David Apaflo's Blog

A CV as we know it is supposed to give a representation of your abilities, experience, achievements and associated information. I have come to realize nowadays that a lot of CVs are “over-enhanced” to the point of telling lies. A situation where someone who cannot type on a computer is proficient in Microsoft word, excel and powerpoint! Where someone who hasn’t even registered for an exam is writing “CCNA (in view)”. As a general guide, it is good to enhance your CV. However, do not tell lies that would come back to haunt you. If at all you want to lie, make sure if you are tested you can at least drag yourself through the test with the existing skills you have. Work experience is another area where people tell a lot of lies! I recently saw a CV of someone who had just two months of experience claim he had two years of experience!!! Believe me, I am not exaggerating. Imagine this kind of lie? If he finally gets the job, how would he cope? This would only lead to future embarras

A few years ago, I attended a seminar where Jim Lafferty then CEO CocaCola West Africa spoke on leadership. Going through my notes, I found some timeless insights I would love to share with you. Items after this paragraph are from Jim. Characteristics of good leaders 1. People respect them - What you need in the working place is respect not love. 2. People want to work for them. 3. People feel support & protection. 4. People are loyal to great leaders. 5. People admire them & aspire to be like them. Leadership emotions are built upon actions, behaviours and interactions. 12 leadership’s behaviours 1. Humble & human – not afraid to admit mistakes, great leaders admit their humanity. 2. Live by the principle “in third” 3. Brutal, 100% honesty, in all shapes and forms. 4. Demand truth and honesty in return and reward it. 5. Do what is right no matter the price. • A principle is not a principle until it costs you something. • Leaders must be above reproach. 6