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Author: Back 2

Forged by the Sea: The Beginnings of Paul Sperry

The United States Navy debuted a slogan in 2017 to resonate with sailors and “capture the essence” of their service to our nation. Little did they know “Forged by the Sea” described one sailor’s business success as well. Among many things, the United States Armed Forces is known for creating familial connections and brotherhood. It’s also known for its professional and foundational starting point for American business leaders. The American inventor of Sperry Topsiders, Paul Sperry, a prior Reserve Navy...

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George Washington: Why We Celebrate Him Today

General George Washington's army marching to Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, 1777 We all know George Washington was the first president of the United States, but many don’t know why. History remembers Washington favorably because of how key his leadership was during the revolutionary war - specifically his character, presence and steadfast commitment to the cause. These traits are what made him so different and is what paved the way for him becoming one of the most memorable men in the history...

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The Value of Moral Courage

  • by back2
  • January 22, 2019
  • Leadership
  • Comments: ( 0 )

On a day of respect for one of America's most influential leaders, it's important to take Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s courageous words into action. Moral courage is an important trait for leaders to have - especially in our businesses. "The time is always right to do what is right." Getting ahead, whether it be monetarily or in competition, is one major way we see moral codes jeopardized. When aspiring to the top of your field, whether it be recruiting...

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The Value in Hiring Veterans

  • by back2
  • January 10, 2019
  • Recruiting
  • Comments: ( 1 )

Because I have a long history recruiting veterans, I'm often asked, "What's the value in hiring veterans?" I'm asked that so much, I figured I'd write this post. First off, all the US military branches stress certain Core Values and hold their service members accountable to them. Consequently, military members work in an environment where traits like Honor, Integrity, and Commitment mean something. These traits are the cornerstones of military culture. Corporations benefit because hiring veterans is like "planting seedlings"...

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Hiring the Right Talent

  • by back2
  • December 4, 2018
  • Hiring
  • Comments: ( 0 )

It is common knowledge that to rush through anything results in poor quality. Consider the quote by famed coach John Wooden. "If you don't have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?" Hiring the right talent for a specified job takes time. This also happens to be what most managers and owners don't have. Seeing as we specialize in recruiting here at Ridgeback, we wanted to break down some recruitment steps to help...

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5 Must Read Books on Leadership

  • by back2
  • November 10, 2018
  • Leadership
  • Comments: ( 0 )

Sometimes taking on another person's perspective and experiences are necessary to expand our mind. The greatest leaders not only surround themselves with noble men for this reason but also read to capture their reactions in difficult situations. After discussing this topic with a few successful veterans in business, we have composed a list of their favorite books that helped them grow as leaders. Books to Build your Leadership Skills 1. "Shackleton's Way" by Margot Morrell Sir Ernest Shackleton has been called "the greatest...

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Managing like a Coach

  • by back2
  • October 11, 2018
  • Leadership
  • Comments: ( 0 )

Oftentimes, Managers treat employees with more suspicion than supportiveness. Frustration comes easily in a position of power, especially when a Manager feels out of a control. But what would happen if every Manager believed in their employees like coaches do their athletes? In particular, the underdogs. Managing people and coaching them should share many similarities when seeking success. No matter if it is in an office or on a field, getting someone to perform at their peak takes more than simply...

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Bad Managers & Why Employees Quit

  • by back2
  • October 4, 2018
  • Leadership
  • Comments: ( 0 )

Why Employees Quit Why people leave great positions varies, of course, but the most agreed upon answer has Managers in the limelight. After researching thousands of employee anecdotes, the CEO of LinkedIn, Jeff Weiner, disclosed why the majority of people quit: they didn't like their Managers. He added that most employees who don't like their boss also don't have the support of their coworkers. Therefore, a lack of good leadership and belonging generates the desire to leave for a better...

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Identifying Leaders

  • by back2
  • September 26, 2018
  • Leadership
  • Comments: ( 0 )

Qualities vs. Qualifications Far too often in the hiring process, management only seeks out resumes of current leaders. Qualifications are necessary but don't always equate to the right person for a good office environment. If a resume can't distinguish the potential leaders from the toxic colleagues we want to avoid, how can we make sure we hire the right people? Look for qualities instead of just previous job titles. The Team vs the "Me" Mentality True leaders seek honesty and good...

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Leadership and Emotional Intelligence

A Requirement to Great Leadership A common saying is that “there is no emotion in business”. However, emotional intelligence separates average professionals from those with great leadership skills. Business Insider, along with exceptional business professionals, reports that leaders with high emotional intelligence communicate better, create understanding in the workplace, and help achieve common goals. Empathizing with employees and coworkers while maintaining a calm demeanor can help address conflicts before they intensify. [caption id="attachment_926" align="aligncenter" width="362"] Developing leadership skills starts with your emotional...

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