Author Archives: OJ

About OJ

I am a retired first line manager with over 40 years of experience. In operations management, accounting management, and central operations management. It is my wish to convey some of the experiences I have learned form over the years in the articles on my site.

The First Line Manager: You Have Got to Have Passion About Our Business

Posted on February 18, 2012 by OJ

A President of a major electric utility summarized his executive team meeting with the following statement. He stated, “You have got to be excited about what we do, you got to feel that. You have got to have passion for … Continue reading →

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The First Line Manager: Are You Similar to a General Eisenhower or a General Patton?

Posted on February 5, 2012 by OJ

In most respects a business first line manager is not comparable to an Ike or a Patton. We are not as powerful as these men. We can learn from their passion. Their passion was different. Their passion suited their role. … Continue reading →

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The First Line Manager: Consensus Decisions Versus Collaborative Decisions

Posted on January 22, 2012 by OJ

What is the effect of a consensus or collaborative decision on a first line managers department? The difference in the processes has a tremendous impact on the decisions effectiveness. Consensus is a committee process. Collaboration is a team process. When … Continue reading →

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360 and Upward Assessment Surveys, My View From the Bottom of a Corporation

Posted on January 12, 2012 by OJ

I read an article in the Wall Street Journal on December 8, 2011, by Joann Lublin entitled, “Transparency Pays Off in 360 degree reviews.” I have a particular view of these corporate surveys. From time to time in most big … Continue reading →

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First Line Manager: The Problem Ain’t The Problem

Posted on November 14, 2011 by OJ

I am discussing a recurring problem with an engineer on the phone. Bob S., my Customer Service Manger told me the problem occurred again today. This engineer’s crews cause the problem when they come into our territory and de-energize a … Continue reading →

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