In Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera, the Phantom who has hid himself, his disfigurement and his true talents in the depths of a Paris opera house, desires the love of the beautiful leading lady Christine. He uses tricks and fear to manipulate Christine and others in an attempt to obtain this. But instead, he is hunted down and captured. Only when his mask is removed and his true self is shown with all his flaws, does he get his true desire: a heart-felt kiss from the beautiful Christine. This story has many parallels to stories of leaders charged with creating change within their organizations. Regardless of what or who you lead – whether it’s a company, a division or a department – if you are responsible for making changes, to be successful it is essential you possess three traits – the Tripod of Trust:

1.Character
2.Competence
3.Clairvoyance   ...more

Workshops and Conferences

InitiativeOne traveled east in January. We started with a two-day workshop in Washington DC, with the Quality One Services Network. We then went to Kentucky for the Kentucky Christian University Business Leadership Conference. We wrapped up the month with the Pennsylvania Association of REALTORS®.

Quality One Services Network is a group of heating, ventilation and cooling companies in Virginia and Maryland. The business leaders were engaged and enthusiastic as Dr. Fred shared how to lead through others and how to lead through a strategic decision frame where Vision, Values and Critical Goals guide decision making. He also addressed the challenges of 3rd and 4th generation family businesses, individual leadership through self reflection and self messaging systems, and attracting and hiring employees in a competitive market.

"With the goal to come up with a leadership program, this was right on target, challenging, stimulating and productive regardless of the size of your company."
      Carl Godwin, Owner
      Northstar Heating and Air Conditioning

KCU School of Business Leadership Conference was a one-day motivational experience led by nationally recognized sport management and business leaders. Dr. Fred joined Reggie McKenzie, Director of Football Operations, World Champion Green Bay Packers, John Schneider, General Manager Seattle Seahawks, Mike Furrey, Head Football Coach Kentucky Christian University and Andy Corley, Managing Director Quadralene Cleaning, in energizing the business leaders in attendance. This powerhouse of presenters spoke on such topics as team building, managing change, long-term planning and organizational culture.

Pennsylvania Association of REALTORS®
(PAR) learned about leading change in their organizations. Dr. Fred taught that effective leaders are those who understand the four C's; Casting Vision, Communication, Conflict Management, Change Leadership. The key to increasing the speed of change in their organization is engaging their thoughtful leaders, being transparent and listening deeply to their feedback on how to fine tune the change plan. Once you focus your energy on giving time, affirmation and attention to the thoughtful leaders your bandwagoneers will be motivated to get "on board" in the change process!

"After Dr. Fred spoke there was a buzz throughout the hallways. Having him speak was definitely a home run for us."
      Brenda Florida - Director of Leadership Development
      Pennsylvania Association of REALTORS®