By Ed Deeb
Editor-at-Large
July 28, 2011
Recently, I read Adam Bryant’s column in the New York Times where he interviewed Barry Salzberg, global chief executive of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, about his important leadership lessons (May 21, 2011).
Salzberg recalled one of the firm’s partners teaching one of his early training classes in the 1980s. He said the partner talked about The Five P’s: Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance. He went on to say that here it is in 2011 and that he still guides his leadership style by the five P’s.
During the interview, Salzberg also said when you meet with your staff avoid surprises, always tell it like it is, involve others in discussions, no need to blindside anyone at a meeting, and always do what you say you will do.
He also mentioned that getting feedback is important for both discussion and decision making purposes, and don’t resist change.
Salzberg also provided some recommendations for hiring people. He said you should look for writing skills, experiences, values, priorities and personality.
For the new employees, they should brand themselves, be unique about something, and be known for something. They should also be proud of their work, but never satisfied.
Obviously over the years his leadership lessons have paid off.