OUR Leadership BLOG

Brandon Buck | 5/15/2017

As leaders, we are constantly faced with tough decisions. Some of these decisions are life altering, (like moving, marriage, kids, new job, investing, selling, layoffs, etc.), while others are simple, (what should I eat, clothes to wear, etc.). However, the main point within all these decisions is the purpose behind the decision. Were your actions based on unguided ambitions or on a focused vision and sound values? In an era, where financial growth and social perception determine a company or individual’s success, many leaders are tempted and encouraged to violate their values. This violation of ethics, can and will destroy trust, create a feeling of guilt, and possibly lead to legal ramifications.

Dr. Paul Metler | 5/3/2017

Faith is a core tenet of leadership.
 
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
 
If I expect you to follow me, then I am asking you to have faith that I will lead you to a place that is safe, that is good, perhaps even much better than where you are. I’m asking for faith in what is not yet seen. I’m expecting you to take a risk.

Brandon Buck | 5/1/2017

As parents, people, leaders, etc. we are constantly striving to live a purposeful life. We aim to have a vision, create a plan and then get into action; however, how many of us have a vision and a plan for our daily interactions with our children? As parents, we are given the greatest gift that anyone can receive and with that, we have been entrusted with the greatest responsibility of shaping their souls. For many of us, we recognize this responsibility but are so busy with our own daily grind that we simply wing it. We go through each day without an end in mind, no plan with which to make decisions or a productive way to build our children’s character. Instead, we run ourselves ragged and parenting ends up becoming a nuisance instead of a great adventure.

Abbey Strachota | 4/27/2017

The NFL Draft is an exciting time of year for everyone. Fans are following the draft to see who’s coming in to “their team”, or what kind of tricks does their secretive GM have up his sleeve this year? There are others scouting for their fantasy football roster. Schools and communities also rally around local players who are hoping to get a call. It’s a great week for sports.

Brandon Buck | 4/10/2017

In an ever changing, connected and competitive world we seek trust more than ever. We want to trust our politicians, our boss, our spouse, and our kids; we want people to trust us. Now, to obtain trust or to be trustworthy, we, as leaders, have to take responsibility and make sure we are walking the talk!

Dr. Paul Metler | 4/6/2017

People watch what you do. They watch with the sound off.
Seth Godin

How do you describe leadership? What are the first words that come to mind?

Dr. Paul Metler | 4/6/2017

Would you intentionally hire a new employee that is not trustworthy?
 
Of course not. That’s an easy question to answer.
 
Here’s a better question.
 
When you hire a new employee, do you have a straightforward conversation about the behaviors that create healthy trust? If not, why not?

Dr. Tim Brown | 4/3/2017

Recently, I was able to check off another item on my bucket list. My wonderful wife, Jen, purchased a ticket for me to attend an NCAA Men’s Basketball Sweet 16 game to watch my beloved West Virginia Mountaineers. Although the outcome was not what I had hoped for, I had an incredible experience. As I watched, I was reminded of the importance of a game plan.

Abbey Strachota | 3/28/2017

Most of us will never know what it feels like to win a national championship or a Super Bowl, however – we’ve all been on a team either athletically, professionally, or simply within our family. Our Final Four may have been running a half marathon, giving a big presentation, landing a huge client (and then delivering on that huge client!), starting a family – the list goes on and on.

Dr. Paul Metler | 3/23/2017

As millions tune in for tip off, March Madness is in full bloom. These are teams that have practiced together, travelled together, played together and now they will focus their collective energy on the opportunities before them. The NCAA basketball championships are in full view. Surely there are lessons to be learned about great teamwork. As you watch the madness, open your eyes and ears and take note of these sixteen qualities that help teams elevate their performance. How evident are these qualities in your team? Choose one for discussion in your team meetings.