Book Recommendations
from Bret L. Simmons

From Bret's review: "Despite its flaws, it is a good book. It will make the list of optional readings for my MBA class this fall because I think it will have an impact on the students that read it. The book is very well written with excellent organization and a very conversational style. The best thing about the book is the numerous excellent examples Liz gives to support her points, coming from her years of experience as a top executive and consultant."

Order now from Amazon!

From Bret's review: "This is not Bob Sutton’s best book, but if you’ve never read one of his books this is the one to start with because Bob really summarizes the most important ideas and evidence that have appeared in all of his previous books, articles, and blogs. Those familiar with Bob’s work will recognize that there is not a whole lot of new stuff here, but that’s OK, because it’s still the best stuff you are going to find about how to be a good boss."

Order now from Amazon!

My Advice to New MBA Students

August 15, 2009 by Bret L. Simmons · Filed under: Attitudes, Behavior, Leadership, Purpose

Today I am participating in the orientation of new MBA students at the University of Nevada, Reno. I have some simple advice for them that I think could also be used for any new employee or new member of your team (click on the link to learn more):

1. Unless and until you assume full responsibility for yourself, you force others to assume responsibility for you. Self-responsibility is the foundation for truly healthy relationship with others.

2. Excellence is a form of deviance. You become excellent because you do things your peers are unwilling to do.

3. Excuses are irrelevant. You only have yourself to blame for failing to reach your goals.

I’ve reached the point where I want to do things that matter with people that care (Jim Rohn). If you care, you will matter to me. If you don’t care about me or what I do, I will still do my best to care about you because that is my responsibility as a leader. But if you don’t care, please don’t expect to matter – you won’t and you only have yourself to blame.

Going back to school as an adult is not easy. I know because I’ve been there. Getting an MBA requires tremendous sacrifice, and I admire and applaud you for counting the cost and making the commitment. I’ll do my best to help you become better prepared and more effective than before we met if you find your way into one of my classes.

Welcome!

You should follow me on twitter here.

Tags: advice, Excellence, excuses, responsibility
Posted in Attitudes, Behavior, Leadership, Purpose

5 Responses to “My Advice to New MBA Students”

Alain Jourdier says:

August 15, 2009 at 4:31 pm

Wow, this is so right on the mark! Thanks, Bret.

[Reply]
Bret L. Simmons Reply:
August 15th, 2009 at 6:50 pm
Thanks, Alain! Blogging has really helped me clarify for myself what I really believe. Once again, I appreciate you taking the time to share your opinion. Bret

[Reply]
5 Blogs Every MBA Student Should Be Reading says:

September 8, 2009 at 11:14 am

[...] Some posts to sample: The Courage to Participate in Transformation as a Leader The Stepford Organization My Advice to New MBA Students [...]
Nicole Lynn Ott says:

August 3, 2010 at 2:49 am

Bret,

Anyone who is lucky enough to take one of your classes should view it as the incredible opportunity it is. There are not many teachers like you – you are extremely passionate about your topics, well versed in your field(s) of expertise, and more considerate and caring than most. Thank you.

[Reply]
Bret L. Simmons Reply:
August 3rd, 2010 at 8:36 am
Thanks for the kind words, Nicole! Much appreciated coming from you. Bret

[Reply]