Notes

Eminent management scholar Peter Drucker, in considering what makes managers effective, notes that some are charismatic while some are not, and some are visionary while others are more numbers-oriented. But successful executives do share some common practices. They ask "What needs to be done?" rather than "What do I want to do?" They write action plans—they don't just think, they do, based on a sound, ethical plan. They take responsibility for decisions, checking up, revisiting, and changing if necessary. Finally, they focus on opportunities rather than problems. In this exercise, you will consider those common practices of executives to help Isabel McDonald's organization decide whether she should be identified as likely to be successful in the newly created executive position of her organization.

CONCEPT REVIEW:
Now—far more than ever—you will be accountable for your actions and for results. In the past, people at many companies could show up, do an OK job, get a decent evaluation, and get a raise equal to the cost of living and maybe higher. Today, managers must do more, better. Career success is most likely if you are flexible, creative, and ambitious. You will need to learn how to think strategically, discern and convey your business vision, make decisions, and work in teams. You will need to deliver competitive advantage and thrive on change