His or her ultimate priority is to ensure the success and a viable future for the business. If that decision results in significant career decisions regarding certain employees, then do what is right and fair for the employee. If you need to terminate their employment, do it in a way that is respectful; provide a fair termination package, in consideration of the employees’ contributions in time and effort to the company. To the extent this is true, make it NOT personal. They are still a good person, just not the right person for this company at this time.
With all due credit to Jim Collins: Make sure you have the right people on the bus; there are no free riders; that everyone is in the right seat, and all the necessary seats are filled with qualified people.
Bob enjoys service to colleagues and clients. One of his strengths is to be keenly aware of people’s unique traits; he notices characteristics that distinguish each person from everyone else. He respects the individual and looks for ways to incorporate everyone as a contributor to the organization. Bob believes that people need rewards and satisfaction from their job; and “rewards” does not mean money; it means recognition that your role is important, and that your contributions are appreciated. There is a special feeling of self-worth that comes from knowing that you made a difference.
Bob has many years of varied experience and enjoys sharing those experiences with clients and finding ways to apply that knowledge to solving the issues at hand. The client is typically “stumped”; knows there is a problem but can’t find an acceptable solution. Frequently, Bob can find that solution.