My silence is not by choice
March 7, 2010
Having only one working vocal chord and a wonky brain keeps me silent at the board committee. It is not how I used to be.
For years I acted as if I was the only person who could get things done. My mantras were: If I want it done right, do it myself; While others struggle with problem definition, I already have the solution. I arrive at my first board event post-brain surgery feeling vulnerable and inadequate.
Today, I have to rely on others. I have to count on them to have a body that is more able and a mind that works faster.
During the meeting my fellow directors probe management. They pose the questions I think and ask many more. The only thing missing from the meeting is the sound of my voice.
My silence is golden. Can I learn to love my silence as much as did the sound of my own voice?
How Many Questions
February 27, 2010
I miss the second board meeting since my diagnosis with a brain tumour. The first occurred just before my surgery, when I was in no mental shape to do more than send regrets. For this one I determine to prepare in my usual way. I started to make notes and then realize I can’t even read my handwriting. I switch to a keyboard – quci8ly reoao8z8 … You see what I mean?
No more could I construct one question per report and wade into every debate. Instead I resolve to limit myself to where I add unique value. Three questions and I am done.
Post script: I receive the feedback. Only one question added unique value. Maybe this brain tumor will make me a better director.
What is “the governance gap”?
February 20, 2009
The Governance Gap is the divide between the free-wheeling approach of an entrepreneurial founder and the in-depth level-headedness of the Board. Learning to embrace both sides of the gap is the secret to corporate success, regardless of the size or maturity of your organization.
Who is Susan O’Dell?
I’ m an entrepreneur who passionately believes in my vision and unequivocally believes in my ability to bring it to life, having successfully founded and sold a winery, a retail consultancy and a corporate relocation service in the last twenty years.
I have recently become a certified corporate director (ICD.D), who sits on industry and private equity boards. Now it’s up to me to ask the tough questions, keep a focus on long term strategy and delve into every possibility – including the one that the entrepreneur is wrong.
I am embarking on a journey in which I need learn to embrace both my entrepreneurial and director personas – to leverage the governance gap.
What will you read?
Stories and anecdotes that inspire me as I think about business issues from both an entrepreneurial and director perspective.
Real conundrums and questions I face in my role on boards and as an advisor to entrepreneurs.
Honest exploration about why it’s impossible to legislate wisdom or integrity.
Who will benefit from this blog?
The entrepreneur who wants to embrace the potential of a board.
Directors of private, family and small cap corporations.
Any investor who craves the financial rewards that come from betting on an exciting entrepreneur, while hoping someone is exerting at least some measure of control.
The Butteryfly Customer
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Let Susan O'Dell and Joan A. Pajunen show you how to keep your customers coming back without having to lose profits in their book "The Butterfly Customer."