Same Style, Different Brand

Isn’t it refreshing when we find another pair of jeans that fits just right? It might not be the same brand, or the same price range, but the fit is exactly what we were looking for.
Today I met with a like minded individual from TLNT.com (http://www.tlnt.com/ ).

Both isolated in South Florida, without many “industry” workers down here we decided to meet for coffee. It was a nice chance to work outside the realm of email, twitting and LinkedIn.
Our conversation centered around business and possibilities of working together to better the field of research and talent. How refreshing to meet with someone who has “the greater good” in mind, and not their own gain.

So how does this tie in with Blue Jean Leadership? It’s simple, knowing when you have found another leader, with the same style and fashion as you makes for great opportunities.
When leaders can begin to put their own desires aside and begin to look at the whole picture instead of just a single “pair of jeans” collaboration begins.

Deriving from the Latin word collaborare, the word is made up of com which means ‘with’ and ‘labore’ which means ‘to work’. And ‘to work with’ is, really, the brutally simple meaning of the word. It’s about laboring together.( http://bit.ly/fuHpU5)

By working together, collaborating, two leaders can begin to conquer those issues that do not fit in their organizations culture or business strategy.

Collaboration is easier than ever with today’s social media and technology. Vendors are now offering suites that allow employees to collaborate globally and frequently.

If we stop and think about true collaboration and the passions behind those of us who lead, it makes me wonder…

If we are looking for those like-minded individuals to share with in our innovation and thinking, what should our relationship with competitors look like?

Check me out :http://bluejeanleaders.com/2011/12/06/same-style-different-brand/

Bootcut or Flare?

It was 4:46pm. I was leaving my office wearing comfortable flats, skinny leg jeans and a stylish button down. Coffee cup in hand and bag over my shoulder. As I looked down the hall 3 suites down another lady was locking her door. Heels, dress slacks and a denim blazer.

A couple thoughts went through my head. It dawned on my how greatful I am for my casual office dress code and comfortable attire, but appreciated her ability to wear jean in a different way.

Jeans-you can dress them down or dress them up...Just like Leadership.

We all have a leadership style (whether you want to lead or not), its an ornate part of our being. Goes back to the old thought of "Can Leadership Be Taught?" We each have a fit and style of Leadership. However, with technology, social media, globalization and multi generational workforces being able to adapt your style is key to emerging and aspiring leaders. Thus Blue Jean Leadership is born.

Leadership styles- how do we dress them up and how do we dress them down?

Just like the lady down the hall. We both had denim on, but our style was different. Were all leaders with core leadership competencies that can lead small, medium and large organizations through innovation and succcess.

Let's begin focusing on how that style can be adpated to fit the culture and "fashionable fit" of our organizations.

So this is the first of many posts about my experience as an ambitious leader learning how to dress up and dress down my leadership style...

Always staying true to my perfect fit but learning to add a little flare when needed :)