Similarly to this week's parsha Noach, Hashem decides to destroy the world and save Noach and his family via an ark the size of 1.5 US football fields, I have decided to rethink this blog.
After almost 2 years of writing the posts on this site, I have decided to take some time to regroup.
While at times the posts received a decent reading, many times it was reduced to under 40 readers.
In an effort to make the posts on here more substantial, and more well read, I am taking the time to look at different avenues to promote the posts, as well as review what made some of the posts better received than other posts.
The plans for this site and the information include some analytic studies and overall writing review.
I appreciate everyone that has been reading and stay tuned for a return in a few weeks. Chanuka time is my goal or Jan 1.
There is also a book publishing aspect which I am investigating.
Any comments and advice is appreciated.
Shabbat Shalom
Showing posts with label #torahbiz. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #torahbiz. Show all posts
Friday, October 4, 2013
Saturday, July 27, 2013
The Tough Get Going...How?
When the going gets tough, the tough get going. But how do they do that? Where does one get the strength, after plowing through work or client meetings for hours on end, how do you find the strength to just do it?
When it seems like the project will never finish, when it looks like there is no assuaging the executives whims, or when you think you will get out that few minutes earlier on Friday and then do not, what keeps you going?
This week's pasrha reminds us that although the problems mount and the times look dark, look back on the good times and the great efforts that you, your team, with hashem's help, got you through it all.
In 7:17 it says:
Gain strength from your innermost thoughts and know it is not just you going through this. In a more business way, there is no I in team, they go with you and help you and do everything they need to do for you. Your team is made up of you God and your people, how could you not succeed?
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Parsha Eikev in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 7:12-11:25
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
When it seems like the project will never finish, when it looks like there is no assuaging the executives whims, or when you think you will get out that few minutes earlier on Friday and then do not, what keeps you going?
This week's pasrha reminds us that although the problems mount and the times look dark, look back on the good times and the great efforts that you, your team, with hashem's help, got you through it all.
In 7:17 it says:
Gain strength from your innermost thoughts and know it is not just you going through this. In a more business way, there is no I in team, they go with you and help you and do everything they need to do for you. Your team is made up of you God and your people, how could you not succeed?
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Parsha Eikev in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 7:12-11:25
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, June 28, 2013
Changing the Rules
In business we create guidelines, best practices and more similar types of rhetoric designed to assist people in their roles and responsibilities.
What happens when we are wrong? We define a best practice and someone raises the idea that you are wrong, what do you do? Most normal people would adjust your practice and move along after giving the item some thought.
In this weeks parsha we learn this from the discussion between the daughters of Zelophehad and Moshe and Hashem. The law had been stated that inheritance passed through the male side of the family. In this case there were only daughters after their father died, thus creating an imbalance among the tribes.So in 27:6-11 we see the answer:
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Parsha Pichas in the book of Bamidbar, Numbers 25:10-30:1
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
What happens when we are wrong? We define a best practice and someone raises the idea that you are wrong, what do you do? Most normal people would adjust your practice and move along after giving the item some thought.
In this weeks parsha we learn this from the discussion between the daughters of Zelophehad and Moshe and Hashem. The law had been stated that inheritance passed through the male side of the family. In this case there were only daughters after their father died, thus creating an imbalance among the tribes.So in 27:6-11 we see the answer:
Stand up and believe in what is important to you and when rules or laws are defined that exclude someone or something, try to find a way to make it inclusive.
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Parsha Pichas in the book of Bamidbar, Numbers 25:10-30:1
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, May 10, 2013
The 3,000+ Year Old Analytics
Numbers. No way around it, lots and lots of numbers. Analytics have finally come to roost, but they were in fashion 3,000 years ago or so.
Want to know how many people to feed for a dinner? At sea? You need numbers.
Try to understand the latest viral video? You need to count very high numbers.
Why are numbers so important?
This week's parsha speaks about the numbers of people in each tribe, in each family and more. The quantity in this case is to prove a sizable nation was roaming the desert. When it would be time to settle the new country, the size of the tribe would make a difference obviously, but what else could we be learning from these numbers?
The numbers are not specific down to the last one, but rounded to a flat 10 or 100 or 1,000. In a similar way to how we would portray the details in an infographic. While the details are not perfect, the overall point is made, the numbers do not lie, in this case.
In business, make your case with real data, but use general points of reference because that is how the people think. Aside from Pi, what other numbers come to mind that include parts of a number or even come as a 23,549 type answer?
Pricing gurus have known for years that a price of $.99 is better to say than $1.00 because it is about your purchasing dollars. However we also know memory works better with numbers they recognize and can relate to or are linear.
Next time you are doing a presentation or creating an infographic, keep in mind what you want people to remember about your numbers and you will go far.
Parsha Bamidbar in the book of Bamidbar, Numbers 1:1-4:20 It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Sunday, May 5, 2013
Devoted to What?
Sacred cows. Everyone has them, some are more sacred than others. In every business there exists these ideals that never get conflicted and always stay apart from the business side.
Where did this idea come from, that something could be so untouchable? What is the benefit to us to maintain them?
This week's parsha, the latter half of bechukotai, ends with the following from 27:28:
If you have devoted something to Hashem it is put aside, all alone, to exist solely for this exercise in thanks.
Naturally few people put anything aside at their office in such a fashion, but how many documents or directives are almost written in reverential stone? Who says a tech person can not call the client and discuss something of a sales nature? Likewise who says the sales people should not provide help in areas they have a background?
Too often we find ourselves stuck in the middle between what we want to do but something is in our way. This obstacle is there to remind us that there is a better way to accomplish our task and we need to be respectful of why these rules exist. It can be for the greater good of the people and the office if you have some lines of respect within the organization. The Torah upholds these offerings to bring you good tidings that would otherwise not be to your benefit.
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Parsha Behar, Bechukotai in the book of Vayikra Leviticus 25:1-26:2 26:3-27:34Where did this idea come from, that something could be so untouchable? What is the benefit to us to maintain them?
This week's parsha, the latter half of bechukotai, ends with the following from 27:28:
28. However, anything that a man devotes to the Lord from any of his property whether a person, an animal, or part of his inherited field shall not be sold, nor shall it be redeemed, [for] all devoted things are holy of holies to the Lord. | כח. אַךְ כָּל חֵרֶם אֲשֶׁר יַחֲרִם אִישׁ לַיהֹוָה מִכָּל אֲשֶׁר לוֹ מֵאָדָם וּבְהֵמָה וּמִשְּׂדֵה אֲחֻזָּתוֹ לֹא יִמָּכֵר וְלֹא יִגָּאֵל כָּל חֵרֶם קֹדֶשׁ קָדָשִׁים הוּא לַיהֹוָה: |
If you have devoted something to Hashem it is put aside, all alone, to exist solely for this exercise in thanks.
Naturally few people put anything aside at their office in such a fashion, but how many documents or directives are almost written in reverential stone? Who says a tech person can not call the client and discuss something of a sales nature? Likewise who says the sales people should not provide help in areas they have a background?
Too often we find ourselves stuck in the middle between what we want to do but something is in our way. This obstacle is there to remind us that there is a better way to accomplish our task and we need to be respectful of why these rules exist. It can be for the greater good of the people and the office if you have some lines of respect within the organization. The Torah upholds these offerings to bring you good tidings that would otherwise not be to your benefit.
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It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, April 19, 2013
Honesty is the Best Policy
Don't lie to customers. Really, do not lie to customers.
No matter how many times I say this to sales people, trainees or employees, they still do it.I could ask if they are Bible believeing people but I doubt that is the correct way to handle this.
When you have good news, you usually say it to the person's face directly. When you have bad news you try to make it sound better, which is understandable. However, lying will not make the bad news any better, it should only make it all worse.
Sometimes the simpler way is the better way. Some may argue that in parsha Kedoshim are a different form of the Ten Commandment but let us just say these are reiterating some known laws.
| 11. You shall not steal. You shall not deny falsely. You shall not lie, one man to his fellow. | יא. לֹא תִּגְנֹבוּ וְלֹא תְכַחֲשׁוּ וְלֹא תְשַׁקְּרוּ אִישׁ בַּעֲמִיתוֹ: |
Keep this in mind for your employees and your customers. Confess when you do something incorrectly and be upfront on subjects or solutions you are not well versed. Your clients will appreciate it much more knowing you were honest with them.
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Parsha Acharei Mot-Kedoshim in the book of Vayikra 16:1 - 18:30 and 19:1-20:27
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, March 8, 2013
Impressions are so Fleeting
Ever wonder where the idea of sugar coating something came from? Possibly the term came from this week's parsha. Throughout the entire parsha which explains in immense detail how the Mishkan or Tabenacle, The Ark of the Covenant, menorah, altar and curtains and other instruments were created, in almost every case the Torah also says the items were overlaid in copper, silver or gold. Before you ask where did these nomads in the desert have all these jewels, metals and more, remember when they left Egypt they asked for their wages and personal belongings back from the Egyptians.
Why should everything be covered by these metals? And what is the Torah telling us for our needs and future?
In some cases, for the altar as one example, it makes sense as gold and silver would melt under the heat but copper, which was used to cover the altar has a much higher melting point. Science aside, we learn that in people's eyes, appearance is important.
When we go on interviews or meet someone for the first time, many decisions about the person met are decided unconsciously in under a minute. Appearance must be important and the grandeur which is alluded to for some of the items is even more pronounced when dripping in gold and jewels.
In time of course all of these items would disappear, through battles or lost in time or hidden as some speculate, but they were built to be temporary housing for Israel while they were in the desert. In time the Temples would be built, and destroyed, which would have greater items.
When you look at business methods and the choices which are made, there is so much effort put into the opening meetings and documents with the expectation we will "fill in the blanks" later. There is also the belief that as the project grows and strengthens we will produce better documentation and representation of ourselves.
That is the plan, but is not always the outcome. Just like in time all of the items designed in this parsha disappeared, so to will the desire to impress and eventually have us revert to a stronger foundation with less excitement. We should strive to maintain the magic of the early days of the project and keep up the appearances that remind our customers why they work with us.
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Parsha Vayakhel in the book of Shemot Exodus 35:1 - 38:20
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Why should everything be covered by these metals? And what is the Torah telling us for our needs and future?
In some cases, for the altar as one example, it makes sense as gold and silver would melt under the heat but copper, which was used to cover the altar has a much higher melting point. Science aside, we learn that in people's eyes, appearance is important.
When we go on interviews or meet someone for the first time, many decisions about the person met are decided unconsciously in under a minute. Appearance must be important and the grandeur which is alluded to for some of the items is even more pronounced when dripping in gold and jewels.
In time of course all of these items would disappear, through battles or lost in time or hidden as some speculate, but they were built to be temporary housing for Israel while they were in the desert. In time the Temples would be built, and destroyed, which would have greater items.
When you look at business methods and the choices which are made, there is so much effort put into the opening meetings and documents with the expectation we will "fill in the blanks" later. There is also the belief that as the project grows and strengthens we will produce better documentation and representation of ourselves.
That is the plan, but is not always the outcome. Just like in time all of the items designed in this parsha disappeared, so to will the desire to impress and eventually have us revert to a stronger foundation with less excitement. We should strive to maintain the magic of the early days of the project and keep up the appearances that remind our customers why they work with us.
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Parsha Vayakhel in the book of Shemot Exodus 35:1 - 38:20
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, March 1, 2013
How do You Introduce Yourself?
Did you ever write your own introduction to give to someone before you were presented with an award or as a guest speaker so they could describe you to the audience or have you ever "just" been introduced? Presumably at one time we all have been in this situation. But what have we learned from it?
The first time you hear someone else introduce you in a way you feel did not properly express you or your role, your natural instinct is to not have that happen again. You sculpt a brief introduction of yourself for the next time.
We know that the first impression is the lasting one. Your introduction should be the best foot forward. Likewise when you introduce your team, do you portray them in the best light or just, Jack from Development?
When Moshe is tasked with building the Tabernacle for God, he is pitched, by God, to use Bezalel. As seen below:
This is a pretty strong introduction for Bezalel to get the work done. We should all be introduced this way, especially our staff who make us look better always.
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Parsha Ki Tisa in the book of Shemot Exodus 30:11 - 34:35
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
The first time you hear someone else introduce you in a way you feel did not properly express you or your role, your natural instinct is to not have that happen again. You sculpt a brief introduction of yourself for the next time.
We know that the first impression is the lasting one. Your introduction should be the best foot forward. Likewise when you introduce your team, do you portray them in the best light or just, Jack from Development?
When Moshe is tasked with building the Tabernacle for God, he is pitched, by God, to use Bezalel. As seen below:
Chapter 31
| 1. The Lord spoke to Moses, saying: | א. וַיְדַבֵּר יְהֹוָה אֶל משֶׁה לֵּאמֹר: | |
| 2. "See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, | ב. רְאֵה קָרָאתִי בְשֵׁם בְּצַלְאֵל בֶּן אוּרִי בֶן חוּר לְמַטֵּה יְהוּדָה: | |
| 3. and I have imbued him with the spirit of God, with wisdom, with insight, with knowledge, and with [talent for] all manner of craftsmanship | ג. וָאֲמַלֵּא אֹתוֹ רוּחַ אֱלֹהִים בְּחָכְמָה וּבִתְבוּנָה וּבְדַעַת וּבְכָל מְלָאכָה: | |
| 4. to do master weaving, to work with gold, with silver, and with copper, | ד. לַחְשֹׁב מַחֲשָׁבֹת לַעֲשׂוֹת בַּזָּהָב וּבַכֶּסֶף וּבַנְּחשֶׁת: | |
| 5. with the craft of stones for setting and with the craft of wood, to do every [manner of] work. | ה. וּבַחֲרשֶׁת אֶבֶן לְמַלֹּאת וּבַחֲרשֶׁת עֵץ לַעֲשׂוֹת בְּכָל מְלָאכָה: |
This is a pretty strong introduction for Bezalel to get the work done. We should all be introduced this way, especially our staff who make us look better always.
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Parsha Ki Tisa in the book of Shemot Exodus 30:11 - 34:35
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, February 8, 2013
Don't Lie to Customers
A basic belief when hiring employees is that they are honest and above board about everything they do. Unfortunately too many times the good managers are fooled by the deceptive employee. I would venture that bad managers probably are okay with a few close to the edge employees, but for the rest of us it can be a painful experience.
Perhaps out of fear for lawsuits or monetary damage or customer loyalty, the manager chooses not to fire the employee once they find out they are not such a great person. Ethics are just one issue, but lying is another. Many times in the course of projects fingers get pointed and eventually someone will say "it wasn't me" or "I never touched it" or my favorite from support "didn't change a thing" only to find out in the end, indeed they did do something but were trying to avoid the punishment so to speak for their incorrect efforts.
But if you are their manager what do you do? Do you call them on this? You should. Not in front of the client of course but afterwards you need to deal with this at the first sign of it happening. If you do not, you may not have the benefit to change it later. Once you let it slide you have set the precedent and that is not a good precedent to set.
In this parsha, we read the following line from 23:1 :
Sounds simple enough but the lines get blurred in business often. If the customer knows your team lied, you face up to it and move the person from the project. To do anything less would invite distrust on you and your company or brand. Clients respect you more when you deal with situations internally. They may have their own ideas about what happened, but as long as they believe you stopped it, they will continue to trust in you.
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Parsha Mishpatim in the book of Shemot, 21:1-24:18 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Perhaps out of fear for lawsuits or monetary damage or customer loyalty, the manager chooses not to fire the employee once they find out they are not such a great person. Ethics are just one issue, but lying is another. Many times in the course of projects fingers get pointed and eventually someone will say "it wasn't me" or "I never touched it" or my favorite from support "didn't change a thing" only to find out in the end, indeed they did do something but were trying to avoid the punishment so to speak for their incorrect efforts.
But if you are their manager what do you do? Do you call them on this? You should. Not in front of the client of course but afterwards you need to deal with this at the first sign of it happening. If you do not, you may not have the benefit to change it later. Once you let it slide you have set the precedent and that is not a good precedent to set.
In this parsha, we read the following line from 23:1 :
| 1. You shall not accept a false report; do not place your hand with a wicked person to be a false witness. | א. לֹא תִשָּׂא שֵׁמַע שָׁוְא אַל תָּשֶׁת יָדְךָ עִם רָשָׁע לִהְיֹת עֵד חָמָס: |
Sounds simple enough but the lines get blurred in business often. If the customer knows your team lied, you face up to it and move the person from the project. To do anything less would invite distrust on you and your company or brand. Clients respect you more when you deal with situations internally. They may have their own ideas about what happened, but as long as they believe you stopped it, they will continue to trust in you.
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Parsha Mishpatim in the book of Shemot, 21:1-24:18 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, December 28, 2012
Let Me Tell You How It Will Be...
We survived the end of the world last week, oddly enough Yaakov in this week's parsha says he will tell his children about the end of days.
Chapter 49
Impressive thinking here by Yaakov. He is dying any day now and in order to get all of his children to visit he decides to lay the "I can see the future" line? Must be more to it than this, otherwise we would end up with all types of people saying the end is nigh.
Could it be Yaakov was trying to say that dying is not the end? Maybe he was trying to bring closure to some of the projects that got lost along the way? He brings up Simeon and Levi's problems with authority and anger management, he compares numerous kids to animals and shows his obvious liking for certain children.
All in all, not much different than most people's end of year reviews. You get the good, the bad and the ugly sometimes to come out. Contrary to how it seems, many people have a very long memory, especially when slighted however harmlessly it may have been meant at the time or circumstances.
If however we go through life always harping on the things people did wrong, one may never have any friends, or employees. Perhaps it is this inability to forgive and forget that prevents world peace or at least some peace.
Sometimes in the "bad" reviewed items there is another side to the story and there are more possibilities to move along. Just because someone else has fewer items to dwell on does not make them better people or employees.
You love your children, no matter what they do or say or how they act, even at the worst of times. They however truly never understand this until they themselves have children. This was part of what Yaakov was saying, as a parent to his kids and how employers should think about their employees.
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Parsha Vayechi in the book of Bereishit, 47:28-50:26 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Chapter 49
1. Jacob called for his sons and said, "Gather and I will tell you what will happen to you at the end of days. א. וַיִּקְרָא יַעֲקֹב אֶל בָּנָיו וַיֹּאמֶר הֵאָסְפוּ וְאַגִּידָה לָכֶם אֵת אֲשֶׁר יִקְרָא אֶתְכֶם בְּאַחֲרִית הַיָּמִים:
Impressive thinking here by Yaakov. He is dying any day now and in order to get all of his children to visit he decides to lay the "I can see the future" line? Must be more to it than this, otherwise we would end up with all types of people saying the end is nigh.
Could it be Yaakov was trying to say that dying is not the end? Maybe he was trying to bring closure to some of the projects that got lost along the way? He brings up Simeon and Levi's problems with authority and anger management, he compares numerous kids to animals and shows his obvious liking for certain children.
All in all, not much different than most people's end of year reviews. You get the good, the bad and the ugly sometimes to come out. Contrary to how it seems, many people have a very long memory, especially when slighted however harmlessly it may have been meant at the time or circumstances.
If however we go through life always harping on the things people did wrong, one may never have any friends, or employees. Perhaps it is this inability to forgive and forget that prevents world peace or at least some peace.
Sometimes in the "bad" reviewed items there is another side to the story and there are more possibilities to move along. Just because someone else has fewer items to dwell on does not make them better people or employees.
You love your children, no matter what they do or say or how they act, even at the worst of times. They however truly never understand this until they themselves have children. This was part of what Yaakov was saying, as a parent to his kids and how employers should think about their employees.
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Parsha Vayechi in the book of Bereishit, 47:28-50:26 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, December 7, 2012
Do your own Marketing not via proxy
You can not solve a problem and get credit for it usually when working with clients. They expect the most from you and you should in turn provide it. But at what point do they recognize in you more than you provide?
Often times during a project there are points of failure that become success stories later. Sometimes it's a group effort and other times it is because one person could do what no one else could accomplish.
Many times the one person would like credit for their effort but it is a team effort and their benefit comes later, hopefully.
This week's Parsha Yosef, Joseph, finds himself in an Egyptian prison performing dream interpretations for the baker and wine steward of Pharoah. While he explains each man's dreams he also asks of the wine steward to remember him when he is set free. The common discussion is around why did he not have faith that Hashem would protect him and take him out of prison.
Chapter 40:14
However, if you understand business you see the nature of people is not to bring up their failures to their leadership. Thus the wine steward would not remind Pharoah of his time in prison for Yosef's benefit because it may lead to bad tidings for himself. Put your trust in others when warranted but think about the situation and if it would help you or hurt you to ask for the help.
Instead look to help yourself in your own way. Produce a document with your name on it,send an email explaining what you did, in your weekly meeting raise the awareness of how you tackled the issue. It will get noticed more often in this way than if you rely on others to do your marketing for you.
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Parsha Vayeishev in the book of Bereishit, 37:1-40:23 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Often times during a project there are points of failure that become success stories later. Sometimes it's a group effort and other times it is because one person could do what no one else could accomplish.
Many times the one person would like credit for their effort but it is a team effort and their benefit comes later, hopefully.
This week's Parsha Yosef, Joseph, finds himself in an Egyptian prison performing dream interpretations for the baker and wine steward of Pharoah. While he explains each man's dreams he also asks of the wine steward to remember him when he is set free. The common discussion is around why did he not have faith that Hashem would protect him and take him out of prison.
Chapter 40:14
| 14. But remember me when things go well with you, and please do me a favor and mention me to Pharaoh, and you will get me out of this house. | יד. כִּי אִם זְכַרְתַּנִי אִתְּךָ כַּאֲשֶׁר יִיטַב לָךְ וְעָשִׂיתָ נָּא עִמָּדִי חָסֶד וְהִזְכַּרְתַּנִי אֶל פַּרְעֹה וְהוֹצֵאתַנִי מִן הַבַּיִת הַזֶּה: |
However, if you understand business you see the nature of people is not to bring up their failures to their leadership. Thus the wine steward would not remind Pharoah of his time in prison for Yosef's benefit because it may lead to bad tidings for himself. Put your trust in others when warranted but think about the situation and if it would help you or hurt you to ask for the help.
Instead look to help yourself in your own way. Produce a document with your name on it,send an email explaining what you did, in your weekly meeting raise the awareness of how you tackled the issue. It will get noticed more often in this way than if you rely on others to do your marketing for you.
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Parsha Vayeishev in the book of Bereishit, 37:1-40:23 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, September 28, 2012
The Bragging Demons of Business
When you look around in business and want to emulate others, how do you decide who to emulate? Is it a business tycoon? Sports coach? Movie or TV star (their real life or portrayed character)? Author? Politician?
Do you emulate the good and the bad parts? We try not to, but as an example take Steve Jobs. He could only accomplish what he wanted by being very demanding in a way few people would accept from anyone. Yet he is one of the people most influential on other s in life and business.
But what if all of this is wasted? Maybe it's a great idea today, but not tomorrow, to emulate these people.
In the parsha this week, which is the song of Haazinu, Moshe elaborates on what leads people astray. He put it very well in 32:17-18:
The idea that following other gods or demons and be in love with the newest "thing" was not a good trait to have in a person. Forgetting your God or your parents and family, is not the best way.
Who would think that 3,000 years ago the problem of people chasing after the latest thing already existed? Can you imagine someone in a tent or make shift building saying they were going out to buy the newest idol because their old one was still okay just not new?
Often times I wonder what brilliance people think they will gain by getting the haircut of a movie star or the latest gadget. When I was younger we wanted to get bragging rights over our friends for somethings we did but as I got older that seemed pretty pointless. Evidently, not everyone came to the same conclusion that i did or the Torah did.
Aspire to greatness, acquire knowledge so you are not ignorant, share what you learn so others may benefit.
Shana Tova and Leshana Haba Beyerushalayim
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Parsha Haazinu in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 32:1-32:52 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Do you emulate the good and the bad parts? We try not to, but as an example take Steve Jobs. He could only accomplish what he wanted by being very demanding in a way few people would accept from anyone. Yet he is one of the people most influential on other s in life and business.
But what if all of this is wasted? Maybe it's a great idea today, but not tomorrow, to emulate these people.
In the parsha this week, which is the song of Haazinu, Moshe elaborates on what leads people astray. He put it very well in 32:17-18:
17. They sacrificed to demons, which have no power, deities they did not know, new things that only recently came, which your forefathers did not fear. יז. יִזְבְּחוּ לַשֵּׁדִים לֹא אֱלֹהַּ אֱלֹהִים לֹא יְדָעוּם חֲדָשִׁים מִקָּרֹב בָּאוּ לֹא שְׂעָרוּם אֲבֹתֵיכֶם:
18. You forgot the [Mighty] Rock Who bore you; you forgot the God Who delivered you. יח. צוּר יְלָדְךָ תֶּשִׁי וַתִּשְׁכַּח אֵל מְחֹלְלֶךָ:
The idea that following other gods or demons and be in love with the newest "thing" was not a good trait to have in a person. Forgetting your God or your parents and family, is not the best way.
Who would think that 3,000 years ago the problem of people chasing after the latest thing already existed? Can you imagine someone in a tent or make shift building saying they were going out to buy the newest idol because their old one was still okay just not new?
Often times I wonder what brilliance people think they will gain by getting the haircut of a movie star or the latest gadget. When I was younger we wanted to get bragging rights over our friends for somethings we did but as I got older that seemed pretty pointless. Evidently, not everyone came to the same conclusion that i did or the Torah did.
Aspire to greatness, acquire knowledge so you are not ignorant, share what you learn so others may benefit.
Shana Tova and Leshana Haba Beyerushalayim
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Parsha Haazinu in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 32:1-32:52 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, September 21, 2012
When Sales and Management Collide
It happens quite often in business. The sales people do their job, get the client interested, come close to sealing the deal, maybe even get it signed...then management knocks on the door.
Management comes along and asks how could we complete the project in such a short time or at such a low cost. Maybe they brought this up earlier and the sales person brushed off these ideas in favor of the sale.
Will it become a "I told you so" deal or not, who knows. Management is supposed to prevent these situations from occurring, but somethings are beyond their control.
And so we are reminded in this week's Parsha by Moshe who admits he is on his last day on Earth and if Bnai Israel follow in the ways of God all will be good for them. Unfortunately, God had a different view of the future. Here in 31:16-18:
If you ever were a teacher or a presenter at a conference you know this feeling quite well. No matter how you explain the subject, there will always be those who can not follow directions. In this case, it led to many problems for Israel then and through the millenia.
Sometimes you will sell a client on a product or solution only to find your company has decided to end the products life and how do you feel as that sales person? Moshe accepted this loss and wrote it all down for us to read today. The Torah shows the good and bad of many people, we know they were not all saintly but they believed in God. Knowing you did your job well even if management seemed to go in a different direction later sometimes is all you have left. Move on to the next sale, it's going to be huge.
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Parsha Vayelech in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 31:1-31:30 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Management comes along and asks how could we complete the project in such a short time or at such a low cost. Maybe they brought this up earlier and the sales person brushed off these ideas in favor of the sale.
Will it become a "I told you so" deal or not, who knows. Management is supposed to prevent these situations from occurring, but somethings are beyond their control.
And so we are reminded in this week's Parsha by Moshe who admits he is on his last day on Earth and if Bnai Israel follow in the ways of God all will be good for them. Unfortunately, God had a different view of the future. Here in 31:16-18:
This is God telling Moshe the future and that the last 40 years of Moshe's life have been for nothing.
If you ever were a teacher or a presenter at a conference you know this feeling quite well. No matter how you explain the subject, there will always be those who can not follow directions. In this case, it led to many problems for Israel then and through the millenia.
Sometimes you will sell a client on a product or solution only to find your company has decided to end the products life and how do you feel as that sales person? Moshe accepted this loss and wrote it all down for us to read today. The Torah shows the good and bad of many people, we know they were not all saintly but they believed in God. Knowing you did your job well even if management seemed to go in a different direction later sometimes is all you have left. Move on to the next sale, it's going to be huge.
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Parsha Vayelech in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 31:1-31:30 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, September 14, 2012
Hidden vs. Revealed Information
Oh the things we think about when we are with clients. All types of things, pricing, location, commissions, dates and more but what we really are trying to do is keep listening to them.
In return they are listening to us, extremely carefully. they want to hear certain ideas or phrases to either make them feel better or provide them a reason to disengage from us. they also want to believe we are their savior.
What we reveal is for the the clients benefit. What we do not say, is for our benefit. The magic that one does, whether it is a travel agent, a copy printer, technical consultant or a sales leader is your own magic. You expect to get rewarded for knowing the right person place or thing to complete the task.
And so it was in this week's parsha. Moshe is on his last day on Earth and he asks for the Heavens and the Earth to pay witness to the decisions of the Israelites. He mentions this in 29:28:
What is kept hidden is for us alone to use and let others wonder.
Stand by your words and all will be good for you we are told and you can't go wrong.
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Parsha Nitzavim in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 29:9-30:20 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
In return they are listening to us, extremely carefully. they want to hear certain ideas or phrases to either make them feel better or provide them a reason to disengage from us. they also want to believe we are their savior.
What we reveal is for the the clients benefit. What we do not say, is for our benefit. The magic that one does, whether it is a travel agent, a copy printer, technical consultant or a sales leader is your own magic. You expect to get rewarded for knowing the right person place or thing to complete the task.
And so it was in this week's parsha. Moshe is on his last day on Earth and he asks for the Heavens and the Earth to pay witness to the decisions of the Israelites. He mentions this in 29:28:
What we say is our word and as Heaven and Earth are not going anywhere, neither is anything we say at the time in front of our clients.
28. The hidden things belong to the Lord, our God, but the revealed things apply to us and to our children forever: that we must fulfill all the words of this Torah. כח. הַנִּסְתָּרֹת לַיהֹוָה אֱלֹהֵינוּ וְהַנִּגְלֹת לָנוּ וּלְבָנֵינוּ עַד עוֹלָם לַעֲשׂוֹת אֶת כָּל דִּבְרֵי הַתּוֹרָה הַזֹּאת:
What is kept hidden is for us alone to use and let others wonder.
Stand by your words and all will be good for you we are told and you can't go wrong.
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Parsha Nitzavim in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 29:9-30:20 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, September 7, 2012
Passion Selling
When you go into your clients offices, what do you look for? Naturally, if you are in sales you may look for something to discuss with them, an award, an interesting choice of sculpture or painting or maybe you just want to understand how they got to where they are today.
I was speaking to someone today that is in kiruv, outreach, about the 30 seconds to 2 minutes one has to size up someone in order to work with them on sales. He was fascinated by the ideas I expressed and was wondering how to do all of it in 2 minutes. I pointed out to him that his natural tendency to be jovial and excited by everything he does, and represents, grows on people. It is this exuberance that allows him to not need to know people so well because one can not help but become involved in anything he discusses as it relates to his outreach program.
Passion sells. Just like in social media and business, culture rules, but one can learn to change their viewpoint and in turn others viewpoint, by being vigilant to one's boundaries.
Find your passion, and you will find your success usually.
This week's parsha Moshe shows Israel the benefits and the downside of not being passionate and loving to Hashem. There are many curses in this parsha, but there are also many items which lead to a better outlook. It depends on your viewpoint.
Moshe reminds everyone about all the miracles performed on their behalf over the 40 years in the desert because he knows his passion can instill in the people to follow the ways of Hashem. Their clothes never wore out, nor their shoes, drank new wine or old, as described in 29:3-5
If you can do this with your clients, your sales should increase as well.
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Parsha Ki Tavo in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 26:1-29:8 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
I was speaking to someone today that is in kiruv, outreach, about the 30 seconds to 2 minutes one has to size up someone in order to work with them on sales. He was fascinated by the ideas I expressed and was wondering how to do all of it in 2 minutes. I pointed out to him that his natural tendency to be jovial and excited by everything he does, and represents, grows on people. It is this exuberance that allows him to not need to know people so well because one can not help but become involved in anything he discusses as it relates to his outreach program.
Passion sells. Just like in social media and business, culture rules, but one can learn to change their viewpoint and in turn others viewpoint, by being vigilant to one's boundaries.
Find your passion, and you will find your success usually.
This week's parsha Moshe shows Israel the benefits and the downside of not being passionate and loving to Hashem. There are many curses in this parsha, but there are also many items which lead to a better outlook. It depends on your viewpoint.
Moshe reminds everyone about all the miracles performed on their behalf over the 40 years in the desert because he knows his passion can instill in the people to follow the ways of Hashem. Their clothes never wore out, nor their shoes, drank new wine or old, as described in 29:3-5
All this to bring a passion to a people that probably took much for granted. Moshe knew who he was dealing with and he had to hit them where it mattered to them. Their heart, their head and their stomach.
If you can do this with your clients, your sales should increase as well.
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Parsha Ki Tavo in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 26:1-29:8 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, August 31, 2012
Your Word is Your Honor
We live in a consulting/advisory world. My words to clients, within my power of ability, is sacrosanct.
I don't lie to them nor do I promise what I can not in good faith deliver. Many times delays occur, as this past week with the storm called Isaac, some projects and efforts were delayed.
When you go out to visit your customers, if you are in sales, do you feel the need to say yes to anything and everything the customer asks, wants or thinks about? Hopefully not, but if you do, here is something to think about.
This is talking about donations, not tzedaka or charity pledges. A nidava in Hebrew is similar to a swearing to do something. As in, I swear to bring a sacrifice. But I have been in many meetings where, especially sales people, will swear to the client everything they want will be done or is in the product.
Your customer is just as important as a promise you make to God and in some ways for you possibly even more so. Think about this the next time you get into the same situation. Your clients may not be as forgiving as God is to to us.
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Parsha Ki Teitzei in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
I don't lie to them nor do I promise what I can not in good faith deliver. Many times delays occur, as this past week with the storm called Isaac, some projects and efforts were delayed.
When you go out to visit your customers, if you are in sales, do you feel the need to say yes to anything and everything the customer asks, wants or thinks about? Hopefully not, but if you do, here is something to think about.
| 23:24 says: Observe and do what is emitted from your lips just as you have pledged to the Lord, your God, as a donation, which you have spoken with your mouth. | כד. מוֹצָא שְׂפָתֶיךָ תִּשְׁמֹר וְעָשִׂיתָ כַּאֲשֶׁר נָדַרְתָּ לַי־הֹוָ־ה אֱלֹהֶיךָ נְדָבָה אֲשֶׁר דִּבַּרְתָּ בְּפִיךָ: |
This is talking about donations, not tzedaka or charity pledges. A nidava in Hebrew is similar to a swearing to do something. As in, I swear to bring a sacrifice. But I have been in many meetings where, especially sales people, will swear to the client everything they want will be done or is in the product.
Your customer is just as important as a promise you make to God and in some ways for you possibly even more so. Think about this the next time you get into the same situation. Your clients may not be as forgiving as God is to to us.
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Parsha Ki Teitzei in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19 It is said that the Torah or Bible
could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, August 17, 2012
Do you include everyone for your company parties?
I have been to many corporate events. Opening nights for Broadway theater shows, album launches, holiday parties, merger parties, office parties and of course conference parties.
Over the years I saw a noticeable change in who was invited. It seems that budgets were more important than some of the staff. Not the employees of course, but the interns, the peripheral staff maybe even contractors started falling off the list.
Truly a wasted opportunity to improve these fringe players relationships to the organization over a few dollars. I understand it, but do not necessarily agree with it.
In this parsha we find out everyone should be invited for festivals, which is how I am viewing corporate events. See 16:14 below
Yes it includes everyone in the city but it shows that one must make the effort to include everyone when celebrating. When this happens there is a larger sense of community and family like atmosphere.
Oddly enough the world has been growing more social lately, allowing others to share their happiness and events. The downside, for those who choose not to invite the others, is those non-invitees will see or hear many references through social media thus providing discord potentially.
As part of my day job we work with executives to understand the good and bad side of their social media decisions. Maybe next time I will lean on this idea as a different example.
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Parsha Re'eh in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Over the years I saw a noticeable change in who was invited. It seems that budgets were more important than some of the staff. Not the employees of course, but the interns, the peripheral staff maybe even contractors started falling off the list.
Truly a wasted opportunity to improve these fringe players relationships to the organization over a few dollars. I understand it, but do not necessarily agree with it.
In this parsha we find out everyone should be invited for festivals, which is how I am viewing corporate events. See 16:14 below
14. And you shall rejoice in your Festival-you, and your son, and your daughter, and your manservant, and your maidservant, and the Levite, and the stranger, and the orphan, and the widow, who are within your cities. יד. וְשָׂמַחְתָּ בְּחַגֶּךָ אַתָּה וּבִנְךָ וּבִתֶּךָ וְעַבְדְּךָ וַאֲמָתֶךָ וְהַלֵּוִי וְהַגֵּר וְהַיָּתוֹם וְהָאַלְמָנָה אֲשֶׁר בִּשְׁעָרֶיךָ:
Yes it includes everyone in the city but it shows that one must make the effort to include everyone when celebrating. When this happens there is a larger sense of community and family like atmosphere.
Oddly enough the world has been growing more social lately, allowing others to share their happiness and events. The downside, for those who choose not to invite the others, is those non-invitees will see or hear many references through social media thus providing discord potentially.
As part of my day job we work with executives to understand the good and bad side of their social media decisions. Maybe next time I will lean on this idea as a different example.
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Parsha Re'eh in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, July 27, 2012
No There is Too Much, Let me Sum Up
As a fan of The Princess Bride, I encourage you to read it if you never have before, not just watch it, which is where the Title comes from.
At the end of the year the public companies produce an Annual Report of their activities. An executive summary of all that happenned.
This week was the executive summary of not just 4 quarters, but 3 books and 40 years. Quite a bit to fit into 105 sentences.
While Moshe is reminding the people of everything God did for them, he is also reminding them of the bad things they did as well. In order to start a fresh, one needs to clear up the past.
And so as the entire book of Devarim is spent on Moshe saying his peace before he dies.
Why bring up the past, again? It always helps to know what came before you so you do not repeat the same mistakes. We have some more details of some of the past exploits, including that Og, King of Bashan, who was said to be a giant and live for a very long time, some say since the time of Noah, had a bed 9 cubits long. A cubit being about 18 inches, would make that a 13 and a half foot bed.
Why would anyone care about this? Was it just tossed in as a Red Herring? Or was it there to remind us that indeed at one time, giants walked the Earth?
When you provide a summary or history of a project it helps to sprinkle in some details which maybe have not seen the light of day to bring better interest into the information. It is this reason which pundits read into every nuance of reports or financial statements or press releases.
Next time you need to present the information, sum it up, don't drag it out and find one or two nuggets that will keep people interested in the sound bites of your details.
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Parsha Devarim in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 1:1-3:22
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
At the end of the year the public companies produce an Annual Report of their activities. An executive summary of all that happenned.
This week was the executive summary of not just 4 quarters, but 3 books and 40 years. Quite a bit to fit into 105 sentences.
While Moshe is reminding the people of everything God did for them, he is also reminding them of the bad things they did as well. In order to start a fresh, one needs to clear up the past.
And so as the entire book of Devarim is spent on Moshe saying his peace before he dies.
Why bring up the past, again? It always helps to know what came before you so you do not repeat the same mistakes. We have some more details of some of the past exploits, including that Og, King of Bashan, who was said to be a giant and live for a very long time, some say since the time of Noah, had a bed 9 cubits long. A cubit being about 18 inches, would make that a 13 and a half foot bed.
Why would anyone care about this? Was it just tossed in as a Red Herring? Or was it there to remind us that indeed at one time, giants walked the Earth?
When you provide a summary or history of a project it helps to sprinkle in some details which maybe have not seen the light of day to bring better interest into the information. It is this reason which pundits read into every nuance of reports or financial statements or press releases.
Next time you need to present the information, sum it up, don't drag it out and find one or two nuggets that will keep people interested in the sound bites of your details.
===========================================================================
Parsha Devarim in the book of Devarim, Deuteronomy 1:1-3:22
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, July 20, 2012
Recognizing When Enough is Enough
Stop keeping up with the neighbors and be happy with your lot in life.
Evidently Apple doesn't see it that way and they have legions of fans to fill this empty need of theirs with some new shiny device.
It is not always so, many people are very happy with what they have and why not?
People are funny, what works for one person rarely works for another or vice versa.
When the tribes of Reuben and Gad approach Moshe and ask that they keep the land on the other (East) side of the Jordan for their livestock is because in 32:4-5 they say:
Moshe wasn't swayed and while he did agree to their request, he required them to take arms and help their brethren to conquer the land of Israel first and then return home. They were allowed to build their forts and protect their families but then go forward and lead.
It is only after this discussion that suddenly Moshe says you can do it but he includes half of the tribe of Menashe. Whoa! Where did this come from? As it turns out the other half of Menashe would have their inherited lands on the West side of the Jordan. In this way the tribe would be considered whole.
So what does this mean for Reuben and Gad? Moshe realized they may be swayed by being outside of the holy land and would need some grounding thus half of the tribe of Menashe was put there. Menashe was one of the sons of Yosef (Joseph) and it was this spirit which Moshe hoped would prevail. In addition to ensuring Reuben and Gad kept their promise to go to battle.
So in the end was enough enough or was it just more greed by the capitalists? We do not know, but we do know that in time it would not matter for all two and a half would be lost during the great exile.
What is modern business to learn from this discussion? Depends on if you believe Reuben and Gad were happy with their place in life or looking for the better deal. Either way you look at it, you need to keep focused on the purpose or plan, just as Moshe reminded them to complete the battles before returning and deciding if they chose wisely.
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Parsha Mattot-Massei in the book of Bamidbar, Numbers 30:2-32:42 and 32:1-36:13
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Evidently Apple doesn't see it that way and they have legions of fans to fill this empty need of theirs with some new shiny device.
It is not always so, many people are very happy with what they have and why not?
People are funny, what works for one person rarely works for another or vice versa.
When the tribes of Reuben and Gad approach Moshe and ask that they keep the land on the other (East) side of the Jordan for their livestock is because in 32:4-5 they say:
Now you could also read this as they had the wealth (livestock) and were lazy and wanted to stay put and figured their wealth and influence would help in their favor.
Moshe wasn't swayed and while he did agree to their request, he required them to take arms and help their brethren to conquer the land of Israel first and then return home. They were allowed to build their forts and protect their families but then go forward and lead.
It is only after this discussion that suddenly Moshe says you can do it but he includes half of the tribe of Menashe. Whoa! Where did this come from? As it turns out the other half of Menashe would have their inherited lands on the West side of the Jordan. In this way the tribe would be considered whole.
So what does this mean for Reuben and Gad? Moshe realized they may be swayed by being outside of the holy land and would need some grounding thus half of the tribe of Menashe was put there. Menashe was one of the sons of Yosef (Joseph) and it was this spirit which Moshe hoped would prevail. In addition to ensuring Reuben and Gad kept their promise to go to battle.
So in the end was enough enough or was it just more greed by the capitalists? We do not know, but we do know that in time it would not matter for all two and a half would be lost during the great exile.
What is modern business to learn from this discussion? Depends on if you believe Reuben and Gad were happy with their place in life or looking for the better deal. Either way you look at it, you need to keep focused on the purpose or plan, just as Moshe reminded them to complete the battles before returning and deciding if they chose wisely.
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Parsha Mattot-Massei in the book of Bamidbar, Numbers 30:2-32:42 and 32:1-36:13
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
Friday, July 13, 2012
Succession Planning
Never easy to follow in the footsteps of someone who looms so large they are almost mythical. Look at Steve Jobs, Thomas Edison, Jack Welch, various heads of state among others.
The person who follows them has to find their own path, sometimes they do, sometimes they do not. In some cases the executive or the entity has prepared others to step in, which is why in the US we have a Vice President and they have had to fill in under difficult circumstances usually. But we live in hope that they can keep it together.
And so it was in the desert for Moshe who after being told how and where he will die, then asked for a replacement. Interesting that moshe asked, did he really care about Israel that much? In 27:15-17:
Your average company does not need a God fearing person leading them, although some may argue it helps, but rather someone with the convictions and beliefs in themselves and the company in question to lead them into the next stages of their (business) life. Unfortunately it is not very common or easy, according to this CareerBuilder survey as referenced here:
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Parsha Pichas in the book of Bamidbar, Numbers 25:10-30:1
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
The person who follows them has to find their own path, sometimes they do, sometimes they do not. In some cases the executive or the entity has prepared others to step in, which is why in the US we have a Vice President and they have had to fill in under difficult circumstances usually. But we live in hope that they can keep it together.
And so it was in the desert for Moshe who after being told how and where he will die, then asked for a replacement. Interesting that moshe asked, did he really care about Israel that much? In 27:15-17:
A man of spirit. Indeed, taking someone that is infused with the Ruach as the Hebrew says which is a word that can be explained as the spirit of God or a very vibrant person. Moshe knew that leading the not so small (in this Parsha it says they had over 600,000 people) nation into Israel would take someone strong willed and backed by Hashem.
Your average company does not need a God fearing person leading them, although some may argue it helps, but rather someone with the convictions and beliefs in themselves and the company in question to lead them into the next stages of their (business) life. Unfortunately it is not very common or easy, according to this CareerBuilder survey as referenced here:
Nearly one-third (31 percent) of companies with more than 1,000 employees say they don’t currently have a succession planning program at their organization, according to a new CareerBuilder survey. In addition, 50 percent of senior management (e.g., CEO, CFO, senior VP, etc.) and 52 percent of those in a vice president position say they do not have a successor for their current role. The survey was conducted online by Harris Interactive on behalf of CareerBuilder from February 21 through March 10, 2011, among more than 1,000 employers with 1,001 or more employees.So take the time to think about who will run your business after you, you never know what tomorrow brings.
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Parsha Pichas in the book of Bamidbar, Numbers 25:10-30:1
It is said that the Torah or Bible could be interpreted in over 70 ways. More likely these days 100's of ways. In light of this idea, I am writing some posts that bring a business sense to what we can learn on a weekly basis. Enjoy, Shabbat Shalom
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