Leading in Turbulent Times

Boards, corporate executives, lawyers, consultants and rising stars have sought CEO Perspective Group's services to manage the ever-increasing demands of globalization, competition, scarce resources, technology and economic changes which began in the late 1990s. Advice and assessments were continually refined to address corporate malfeasance, natural disasters, terrorism, workplace violence, faulty products, major illness and other crises. Soder urged directors and executives to prepare for the unexpected in "Leading When It Counts," the lead article in a special Directors & Boards Boardroom Briefing on Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery in Spring of 2006. As she noted, "Hope isn't a strategy for anyone, certainly not for those in charge." Subsequent events underscored the message and advice. With the fall of Lehman Brothers in 2008, a new era of volatility began.

Articles, a Webcast, client seminars, targeted assessments and other services were quickly developed to meet current and future client needs. Strategic affiliations were strengthened and amplified. More specifically, a practical guide for clients and associates was developed giving 7 essential steps; including "do what you say you will do" and "avoid the echo chamber." This was widely distributed in financial and other institutions as a helpful guide. Janet Walsh of the Profitability Channel interviewed Soder for a Thought Leaders segment, "Leading in Turbulent Times."

One of our new services is a Turbulent Times workshop to help management teams ascertain the immediate and longer term actions specific to their business that are most needed to meet new demands head on. Top and senior management grappling with compensation issues are finding advice and guidance from Joel Ospa; his understanding of international issues and the psychology of compensation is particularly helpful. Rapid promotions and major new responsibilities have created a need for Stan Silverman's guidance on international and operational matters. Stan's guidance to independent board members is most beneficial with current and future governance changes.

Targeted assessments focus on three to five areas of concern to an employer, saving time and money without sacrificing quality. The CEO Perspective Group Assessment will also precisely evaluate an executive's abilities on criteria including crisis management, multitasking, handling pressure, flexibility, and working with difficult people.

Boards and top executives are utilizing the Group's Confidence Review for an executive or management team to ascertain areas of focus, and confirm management actions and approach. This "progress report" ensures that executives are handling things well during this critical time. As the SEC increasingly concentrates on risk management, we anticipate this review to be highly demanded.