19 May 2017

Worst Person in the World?

For years, Keith Olbermann would use his TV soapbox for nominations to this honor.  A long time ago, I had my own candidate.

One particular boss was the epitome of all things despicable.  A bully, a bigot, a misogynist, a homophobe, self-absorbed with nary a speck of humility, and totally certain in his misguided personal agenda.  With the unknowing protection of his superior, he successfully trashed the good intentions and honest ambitions of many who were unfortunate enough to report to him.  I was not spared.

With the kind assistance of confidants in my HR department, I was able to fashion what I thought to be the best exit strategy under the circumstances.  I was the first of many to seek safer refuge.  Others who stayed suffered greatly, until the day came a few years later when our nemesis was finally undone by some unknown transgression.

As it was with many of my former coworkers, I held on to a most unsatisfying and unproductive grudge.  I had fantasies of being asked back to fix many of the misguided policies and procedures now dragging down the organization.  Not surprisingly, that never happened.

Some years since those fateful days, I have fallen into an enjoyable, albeit alternative, career.  The consulting advise of No Left Turn, to a large extent, is guided by the hard lessons I learned by watching and experiencing the misdeeds of my tormentor.

Now comes a most ironic twist.  A few days ago I was informed that the man died of complications brought on by early-onset Alzheimer's disease.  All sorts of feelings have been stirred.  Satisfaction.  Remorse.  Puzzlement.  Regret.  Unease.  Was he as bad as he was because of the illness?  Although I doubt it, one will never know for sure.  There's a quote: "Living well is the best revenge."

I wish I had paid heed sooner.  May he rest in peace.

20 March 2017

I am Woman! Hear me Roar?

Helen Reddy I am not.  So, roaring may be in doubt.

The Connecticut Chapter of Professional Women in Construction continues to offer timely and thought-provoking programs, and their carefully prepared dinner meetings are legitimate destinations for people in our related businesses.  Each year, certain themes are repeated to intentionally mark the trends we make an effort to follow; and, for good reason, interest is high.

On the evening of Tuesday April 4th, the traditionally well-attended "Meet the Construction Chiefs!" will be repeated; and once again, it will be my privilege to moderate this discussion by 7 outstanding leaders.  You can see the PWC flyer for the event at http://www.pwcusa.org/chapter-specific/CT01/events/680414793.pdf.  There, you will find a link to the registration form; or go straight to 
http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07edu6vmq8fcd0931e&llr=wahybieab.

If you've been before, you know what it's like.  But if this is new, let me reassure you.  The group openly welcomes newcomers and visitors, and likes to have both men and women in attendance - my impression is that the split is often 50/50.  Even while at the podium, I have always learned something.  If you're anywhere nearby on that evening, please come and join us.

See you there!


19 February 2017

Yikes! Tuition Hikes!

I recently put out a No Left Turn newsletter pondering the future of higher education. (See it at https://goo.gl/wy6CM) In that newsletter, I spoke of the increases in college and university tuitions that have far exceeded current CPI inflation levels.

There are many assumptions and preconceptions about why this may be the case, but they don't always jibe with reality. A recent article posted on fivethirtyeight.com in my opinion is very insightful. Check it out at https://goo.gl/kLyxvz.

I wonder when there will be a change of heart in our state legislatures?