Boss Mode is a new regular online feature spotlighting Cornelius business and community leaders. Today we’re featuring Scott Higgins, a retired higher-education administrator, former town commissioner, and self-described journeyman board member.

Name: Scott Higgins

Company: North Meck Non-Profit

Job Title: Senior Administrator, Consultant

First thing you do when you walk into work?

Since my facial expression does not always exude warmth and gratitude upon crossing the work threshold, I remember to smile and make eye contact before prioritizing the day’s activities with all who might help us succeed. A warm smile has a direct impact on brain activity in framing one’s early work entry.

Coffee, tea, or stronger?

I prefer a hot to go with a cup of Mocha-flavored Caribou coffee if I am living right. It would be my second or third cup of coffee away from home since I am an early riser. An egg and SportsCenter before 6 a.m. Don’t tempt me with a fresh glazed donut. By 8 a.m. the day is half over!

What part of the job would surprise people most?

Most people would be surprised by how much I have to prepare for a meeting or an upcoming decision. I have to jot down short, scribbled notes in my appointment book early in the process, put key questions and points on Post-It Notes, and prioritize one or two outcomes cognizant that I might not have the time to speak or discuss.

What small decision eats up way more time than it should?

It always surprises me that how much deciding where to eat, what to eat, and who might join me eats up time throughout the day. I prefer an informal business meal, if I have a choice. Unfortunately, I seem to go to more overpriced rubber chicken or unhealthy meal choices than I care to admit, with frequently less than satisfying results.

What’s always on your desk (besides a phone and computer)?

My desk is always adorned with bright yellow Post-It Note pads. I require a written reminder of a scheduled meeting, email or text prompt, or an extraneous fact that I will seldom need again. I frequently have a full month paper calendar/blotter, in addition to a cellphone calendar, so I can plan out a whole month of personal, business, and job required stuff.

Favorite quick lunch in town?

By far, my favorite quick lunch is a Cocotte gourmet sandwich! I get bored quickly with fast food options and am constantly on the prowl for something quick and tasty without costing more than my self-imposed meal plan. I like sandwiches more than salads or most restaurant fare.

Best advice you have ever gotten about business?

Start meetings on time. Move important agenda items to the top. Some participants may have to leave early. If you show up at the precise meeting time start — you are late! Respect folk’s time and priorities in conducting and concluding business.

A daily habit that keeps you sane?
Keep moving with a variety of activities! I have to walk around the block and get out of the office to regenerate for afternoon business. I am an avid cyclist and look forward to ending the day, if possible, with a ride around town. I attend as many town, business and civic events as I can fit in my schedule. I am just as active now as I was during my 40-plus year career in higher education. Decompress any way you can by interacting with your surroundings on a daily basis.

What’s the five-minute task you refuse to delegate?

In most cases, the act of promptly returning a telephone call. Generally, when someone calls you, they are wanting to talk with you and want that communication and the outcome that comes from that interaction. I refuse to delegate performance reviews. The reviews create a special opportunity to motivate the staff member and clarify expectations for success, not to just rate their work that ultimately ends up in a personnel file folder.

What advice would you give to your 18-year old self?

Determine the difference between a job and a career! Pursue an internship or shadow an employee in the workplace who can share what the job really entails and the promise for advancement. Most jobs in future growth areas have not been identified yet so prepare extensively by learning about more than one skill or profession.