Because they pretend that the challenges of leadership are rational and tactical, rather than emotional and conversational. Many leaders believe that if they just “pull the right levers,” the organization will move in the right direction. But the most critical factor in the success or failure of any plan is whether conversations with the leader have some impact on what people do. It’s during those conversations that people decide how to apply their time and attention.

There’s another problem. Most plans are organized and communicated according to marketplace logic. But people don’t listen to marketplace logic; they listen for meaning and purpose. Attention can’t be bought. Attention is rich and complex because it comes in many forms: time commitment, recognition, guidance, caring, assistance in new skills. Before any interaction, ask yourself, “How do I want to make people feel?” Put yourself in their shoes. The role of a leader is to create an experience that will inspire people to take action.

Marvin D. Strong

 Lakeplace.com Director of Business Development

218-692-6003 (office)

 218-821-9726 (cell)

REALTOR®,

 E-Pro

MLS Board of Directors

 Technology Chairman GLAR The Brainerd Real Estate Blog

July 11, 2010

Dear Marv:

I just wanted to thank you again for the professional way you handled our search for a lake home. For anyone who cares to read this I can say that Marv was extremely professional and courteous throughout the entire procedure and took charge when things were not running according to plan. Marv’s dedication ran beyond closing, when most realtors move on, not Marv.

One particular incident stands out, which defines Marv’s character best. We closed the financing for our lake home in March and the day we were to move in we found that the gas for heating had run out and we had some plumbing freeze. Marv got up in the middle of the night and drove 50 miles to handle the problem. He got emergency gas service out on a cold winter Saturday night to fill the tank and relight all appliances and paid for that and all plumbing damage out of his own pocket. He took care of finding and bring the plumber in to work as I had to return to the Twin Cities. The delivery man from Lakes Gas even commented on Marv’s going the “extra mile”.

I will not hesitate for a moment, if I get the opportunity to recommend him to a potential client. Marv is the epitome of professionalism.

Sincerely,

David Murphy