Jim has always been very measured in his choice of words while coaching. A trait that everyone needs to develop, but especially important for CFOs. Once he said "where you stand on issues, depends on where you sit".
Episode: During operating planning season one year, I was complaining about how product development folks don't understand challenges of Sales teams who are on the front lines. I went on a rant about this, and after listening to me for a couple of minutes, Jim said the above line.
The crux was: While it is understandable that I had the view I did, it is largely driven by the fact that that's the view I understand and am exposed to. If places were reversed (Another Jim-ism: don't judge others till you walk a mile in their moccasins), I probably would have a different view. As a CFO, it is important to have a rational perspective on situations, without bias - driven by balanced facts and views. This is a hard thing to do, but a critical requirement.
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