Reflections on Reflections - Guest Post From Author Kevin Lewis

Reflections on "Reflections"

In preparing for and conducting the interviews for my first e-book, “Reflections from the C-Suite”, I learned some very important lessons. First, it is important to be building meaningful relationships with people BEFORE they reach the “C-Suite”. Not because you want to pre-position yourself. (I mean…after all, how does anyone know ahead of time who will be in that space). But because some day you will find yourself, as I was, in a position where you can bring mutual value to the relationship. In this case, I was able to capture their insights while simultaneously bringing visibility to them and their enterprise.

 Second, have a plan and be flexible. For an experts’ publication such as this, take the time to draft up the points or questions you would like for them to speak to. Get the draft into their hands well in advance so they can formulate their thoughts. But don’t lock them into the specific questions. By that, what I mean is…let your experts go in whatever direction their hot buttons may take them. After all, they are the experts.  And chances are someone will need to read about the very issues they want to expound upon.

Third, keep them informed on the project. You will discover that, for various and  unforeseen reasons, deadlines and milestones will be missed. Expect it. Nonetheless, let them know what is happening. That is simply a professional courtesy.  And be sure to offer a revised set of deadlines. By doing this, it will keep you honest and on track.

Fourth, if feasible, turn the e-book into a hardcopy and provide a free signed copy (with a personal note in the book) to each contributor. Remember, you are building relationships which may, and likely will, bring you value later.  Building relationships never stops. That is…if you desire to build a healthy life and meaningful writing career.

Pick up Reflections from the C-Suite: Opinions & Advice here:

Kevin Lewis is the founding and managing partner of LMK Partners LLC, a veteran-owned enterprise. His firm delivers services in the area of organizational improvement, productivity analysis, and change management. His experience encompasses his serving on U.S. delegations to international organizations, a CEO for a non-profit, and a director for nationally-focused study projects sponsored by government and academia.

He has taken on the personal mission of working as an author and consultant/coach. "The pace of today's business climate is causing many leaders to stumble, costing them time, money, and, more importantly, impediments to valued relationships....to include relationships with family members. I want to bring my own lessons learned to the table to assist these leaders in becoming more effective and productive in and outside of the office...and help them get a good night's rest."

He writes about business leadership, organizational improvement, effective communications, family issues, and the veteran community.