Leadership Requires INTENTIONAL Active Listening

Good News: Active Listening is a Learned Skill In a fast-paced and increasingly remote and digital world, communication has taken various forms, from texting and email to video calls and social media. With the rapid evolution of our work environment, communication needs to be seen in the prism of the art of active listening. We…

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Twelve Steps to Bonding with Your Members

Unlike traditional banks, credit unions have a mission to serve their members, not shareholders. This fundamental difference makes building solid and lasting relationships with their members possible. To make members love their credit union, focusing on delivering exceptional service, fostering trust, and offering financial products that meet their needs is essential. Below, I will explore…

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Should YOU Consider a Fractional Executive?

To thrive in today’s ever-evolving financial landscape, credit unions must adapt, innovate, and strategically manage their operations. One innovative solution that credit unions are increasingly turning to is the fractional executive. Fractional executives are experienced professionals who work, typically as contract employees, part-time or on a project basis, to provide specialized expertise and leadership. In…

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You Got that Job. Now Stay Humble!

Maybe you’ve observed this situation. Someone gets promoted to a role they have aspired to attain for years. Almost instantly, their communication takes on a new tone, and maybe arrogance creeps into their behaviors. Several years ago, I read an article about someone who had taken over my previous job. In the article, my successor…

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A Culture of Accountability, the Pathway to Strategic Success

Building a culture of accountability within a credit union is crucial for fostering transparency, responsibility, and overall success. Here are some steps and strategies to help you establish and nurture a culture of accountability: Building a culture of accountability takes time and consistent effort. It’s a collective journey that involves everyone in the credit union…

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To Get a Seat at the Table, Become a Strategic Thinker

Becoming a strategic thinker involves developing a specific mindset and skillset to analyze situations, make informed decisions, and plan for the future holistically and effectively. Here are some steps you can take to cultivate strategic thinking: Remember that becoming a strategic thinker is a journey that requires intentionality, dedication, practice, and adaptability. Over time, you’ll…

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When Certifications and Soft Skills Collide: Navigating the Hilarious Maze of Career Advancement

In the wacky world of career advancement, a cosmic dance exists between certifications and soft skills. It’s like watching two rivaling dance troupes—one comprised of highly qualified robots armed with certificates and the other filled with quirky humans armed with charm and wit. Think of River Dance competing with Freestyle Jazz Dance. The result? A…

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Lost in Leadership Land

A Hilarious Guide to Leading Without Core Values. Welcome, fellow adventurers, to the treacherous and comical world of leadership without any core values. Buckle up because we’re about to embark on a journey full of confusion, chaos, and questionable decision-making. Get ready to laugh your way through this hilarious guide! The Drifters’ Creed: Without core…

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