Page 203 - Everything I Know About Business I Learned

Communications

Sometimes the battles bordered on the ridiculous. One year, an
executive took exception to a region that had two of the same
publications going to one office. It was a waste, he said, arguing
that by having one subscription and sharing around the office, the
region could save money. This dialogue went on for 20 minutes,
all over a $15 subscription. Considering the number of issues that
challenged the regional budgets, it seemed time could have been
better spent. It was an example of how silly even our leadership
team could be at times. I stored that one, hoping to keep it as a
reminder of how frustrating stubbornness could be in a situation.
Still it was a lesson in being prepared to support and defend—
or learn to compromise. In what amounted to great forums for
debate, huge arguments sometimes ensued both within the exec-
utive ranks as well as with the region’s defending themselves to
the group. Everyone was exposed, and we saw again that it was
okay to challenge, even though these discussions were often
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heated. At times, it was like a scene from the gladiators, as each
side tried to gorge the other with its stated positions on a topic.
We also gained insight as to what our neighboring regions were
doing well and what could be shamelessly stolen. Actually, it
was a fun process, but required that I knew everything that
could possibly be thrown at me.
As the budget process fell on my lap of responsibility, I had
to know that entire book. This meant doing my homework, and
it drove me to learn aspects of the budget and line items that I
normally would not have. I did not want to be embarrassed. I
needed to know my facts and articulate those well—essentials
in communicating effectively.
As difficult and painful as this process was, I believe it
allowed the participants a rare opportunity and access to all of
the company’s top management. And, it presented a unique
opportunity for many of us within the regions to showcase
before this distinguished group. It worked well for everyone to
get to know each other.