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Light on Leadership
Great Teams Don’t Happen Accidentally.
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Welcome to Light on Leadership! In under two minutes, our newsletter delivers one book recommendation, one leadership action step, and two leadership tips. We know you're busy, so we've designed this content to be both useful and shareable. Enjoy!
“Don’t Be Stupid. Hire Smart” is simple advice, and it also happens to be the title of the first chapter in The First Two Rules of Leadership: Don’t Be Stupid, Don’t Be a Jerk by David Cottrell. In this opening chapter, Cottrell shares multiple examples of organizations that have learned, sometimes the hard way, how critical smart hiring decisions are to long term success. One of his most practical reminders is this: when you do not have a strong candidate, do not hire anyone. Take your time. The right person is worth the wait.
Who isn’t in favor of less stress and being surrounded by people they enjoy working with each day? One of a leader’s most important responsibilities is building a strong, effective team, but that does not happen by chance. It requires intention. Before entering the hiring process, leaders must clearly define the skills, attributes, and attitudes they are truly looking for in their next hire.
Equally important, when we realize we have hired the wrong person, we must be willing to acknowledge it and take action. Delaying difficult personnel decisions rarely helps anyone involved. Addressing issues early and honestly improves the organization and leads to healthier, more effective systems for everyone involved. Culture matters, and having the right people in the right roles is foundational to building a workplace where trust, clarity, and accountability can thrive.
👉 Quick Action Step:
Think about your best employee. What attitudes and mindset make them stand out? Use that clarity to guide how you hire, coach, and shape your organizational culture.
Book Recommendation:
The First Two Rules of Leadership: Don't Be Stupid, Don't Be a Jerk.
By David Cottrell
Purchase this book! https://www.amazon.com/First-Two-Rules-Leadership-Stupid/dp/1119282802
Two Tips
In this short clip, Simon Sinek challenges leaders to rethink hiring by focusing less on résumés and more on attitude and character. His message reinforces a powerful truth: skills can be taught, but mindset and attitude are what ultimately shape culture and team success.
“Your team has entrusted a portion of their life to you, and it’s your job to help them grow, personally and professionally.”
- David Cottrell
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