Evolution – Try It

When people speak out against the theory of evolution, it’s because they argue that the world is too remarkable and perfect to have been created by chance.
But that’s to miss the point of how evolution works.
Evolution isn’t simply a natural consequence of being around for a long time, you don’t evolve just by being there.
It’s a genetic lottery.
Changes occur by accident and nature determines that it’s a good thing.
The newly evolved species forges ahead, and its ancestors simply have to adapt to the changed world.
The business world is no different.
Our world changes almost daily, and there are all kinds of opportunities to take a genetic step forward.
When you find something that works, repeat it.
Leave the rest of them dragging their knuckles.

Sitting Next To Nellie

There's an old saying in the world of people development, that originated in the manufacturing industry.
'Sitting next to Nellie' was, and still is, seen by many as the most effective way of training or upskilling,as the cool kids say, someone new to a role.
The idea was, one would sit alongside the most experienced member of the team (take a bow Nellie) and simply observe. After a couple of weeks of watching and mimicking, they were ready to join the production line.

Now, the world in which we live and work is far more complicated. And yet, many people still make the assumption that a little Nellie-watching is an appropriate way to develop other people's talents. Identifying and preparing the next generation of leaders involves much more than passive observation and a little mimicry.
So make sure your business is embracing the most effective ways to bring people on, through practical experience, well-structured training and effective feedback.
Because no-one wants to be stuck in a business full of old Nellies.