John Kennedy is a self-described “little guy that speaks quick.” An author, management consultant and stategist, Kennedy spoke Thursday afternoon to a networking gathering of Young Nursery Professionals. His talk addressed the difference between leadership and management. 

Crystal Cady introduces speaker John Kennedy to a networking gathering of Young Nursery Professionals

“Are you a born leader or a born manager?” Kennedy asked the crowd of about 30 men and women who came to Portland, Oregon to attend the Farwest Trade Show from places both near and far — British Columbia, Tennessee, Connecticut, Oregon and Washington. 

Kennedy is a dynamic speaker; he brought to life many of the insights obtained in his popular book, “Management That Cooks!” 

Kennedy first outlined the three essential characteristics of successful leaders…
1. Vision
2. The ability to attract talent
3. Sense of compassion
… And then shared anecdotes that illustrated each quality.
He stressed the importance of understanding what matters to employees in three key areas.

“First, employees want the ability to cross-train and develop skill sets,” Kennedy said. “Second, appreciate them for the work they do. And third, consistently communicate what’s expected of them. Each day we should tell them what they should be working on.

“Leadership is seeing in someone what they may not see in themselves. That’s the motivating element,” Kennedy said.

Kennedy also touched upon the tough parts of management. “Sometimes you have to tell someone they don’t belong here, the need to change. Sometimes being fired is the best thing that can happen to them.”

Kennedy also highlighted the influence of Facebook. “You all are a part of the sharing information generation.” He encouraged those assembled to organize a collective forum. 

Young Nursery Professionals can continue the conversation on Facebook.