Consider This

Robert Stevenson’s Thoughts on the Pursuit of Excellence


The Art of Conversation

March 16, 2024

by Robert Stevenson

The art of being a great conversationalist has a lot more to do with listening than speaking. Remember, you already know about yourself, so talking about you will seldom gain you anything. The secret to being a fantastic conversationalist is to remember: “It's not about what you say, but how many times you can say 'uh-huh' and 'oh, really?'” Now, that may sound silly, but it really makes a lot of sense. If you can get them talking and keep them talking, you will be noted as the great conversationalist even though you will have said very little. So, saying, “uh-huh” and “oh, really,” will keep that conversation moving along. I heard it once said: "To be a great conversationalist, listen twice as much as you speak, and then you'll be heard twice as much as you listen." I really like that quote.



Employee Turnover

March 9, 2024

by Robert Stevenson

I don’t understand why companies don’t do more to retain talented employees. According to Gallup, the expense of replacing an employee can vary significantly, spanning from one-half to two times the employee's annual salary. This range accounts for various factors contributing to turnover costs, such as recruitment expenses, training costs, lost productivity during the transition period, and potential impacts on team morale and productivity. That is a lot of money to walk out your door all because you did a lousy job making them want to stay.



The Destructive Power of “Sometimes”

March 2, 2024

by Robert Stevenson

Using "sometimes" to qualify actions can indeed undermine one's professional reputation and career. This simple word introduces doubt and inconsistency, while eroding trust and confidence in an individual's capabilities and character. OUCH!



I have conducted many programs over the years on change, with my favorite program title being, “If You Don’t Like Change – You are Going to Hate Extinction.” I warn, I harp, I plead, I caution, I alert … I hope people are listening because, even though the program title is funny, it is also very true.



 The Ripple Effects of Kindness

February 18, 2024

by Robert Stevenson

Real, sincere, genuine kindness rests within the gesture of giving with NO expectations of getting anything in return for yourself. Furthermore, kindness is a universal language that promotes understanding and tolerance while promoting harmony and cooperation.



Do What You Do Best

January 19, 2024

by Robert Stevenson

LEGO, the renowned Danish toy company, was established in 1932. Over nearly 90 years, its iconic bricks became synonymous with the toy industry's success. However, in the early 2000s, LEGO faced a severe financial crisis, flirting with bankruptcy and endangering its brand. This crisis resulted from diversification into unsuccessful ventures, competition from electronic toys, and significant manufacturing inefficiencies. Simply stated … along the way … they lost their way.



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