How does the saying go? "Speak softly…

… and carry a big stick; you will go far." This is an African proverb made popular by Teddy Roosevelt. Roosevelt described his style of foreign policy as "the exercise of intelligent forethought and of decisive action sufficiently far in advance of any likely crisis". Take a moment and let that digest. It's pretty rich -- and not limited to foreign policy. Let's consider the five components of his diplomatic approach and how it might apply to our modern day workplaces.

(1) "It is essential to possess serious military capability that would force the adversary to pay close attention." Have readied staff, strong data, a fortified infrastructure and make sure you've done your homework. Be the organization that has it together and has their house in order. Let your competition see your competence.

(2) "Act justly toward other nations." Let's act justly toward our competitors. There's no need to squeeze out the competition or belittle others. Fight fair. Compete fairly.

(3) "Never bluff." Pretty straightforward here. Do not bluff or exaggerate your skills or fake experience or oversell yourself. You will eventually be found out. Trust in business is hard to gain and nearly impossible to recoup once it's lost. Instead hone your skills, increase your experience and perfect your craft. Know your limitations and bid within your capabilities.

(4) "Strike only when prepared to strike hard." Most of the time being fortified with information, approach and strategy is enough (i.e., the big stick). If you are forced to face the competition or act aggressively make sure you're armed with the right information and the right approach to get your point across and/or win the battle.

(5) "Be willing to allow the adversary to save face in defeat." This is hard for some people. There's no need to rub the enemy's face in it or put salt in the wound. Lean into strong character here. Be willing to provide mercy and grace to those you go toe-to-toe with.

We all like to #win in business but let's develop a strategy and an approach that will work out well for us and as the proverb states, 'let us go far.' Strive for business policy that finds you winning more than losing and allows you to sleep well at night.

-Mindy Muller, CFRE, President/CEO of CDP

#business #strategy #experience #work #people #infrastructure #sleep #communitydevelopmentprofessionals