Readers responded with some interesting comments on the New Year’s resolutions I posted. In addition to some great replies posted on-line, here are some of my favorite comments that came in via email:
3. If you think you’re leading, make sure someone’s following.
- “Number 3 evokes a comical visual.” [from a risk management director at a consumer products company]:
4. Don’t confuse reporting with doing.
Several emails echoed the posted comment that “too much time spent chasing data to report has led to putting off long term strategizing”, including these:
- “I liked #4 a lot as reporting can take an inordinate amount of time!”[VP sustainability, financial firm]
- “I also wish that we didn’t have the loud beat of a CSR/Sustainability report right now – I think we are really on the cusp of getting somewhere but it’s so frustrating to be obligated both internally and externally.” [AVP Corporate Social Responsibility, transportation]
9. Remember both value and values.
This one provoked both agreement and disagreement:
- “I strongly support your suggestions for 2012 resolutions, particularly the focus on values driving value.” [VP corporate social responsibility, apparel]
- “Value/value perspective [particularly interesting], as I do believe that to be the truth – when I have chased one without the other – I have not succeeded.” [CEO, marketing]
- “The one I’m not in favor of is #9 …. I’m a big proponent of sticking to a core set of values that drives all decisions and actions. Your values need to be your ‘rudder’ and there will be times that it results in sacrificing value or $. I don’t see value and values as equals. The old adage – stick to your values carries a lot of weigh in my book.” [VP HSE, manufacturing]
10. Do better on your “work-work balance”.
- “ No 10 is very amusing, through I have a few friends who should regret not spending more time in the office.” [Strategy director, sustainability events]
- “I can certainly do a better job prioritizing work/life balance and I should not be sending emails at this late hour!” [VP corporate social responsibility, apparel]
The biggest challenge came from Wayne Henderson, in a posted comment: “We’ll look for a six month update on progress! Let’s see where we get to in June.”