One of the findings which, in some ways, presents a bit of a challenge is that many of the great companies focused on first getting the "right people on the bus (and the wrong people off the bus)" before deciding on where to drive it. So, Collins concludes, the answer to the question, are people your most important asset, should be no. The right people are your most important asset.
How do we define the right people if we are not clear on where we are going?
In practice there is probably already a history of what business the organization is in or what it's strengths are so you probably have some idea of where you want to drive it. This may broadly define the type of people you may want on the bus. However, if you are rigorously examining where you should be going and how to get there, you should look closely at whom you involve in that planning exercise. The wrong people will give you the wrong result.
We often make the mistake of insisting people should have industry experience or a background in a certain area whereas there are many examples of people with the right competencies making a successful transition to a new area.
The challenge for existing businesses is this: to carry out effective planning and setting the direction, you need to involve key people. Once the direction is set and objectives identified, the people you need to take you there should become evident.
A workable solution to this is probably to have a clear idea as to what sort of people are required to take the business forward - even though a clear direction has not been set at this stage.
Defining these people may involve identifying some technical skills and industry experience but should also be in terms of other competencies. A useful way of looking at this is to use the Iceberg Model described by Milkovich and Newman in their book "Compensation".
Those elements more easily identifiable are above the water:
Knowledge - Information that a person has in a particular area Skills - Behavioral demonstration of expertise
Those that are under water and can only be inferred by actions are:
Self-Concepts - Attitudes, values and self-image Traits - A general disposition to behave in a certain way Motives - Recurrent thoughts that drive behavior
Psychologists say these three are judged to be the differentiating competencies - critical factors that distinguish superior performance from average performance.
So, getting the right people on the bus before deciding where to drive it must include identifying them and these underwater competencies will be very helpful to cut through the obvious and find real talent that can make a difference.
When you are traveling, an injury or sickness is the one thing that can seem to completely destroy a trip. And since you are in an area that is largely unfamiliar to you, it can seem not only disappointing, but also slightly scary. So what is the best course of action if you get injured on the road? If you are in Durham, North Carolina, doctors are plentiful and sure to help you get back on your feet.
As long as you can make it to the hospital, you know that you are in good hands. But when you get injured away from home, there are a few things you should be prepared for in regard to medical service and health insurance.
The first caution you should consider is whether your health insurance will cover the cost of getting medical attention away from your hometown. Of course you shouldn't deny yourself a trip to the doctor because of this. It's one of those things that you should sort out beforehand, and find out whether the Durham, NC doctors are covered by your health plan. If you have a health insurance policy which only covers preferred service providers, then you are out of luck. You might be able to discuss your travels with your agent, and gain temporary coverage for Durham doctors just in case something happens while you are traveling.
Wherever you are staying, you should always know how to get to the nearest medical center or doctor. Even if you don't have any health conditions and you don't expect any disasters to occur, it is a precaution that should always be taken. Being sick or hurt is nowhere near as bad as being sick and lost to boot. Use an online mapping service wherever you go, and print off a map to the nearest things you may want to access. You can also include grocery stores, auto repair shops, or gas stations on the map. It will make a convenient guide for any needs that may arise on your trip.
In the unlikely event that something should happen, you will be completely prepared to get to the Durham, NC doctor that can help you. But rather than rely entirely on rushing to get medical attention, it is a good idea to be slightly prepared on your own. Bring along a medical kit, and any medication for possible maladies (such as strong allergies). If you have these things on hand for quick self-treatment, you might be able to avoid a trip to the doctor and still remain in perfectly good health.
If you are a frequent traveler, Durham doctors would recommend you get a form of insurance that is more flexible depending on your location. Instead of only covering care from certain doctors of certain facilities, you should pursue an option that will leave you feeling safe and protected no matter where you go. Many modern plans are already equipped with this kind of versatility, but you may be stuck with one that isn't. Discuss it with your insurance providers, and determine whether a switch is in order.
The number one thing you can do to protect yourself while traveling is to be prepared. There are a few good ways to prepare that many experienced travelers have learned to take advantage of. As long as you know how to reach the nearest Durham, North Carolina doctor, and as long as you are prepared for any foreseeable medical problems, you will have an easy and worry-free vacation.
Both Paul Phillips & Andrew Stratton are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Paul Phillips has sinced written about articles on various topics from Diabetes Treatment, Property Investment and Internet Marketing. Paul Phillips is a Director of Horizon Management Group; a specialist human resource management consulting firm. He has over 30 years experience in HR and, while based in Australia, has worked in a number of overseas locations.. Paul Phillips's top article generates over 18100 views. to your Favourites.