Last Words from FGC, But Not From Mike
On December 1, 2009, I officially begin my new job as Business Development Director at Batdorf & Bronson Coffee Roasters. So, Fresh Ground Consulting is closing its “doors” and this blog will no longer be active. I will continue to write at my personal blog, aboutferguson.
For this final FGC blog, I thought I would just briefly write about my list of operating principles. They are on my mind right now, as I plan my transition into my new job.
The list, as it appears below has evolved since the first version, which I created nearly six years ago. The idea came from The David Allen Company. A few things have been added and the wording of several principles have changed as my experience deepens, and I reframe them to fit the context. When I was working the Specialty Coffee Association of America, it was “members” rather than “clients,” the word used until today, or “customers,” as it reads now.
For me, maintaining this list is similar to having written values as a company. During the rush and tumble of work life, we are pulled in many directions by competing priorities and commitments. This list serves as a touchstone. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or uncertain, I usually find that I am not aligned with one or more of my operating principles. During a time of change, like I am experiencing now, I refer to them several times a day. They don’t tell me what to do next, but they do remind me of how to go about doing whatever is next.
I am unbelievably excited about the next chapter in my coffee career, in large part, because Batdrof & Bronson is a company whose approach to business is aligned with my personal operating principles.
Mike's Operating Principles
-Honor commitments to such a degree that those to whom promises are made feel highly valued.
-Exceed expectations for quality and service.
-Demonstrate audacity without arrogance.
-Be known for integrity and fostering a culture of accountability.
-Bring energy and thoughtfulness to managing the workload.
-Practice servant leadership as a manager.
-Be assertive and diplomatic participant in project management and planning the growth of the company.
-Be an example to customers of productivity, efficient teamwork, and sound business practices.
-Engage in ongoing and open communication within the company and with customers.
-Question, learn, and teach, teach, teach.
-Recognize that vital relationships and sincere connections are at the heart of every success.
-Regularly invite feedback and demonstrate listening.
-Initiate change with grace, and accept change gracefully.
-Guard fiercely the confidentiality of the company and customers and honor that confidentiality at all times, without compromise.
