“Leadership: It’s All about TRUST” February 2009

 An on-line newsletter from Ellen Castro that addresses

Leadership and Life in Times of Great Opportunity

What a perfect time for inspirational leadership!  Inspirational leadership creates a secure today and a bright future of possibilities and success.  The actions that build trust, motivate and inspire include:

• Listen more, talk less. 
• Replace the word “I” for “you.”
• Be more collaborative with every one...build connections and create synergies.
• Use business affirming words.  Words have power.  Instead of saying “cost cutting” which most people hear as “my job is at risk,” to “cost conscious” which implies accountability and makes solid business sense.  Consider using expressions such as “This is the perfect opportunity to show our differential” instead of “We’ll survive this.”
• Make business decisions that benefit others as well as yourself.
• Express a sincere “thank you” to your customer, colleagues and followers.  For without them, you would not exist and thrive.  No person, regardless of how great they think they are, is an island.
• Show humility.
• Exhibit calm confidence by being aware of your posture and body language.  Smile more.  Breathe more.
• Stay aware that each word and action triggers a response that either ignites inspiration or extinguishes it.

Now is the best time ever to build trust and make a positive difference in the lives of others.  Go for it!

Questions for Reflection

Does everyone on my team feel connected and valued?

Have my words and actions been uplifting and inspiring or depressing and draining?

The choice is ALWAYS yours!

Spread the love...it is Valentine’s week!

Have a happy one!

Feel free to share this with a colleague or friend.  Your comments and thoughts are always appreciated … I am always learning.  Until next time, choose wisely.

Ellen Castro is a catalyst for trust and excellence.  She is the bestselling author of Spirited Leadership … 52 Ways to Build Trust on the Job and Tortilla Soup for the Spirit.  Ellen holds an EdM from Harvard University and an MBA from SMU where she currently serves as an instructor for the Business Leadership Center.  Ellen has the great joy to coach, write, speak, consult and teach on three continents and in eleven countries.  She has owned and managed her current business since 1991 with all business opportunities through referrals. It’s all about TRUST, excellence and service!

Ellen’s intent and commitment is to do ALL the good she can, for as many as she can, whenever she canJ!