Is “Entitlement Mentality” Holding You Back?

During a recent presentation I gave based on DISC behavioral studies, I discussed the need for a subordinate to adjust his or her personal communication style to that of their boss in order to build rapport and gain influence.  The question was asked “why should I have to adjust my style?”  I said because one on one presentations or any other “idea selling” is no different than “Presentation 101″ – you must tailor your delivery and message to the audience in order to be successful.  When I asked politely how “communicating your way is working for you” several co-workers chuckled to her embarrassment.  My questioners face told me that insisting on “her way” had not been fruitful. 

Why did this person think that pitching her idea without consideration of the behavioral style and preferences of her boss was sufficient?  Why did she get mad and curse her boss (I learned later) thinking that “they didn’t get it” when she wasn’t successful? I blame the infestation of “entitlement mentality.” 

Honoring our long-lost warriors

I had the pleasure today to sit next to and meet Sergeant First Class Oscar Rosales on a Delta flight this morning from Honolulu to Atlanta. He was escorting the remains of a Korean-war soldier -a corporal- to Arlington cemetery. SFC Rosales was a gentleman, professional soldier and the Corporal would have been proud to have him as his escort. The Delta aircrew did their part too, in reminding the rest of us to remain seated as he and our long-fallen soldier departed. It’s a marvelous thing that our Government still works to bring our military’s remains home. It was an honor to witness this part of that soldier’s journey back home after so many years. It’s a day that should make any American proud.

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