It is much more difficult to measure non-performance than performance. Performance stands out like a ton of diamonds. Non-performance can almost always be explained away
Harold GeneenRead
When I come upon a man who has a gleaming, empty, clear desktop, I am dealing with a fellow who is so far removed from the realities of his business that someone else is running it for him.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A clear desktop can indicate a lack of engagement with one's work responsibilities.
This quote suggests that an overly tidy workspace may reflect a leader or manager who is detached from the day-to-day realities of their business. It implies that active involvement and awareness are crucial for effective leadership, and that a clean desk could signify laziness or a reliance on others to manage affairs.
Themes
LeadershipResponsibilityEngagementBusinessWorkplace
In practice
Example use cases
During a leadership workshop, you can use this quote to emphasize the importance of hands-on management.
More from Harold Geneen
All quotes →I think it is an immutable law in business that words are words, explanations are explanations, promises are promises, but only performance is reality
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