Orrin, another great article as usual, one that is sure to hit home with many people when judging their own people skills. I have worked with the same company for thirty six years. During the course of my employment, I have had nine different bosses. The company I work for is one of the top 10 in the world, a major beverage company that is mentioned in " Good to Great", so there is always a shift in management as there is always a good opportunity for advancement. The really good bosses were always the ones who were calm, cool and collect in any situation. The bad ones of course were the ones who would go off the deep end at the slightest little sign of a problem. Needless to say, a lot of excellent sales reps would leave the company and go elsewhere just to get away from the boss who lacked people skills because it of course, caused them to be very unhappy with their work situation working in an unfriendly atmosphere. I fail miserably when it comes to " listening" but, the team system is working for me and I will get there. It is common for many people to want to be the one that is heard when sitting at the local coffee shop with all those who gather there. I have been standing by You and Chris before and some of the other Leaders when you were engaged in conversation with others and watched your eyes and your complete attention to the person with whom you are talking and it is an inspiration to those of us who lack that skill. The system and time will improve us all and I thank you for what You and others have committed yourselves to. Bernie