Jimmy Blackmon
Featured Keynote Programs
Vision, Culture, Climate, and the Leadership that Binds Them
In the summer of 2008, Jimmy traveled to Afghanistan to visit the Army aviation unit that he his unit would be replacing six months later. While there Jimmy witnessed a battle in which twenty-seven soldiers were wounded and nine were tragically killed. A Medal of Honor was earned. As a leader observing the battle, Jimmy felt the weightand responsibility of leadership like never before. Despite having served two years in Iraq, he had not seen attacks of that complexity. He kept asking himself over and over, “Are my soldiers prepared for this? Have I done everything possible to train them well enough?”
Over the next few days, Jimmy realized that in order to succeed he must transform the culture within his organization to one of trust and empowerment. In a naturally hierarchal Army culture, Jimmy went about creating an environment where all ideas were welcomed regardless of the rank, position. Jimmy set about empowering his people to use initiative to collectively solve their tactical problems. The results were remarkable. Jimmy’s air cavalry task force swept almost every Army award that year, but not because Jimmy Blackmon did anything extraordinary. He simply shaped an environment in which his soldiers could maximize their own personal potential.
Through the colorful, engaging storytelling ability that Jimmy is known for, he shares practical, pragmatic methods for casting an organizational vision, shaping culture, and setting a climate that is conducive to success. Vision alone isn't enough. Jimmy explains how leaders must employ a systematic approach to gain the trust and buy-in of their employees in order to reach their goals and fulfill their mission.
Clients will leave this presentation with a clear understand of the importance of an empowering culture and positive work climate.
Leading in a Complex World
In this presentation Jimmy describes the transition from an Industrial Age organization to a 21st Century model. Through powerful images Jimmy paints a clear picture of companies that failed to understand that the modern era demands new organizational characteristics. In a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous 21st Century, companies must build speed, agility, trust, empowerment, and a clear understanding of the disrupters in their business space.
Leadership for the 21st Century
In this presentation, Jimmy shows the power of inspiration that only comes when leaders genuinely connect with those they lead.
Management is about systems and processes. Leadership is about inspiring human beings. Both are vitally important to the success of any organization. Through practical examination, Jimmy demonstrates the necessity of both.
In his formative years, Jimmy was told that leadership is lonely business, but he never bought into that idea. A leader that does not connect with those they lead will be followed half-heartedly because of position and title. An inspiring leader that develops genuine relationships with those they lead will be followed because they inspire human accomplishment. Are your employees compliant or committed? Jimmy will show you how to achieve commitment.