Good morning, Leaders! It’s Friday!

I am not a social media wizard but I can navigate most things. I was with a 60+ year old CEO recently who posted his second Facebook picture, ever. (I was advised some time ago to not use Facebook so I never started.) I do blog…and I use LinkedIn where I recently got involved with a few leadership groups.

I’ve copied a link to a recent article in inc.com that refers to things we say that really displays our character.

http://www.inc.com/john-brandon/10-phrases-leaders-with-high-moral-character-always-use.html

I am returning from a long week in Washington, DC where I met with the North Dakota Senators and Congressman(‘s aid) as part of the American Council of Engineering Companies North Dakota delegation.

Party positions aside, I like Heidi Heitkamp. She’s knowledgeable, personable and I believe she cares about making a positive difference for North Dakota.
I also enjoy speaking to John Hoeven who is polished, friendly and got to the heart of North Dakota issues.
I’m pleased that virtually each year I’ve attended, we’ve been able to get time with our senators and they’ve made us feel that we and our issues are important.

We were also able to hear from Senator Lisa Murkowski from Alaska at a fund raising event. She led the charge on the Energy bill and is now pushing to resolve differences between the House and Senate versions so we might enjoy legislation to provide a path to energy security and make sustainability an economic reality.

When it comes to their phrasing, they are champion orators and it would be easy to hide behind political speak but I detected none of that. I heard;
•”We could have done better.” Regarding transportation funding for the next five years.
•”I’ll get back to you.” Regarding amendments on the recently senate passed Energy bill…and they did!
•”I don’t understand” regarding public sentiment on a hot, expensive issue where we’ve been able to move the ball forward to a solution. That’s right, a solution achieved through the political system!
•”Thank you!” Coming from a public servant, that displays humility as well appreciation.

There is plenty of confusion when it comes to our current political system  as exemplified by the presidential race.  I am encouraged that we have senators who have character demonstrated through what they say and how they say it.

Have a blessed weekend!