Many of you shared our blog on “The Hill” featuring Raymond Redd and his tenacity to take on cancer and that infamous hill at Bowling Green State University. Thank you for showing the support that you did for Ray. We at Force Management were humbled by the response. We know Ray was as well.
Thank you.
We took the opportunity to share Ray’s story because we thought it was such an awesome example of tenacity and being “uncommon.” We often spend time highlighting best practices for leaders in business. However, sometimes, the best leaders are found outside the company walls. They’re in our communities, far from any boardroom or conference call. They’re often running the hill – without realizing the impact they’re making on those around them.
So, for Veterans Day, we reached out again to Sergeant Raymond Redd. As a longtime community leader and a service veteran, we wanted to hear his guiding principles for leadership, those tenets that served him well beyond the uniform.
Here are five of his best, in his own words:
1. Listen
I earned my degree from BGSU in Communication and if it’s one thing that degree taught me, it’s to listen. You learn not from talking, but from hearing what others have to say. The biggest opportunity for team success is to listen to the troops! They usually know all the answers.
2. Lean on Others
Know your strengths, and don’t be afraid to find others who are strong in areas you are not. Search for others who have capabilities in your areas of weakness. Remember, you don’t need all the credit. Give them props for their skill set and the value they bring to the situation.
3. Lead By Example
I once had all my troops watch me clean the latrine. I wanted them to learn from my example. When I was done, I said, “This is how I expect it to be at all times.” I did this for everything, especially with uniforms. By my showing them what I expected, I provided the “how” that demanded excellence, even if it was in the bathroom.
4. Remember Others
When you start to feel sorry for yourself, physically or emotionally – get in the car and drive to your nearest hospital or nursing home. Spend an hour there. Then, get back in your car and re-evaluate your situation. Remember, there are others who would give anything to be in your shoes.
5. Appreciate What You Have
I believe that God carries you through the tough times. No matter your own beliefs, I have been taught to appreciate my blessings and take nothing for granted. Why? Because all of it can be gone in a blink of an eye. “If God is with you, who can stand against you?”
The best leadership tips don’t have to be complicated. We hope you use those great words of advice from “Sarge” with your own team, and we hope that you’re inspired to take your own hill.
Veteran’s Day is a time to take a moment and remember those who have served our country.
To take a moment to remember their sacrifices.
To take a moment and say thanks.
To Raymond Redd and all the veterans out there who serve - we thank you.
Who’s Doing This?!
Learn more about why Sergeant Raymond Redd inspires us in this blog post.
