This is designed to be a living document that evolves as I learn more about myself.
Introduction
My name is Sam Beskind. I grew up in Tucson, Arizona. I work at Floodgate as Chief of Staff to Mike Maples Jr.
I give my all to the people and pursuits I care most about.
Relationships
Relationships are at the core of how I live and work. I believe in being both demanding and supportive – pushing people to be their best while never wavering in my commitment to them.
I prefer to work in tandem on projects rather than solo, and I’ve found that I like having a partner-in-crime.
Being a great teammate matters to me, and I gravitate toward others who feel the same. I’ve found an effective way to show you’re a good teammate is to praise in public and give constructive feedback in private.
To me, leadership is about actions, not titles. I believe we each have areas where we’re called to step up and lead.
I try to be a relentless optimist, because at the end of the day, negativity affects us negatively 100% of the time.
My Communication Style
I’m generally not afraid to share my ideas, even if it risks being embarrassing. I prefer when people are willing to share their ideas, even when they aren’t perfect.
I’m not naturally a disagreeable person. I won’t shoot down an idea until I’ve really thought it through. Sometimes this means I take longer than I should to give direct feedback. That said, if I strongly disagree with something based on my values, I will speak up.
When receiving feedback, I prefer it to be direct. I don’t mind constructive criticism—in fact, I think it’s one of the most important things we can arrange for.
When working on tasks with teammates, I really appreciate the “Let me think about it” or “I’m on it” email, as opposed to several days of silence.
Sometimes I ask random questions of my colleagues and friends about their work or personal life. I’m a curious person, but come by my curiosity honestly.
My Frameworks
- The Trust Equation: Trust = (Credibility × Reliability × Vulnerability)
- E + R = O: Event + Response = Outcome
- “A value is not a value unless you’d be willing to let it cost you.”
My Lifestyle
I’m an early-to-bed, early-to-rise type of guy. When I wake up, I try to ask myself these four questions:
- How do I want to show up in the world today?
- How can I exit my comfort zone today?
- How can I have the most fun doing what I need to do today?
- Whose life can I make better today?
Most days, I begin with a hard physical workout to set the tone.
I try to avoid sending emails late at night unless they’re incredibly urgent. I’m working on becoming a better listener and being more present in the moment I’m in.
I try to check in on my family and friends regularly on the phone and appreciate small acts to show others that I’m thinking about them.
I believe we’re at our best when we take care of ourselves physically and mentally. (This includes regularly pushing ourselves out of our comfort zones.)
Sam Beskind 