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Issue #72 - February 18, 2025

Welcome to another powerful edition of G.R.O.W. - Guidance Redefines Our Way! I know what's running through your minds right now: "Really, Michael? Presidential leadership? In THIS political climate?" Trust me, I hear you. But that's precisely why this conversation matters more than ever. As we celebrate Presidents' Day, we're going to take a step back from the current headlines and dig into something deeper – the fundamental leadership qualities that have shaped our nation's highest office throughout history. Whether you're leading a team of three or three hundred, there are golden nuggets of wisdom we can extract from studying presidential leadership.

Listen, I'm not here to talk politics – we've got enough of that in our social media feeds. Instead, I want us to explore how these executive-level leadership principles can transform your professional journey. From crisis management to decision-making under pressure, these skills transcend political parties and can elevate your leadership game. So keep an open mind as we dissect this issue – you might be surprised by what you discover about yourself as a leader.

Growth Spotlight: "Executive Decision-Making: Learning from Presidential Leadership"

History shows that presidential leadership often comes down to making tough decisions under immense pressure. Let's examine two defining moments that showcase exceptional crisis leadership:

Abraham Lincoln's Civil War Leadership (1861-1865) When Lincoln took office, he faced a nation tearing apart. His leadership during this period offers us several crucial lessons:

• Team of Rivals Approach: Lincoln famously appointed his political rivals to his cabinet instead of surrounding himself with yes-men. This bold move gave him access to diverse perspectives and demonstrated true leadership confidence. Think about that – how many of us would hire our biggest critics to be our closest advisors?

• Balanced Decision-Making: While fighting to preserve the Union, Lincoln showed remarkable flexibility in his tactical decisions while remaining unwavering in his strategic goals. He wasn't afraid to change generals, adjust military strategies, or evolve his policies as demanded.

• Communication Mastery: Lincoln knew when to be firm (Gettysburg Address) and when to be conciliatory (Second Inaugural Address's "With malice toward none" message). He tailored his communication style to serve his larger leadership goals.

JFK and the Cuban Missile Crisis (October 1962) Kennedy's handling of the Cuban Missile Crisis offers a masterclass in crisis management:

• The Power of Process: Kennedy established the Executive Committee (ExComm), bringing together diverse experts to analyze options. He intentionally absent himself from initial discussions to prevent his presence from influencing their candid debate.

• Active Listening: Despite immense pressure for immediate military action, Kennedy took time to hear and consider multiple approaches. He even had his brother Robert play devil's advocate to test each proposed solution.

• Creative Problem-Solving: The final resolution – a public deal to remove missiles from Cuba and a private agreement to remove missiles from Turkey – demonstrated Kennedy's ability to think beyond simple either/or options.

• Public Confidence: Throughout the crisis, Kennedy projected calm authority while maintaining transparency with the American people, proving that how you communicate during a crisis is almost as important as what you decide.

Key takeaways from presidential decision-making:

1. Information Gathering: Successful presidents surround themselves with diverse advisors and seek multiple perspectives before making crucial decisions.

2. Time Management: While some decisions require immediate action, others benefit from careful consideration. Understanding this difference is crucial.

3. Values-Based Leadership: The most respected presidential decisions align with clear moral principles and long-term national interests.

4. Stakeholder Communication: Effective presidents excel at explaining their decisions to various audiences, from cabinet members to the general public.

Professional Growth Gateway: Strategic Leadership Skills

Drawing from presidential leadership examples, here are essential skills for modern leaders:

Decision-Making Frameworks

The DACI Model: A Presidential Approach to Decision-Making

The DACI model, which stands for Driver, Approver, Contributors, and Informed, is a powerful framework that mirrors how successful presidents have structured their decision-making processes. Let's break it down:

Driver (D):

• The person responsible for driving the decision to completion

• Think of this as your "Secretary of State" for the project

• Responsibilities include:

  • Setting the timeline

  • Gathering necessary information

  • Coordinating with all stakeholders

  • Ensuring the decision gets made

Approver (A):

• The person(s) with ultimate authority to make the final decision

• In presidential terms, this is "The Buck Stops Here" role

• Usually limited to 1-2 people to avoid gridlock

• Must have the authority to commit resources and accept responsibility

Contributors (C):

• Your advisory team, like a president's cabinet

• Subject matter experts who provide input

• Key stakeholders who will be affected by the decision

• Important: Contributors have a voice but not a vote

Informed (I):

• People who need to know about the decision once it's made

• Those affected by the implementation

• Team members who need to align their work accordingly

• External stakeholders who need to be kept in the loop

Real-World Application: Imagine you're leading a major organizational change. Here's how DACI would work:

• Driver: Your project manager coordinating the change

• Approver: You (the leader) and perhaps your direct supervisor

• Contributors: Department heads, key team members, HR representatives

• Informed: All employees, clients, vendors, and relevant external partners

Pro Tip: Document your DACI structure at the start of any major initiative. This prevents confusion and speeds up decision-making.

Additional Frameworks

• The "What If?" Scenario Planning

• The Eisenhower Matrix for Priority Setting

Crisis Leadership Lessons

• Maintaining composure under pressure

• Creating clear communication channels

• Building and leading crisis response teams

• Balancing short-term needs with long-term consequences

Public Speaking Excellence

• Crafting compelling narratives

• Adapting message delivery for different audiences

• Using rhetorical devices effectively

• Maintaining authenticity while delivering prepared remarks

Legacy Building Strategies

• Developing signature initiatives

• Mentoring future leaders

• Documentation and knowledge transfer

• Building sustainable systems and processes

Success Spotlight: The Enduring Value of Federal Service

A Personal Perspective on Federal Service. As someone who dedicated 36 years of my life to the FBI, I want to speak directly to young professionals about federal service. Yes, we're currently experiencing a challenging period with hiring freezes and heightened scrutiny of probationary employees. But let me tell you why you shouldn't let temporary obstacles deter you from considering a federal career when opportunities open up again.

The Long Game Matters During my three-and-a-half decades of service, I witnessed multiple administrative changes, budget fluctuations, and policy shifts. What remained constant was the incredible impact we could make and the unmatched job security that comes with federal service once you're established. The key is persistence and performance during those initial years.

Why Federal Service Still Matters Even in challenging times, federal employment offers benefits that are hard to match:

Stability and Growth

• Career appointments become highly secure after the probationary period

• Clear promotion pathways with the GS system

• Regular step increases and cost-of-living adjustments

• Opportunities to move between agencies and locations

Outstanding Benefits Package

• Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) - widely considered the best healthcare coverage in the country

• Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching

• Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI)

• Paid parental leave

• Annual and sick leave that increases with tenure

Work-Life Balance

• Flexible work schedules

• Telework opportunities (agency dependent)

• 11 federal holidays

• Starting at 13 days of vacation plus 13 days of sick leave annually

Professional Development

• Continuous training opportunities

• Tuition assistance programs

• Leadership development programs

• Mentorship opportunities

Navigating the Current Climate For those considering federal service when hiring resumes:

• Research agencies thoroughly to understand their missions and stability

• Network with current federal employees (like myself) who can provide guidance

• Excel during your probationary period through outstanding performance

• Document your achievements and contributions

• Build strong relationships across your organization

• Understand your rights and benefits as a federal employee

My Personal Journey Throughout my 36-year FBI career, I experienced firsthand how federal service can provide both professional fulfillment and personal growth. I started at the bottom and worked my way up, facing challenges but always finding the work meaningful and rewarding. The relationships I built, the missions I contributed to, and the impact I made on national security made every day worthwhile.

Looking to the Future While we're currently in a period of restricted hiring, this is temporary. History shows that federal service consistently rebounds and continues to offer outstanding career opportunities. When hiring resumes, agencies will need fresh talent more than ever. Use this time to:

• Develop relevant skills

• Build your professional network

• Research federal agencies that align with your interests

• Prepare for the federal application process

• Connect with federal employee organizations and mentors

Would you like to discuss federal service opportunities or connect with experienced federal employees? Reach out to me or share your story with me at [email protected]. Remember, today's challenges are temporary, but the rewards of federal service are lasting.

Special note: Looking for inspiration? Join our upcoming mentorship program where you can connect with experienced federal employees who've navigated similar challenges successfully.

Community Corner: Civic Engagement Opportunities

Building leadership skills doesn't just happen in the workplace. Your community offers countless opportunities to develop and practice presidential-level leadership qualities. Here's your guide to making a meaningful impact while growing your leadership capabilities:

Local Government Advisory Boards

• Planning Commission

  • Help shape your community's future development

  • Practice strategic long-term thinking

  • Learn to balance diverse stakeholder interests

• Parks and Recreation Board

  • Influence quality of life initiatives

  • Manage public resources

  • Develop public-private partnerships

• Economic Development Committee

  • Support local business growth

  • Attract new opportunities to your community

  • Practice data-driven decision-making

How to Get Started: Contact your local government office or visit their website to find current board openings. Many positions are appointed, but diverse candidates are actively sought.

Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT): The skills you learn here mirror presidential crisis management:

• Disaster Preparedness Training

  • Learn incident command systems

  • Develop emergency response protocols

  • Practice crisis communication

• Team Leadership Opportunities

  • Coordinate with first responders

  • Lead emergency response drills

  • Manage volunteer teams

• Community Education

  • Conduct safety workshops

  • Organize preparedness events

  • Build community resilience

Youth Mentorship Programs Shape the next generation of leaders:

• School-Based Mentoring

  • Partner with local schools

  • Support academic achievement

  • Guide college and career planning

• Sports and Recreation Programs

  • Coach youth teams

  • Develop character through athletics

  • Build team leadership skills

• Professional Development Programs

  • Career shadowing opportunities

  • Resume writing workshops

  • Interview preparation sessions

Featured Program: A Few Good MENtors is seeking mentors for our spring cohort—contact [email protected] to apply.

Public Policy Forums Engage in meaningful dialogue about important issues:

• Town Halls and Public Meetings

  • Practice public speaking

  • Learn to address constituent concerns

  • Understand policy implementation

• Issue-Based Working Groups

  • Collaborate on specific community challenges

  • Develop consensus-building skills

  • Create actionable solutions

• Citizen Advisory Committees

  • Provide input on local initiatives

  • Review proposed policies

  • Represent community interests

Upcoming Forum: "Future of Our City" town hall meeting on March 15, 2025, at the Community Center.

Digital Engagement Opportunities: Can't commit to in-person activities? Consider these virtual options:

• Online Community Forums

• Virtual Town Halls

• Digital Volunteer Coordination

• Social Media Advocacy

Leadership Skill Development Through Service Each of these opportunities helps you develop crucial leadership competencies:

• Strategic Planning

• Public Speaking

• Team Management

• Crisis Response

• Stakeholder Engagement

• Project Implementation

• Community Building

Ready to get involved? Contact our Community Engagement Team at [contact information] for personalized guidance on finding the right opportunity for your leadership journey.

Remember: Today's community leader could be tomorrow's national leader. Start your journey in your backyard.

Michael's Hot Take

Let me be real with you for a moment. After 36 years in the FBI, I've seen administrations come and go, each bringing their own flavor of 'reform' to federal service. And yes, I've seen the recent headlines about the current situation – the late-night emails, the uncertainty, the anxiety rippling through agencies. raises eyebrow

Look, I could sugar-coat this, but that's not my style. What we're seeing is challenging, no doubt. But here's what those headline writers often miss: the incredible resilience of our federal workforce. Do you know what I learned during my decades of service? The strength of our government isn't in any single administration or billionaire's Twitter... sorry, 'X' feed. It's in the dedicated professionals who show up daily, regardless of political winds, to serve the American people.

To my federal family currently navigating these waters: Remember that you're part of a legacy that's weathered every storm since 1776. That's not just history – that's your heritage. And to those considering federal service once these clouds clear: Don't let temporary turbulence deter you from a career that offers the opportunity to impact lives.

Do you want to know what real leadership looks like in times like these? It's not about making the loudest noise or sending the latest tweet. It's about maintaining your integrity, supporting your colleagues, and staying focused on the mission. That's what I learned from studying presidential leadership, and that's what I witnessed firsthand throughout my career.

As someone who's been through more government 'reorganizations' than I care to count, let me tell you this: This too shall pass. And when it does, our nation will still need dedicated public servants who understand that true leadership isn't about following the latest trending topic – it's about serving with honor, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the American people.

Stay strong, stay focused, and remember: you're not just employees but guardians of democracy. And that's not just a phrase for your LinkedIn profile; it's the truth that's kept our government running for nearly 250 years.

Who's ready to show them what real public service looks like?

Upcoming Events

New Mentor Training Course (NMTC 25-01)

Date: TBD For all new and experienced AFGM Mentors. Registration details coming soon

Black Men's Mental Health Conference

Coming to the DMV in September 2025 Stay tuned for more details about this groundbreaking event

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

A Few Good MENtors, Inc. Thank you for your continued support in developing tomorrow's leaders.

Closing Thoughts

As we reflect on presidential leadership principles, remember that outstanding leadership isn't about having all the answers – it's about asking the right questions, building strong teams, and maintaining an unwavering commitment to your values. Whether you're leading a small team or aspiring to more significant responsibilities, these timeless principles can guide your journey.

Remember: Guidance Redefines Our Way.

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