Monday 22 August 2005

Cairns’s Best Managers Chosen

Cairns’s best managers have been announced to the backdrop of an inspirational story about standing out in the crowd.

Over 100 people attended the Cairns Management Excellence Awards final on Thursday 28 July and guests were thrilled by the adventurous tales of guest speaker Paul Hockey and his conquering of Mt Everest.

Paul spoke about his views on Management Excellence.

What does Management Excellence mean to you?

Managers should lead by example, and only ask their employees to do what they themselves are prepared to do. I feel it is very important to be fair and strong in the decisions that you make and also to listen to the people that you are managing. Make them feel comfortable with you so that they feel they can come and talk to you about what they are experiencing or feeling.

What advice would you give or have you received which has influenced you business career?

I once received advice from someone who said, “If you start something, do everything in your power to see it through to the very end.” This is what I have tried to emulate ever since.

Some advice that I would give to others is that you should always listen to people. Life is all about the choices that you make. It is important to look for the good in other people instead of concentrating on the bad in them. Try and teach this attitude to young people wherever possible and I believe this can make the world a better place.

Why do you think we need to recognise outstanding managers?

I feel it is very important to recognise the good work that others do everyday. It is especially important to recognise young managers, as it will give them motivation to keep going with the great work that they are doing and show them how much what they are doing matters to others and is appreciated.