Good Afternoon,

 

Our hiring freeze should be lifted on July1, 2006. As always, this is only for replacement of existing, filled positions. Any request to fill a position that has not been immediately vacated must have my approval. This requires persuasive justification.

 

New incentives aimed at our most problematic staffing areas are on the way. This was long overdue. Just like the 6% pay raise for security last year, not everyone qualifies. But, overall, this is good for this agency and it should make us all safer.

 

 

As this new idea becomes reality, here is a reminder:

 

Last year, in a newsletter column, I commented on those who are so self absorbed, that they resent the good fortune of others and the agency as a whole. As leaders, we cannot afford to have such a selfish view of the world.

 

However, leadership demands that we go beyond merely avoiding the trap of such, ‘it’s not fair’ whining. Leadership demands that we take ownership.

 

There is an old military anecdote, (actually a short story) entitled, “the damn exec.” Many of you have heard it or read it. (I believe that I have given copies to many of you.) If I can find a copy, I will forward with a later email.

 

The story points out how everybody on board a ship hated the ‘damn executive officer,’ but loved the commanding officer. Seems the XO understood that good leadership also requires ownership or ‘buy-in,’ of the decisions of superiors. As he went about enforcing the CO’s standards, focusing on details and incessantly pushing forward, the officers and crew believed that he was the source of those exacting standards and exceedingly high expectations. In fact, the commanding officer was the real culprit.

 

Taking ownership does not preclude us from voicing our disapproval, suggesting alternatives or making our opinions known in the appropriate setting. However, once decisions have been made, good leaders take ownership in those decisions. Leaders take responsibility for those decisions. They do not play the comfortable role of ‘good guy,’ by agreeing with ever-present critics. They refuse to sacrifice the chain of command by taking the path of popularity and least resistance.

 

At any level of leadership, there are few perfect decisions. Most come down to difficult choices among a number of very good alternatives. The ability to recognize and explain this reality is a good first step toward taking ownership.

 

 

Finally…the legislative session is almost over. I have been out and about a little more often, and I see improvement toward our goal of becoming the best in the nation in appearance, order and cleanliness. This improvement includes cafeterias, kitchens and those pesky out of sight areas such as trash cans, showers, mop closets and storage rooms. I am pleased by this progress. We are becoming more consistent in our pursuit of excellence.

 

Keep pushing.