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Rule 35: You can’t teach smart and you can’t fix stupid

Posted on March 14, 2024March 27, 2025 by Duncan Zaves

The first time I ever managed a team, my company wound up in the unfortunate position of needing a 20% Reduction in Force (RIF). One of my team was on the chopping block. I was torn. I had two smart employees I wasn’t getting the best out of, and a third employee that worked his…

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Rule 15: A Pro doesn’t cut people off

Posted on February 4, 2024March 27, 2025 by Duncan Zaves

Always let co-workers finish their thoughts, then talk. Often their thoughts are incorrect. Or incomplete. Or incoherent. Often you’ll have something more important to say. Or more accurate. Or more amusing. Just wait your fucking turn. The most respected managers and executives usually follow this rule. It makes everyone think they are paying attention and…

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Rule 1: A Pro lives by The Code for a reason

Posted on January 19, 2024March 27, 2025 by Duncan Zaves

The most important distinction between a Pro and the the hapless non-Pro is they are deliberate. They know why they do what they do. They don’t follow rules for the sake of following rules. They focus on doing the things that help them achieve their goals. Imagine every goal as a pin on a map….

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Recent Posts

  • Rule 22: You must earn your stripes
  • Rule 38: Work politics is chess, not checkers
  • Rule 64: Pros shake hands like they mean it
  • Rule 35: You can’t teach smart and you can’t fix stupid
  • Rule 41: A Pro dresses up on casual Friday

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