Smile!

On page B5 of today's Toronto Globe and Mail newspaper is an announcement by UBS Investment Bank. It caught my eye because of how glum the three executives pictured appear. The announcement is for the promotions of Jim Estey, Rick Meslin and Alain Auclair, something you would think would make them smile.

The same paper has a clue as to why these men aren't happy:

GENEVA -- Swiss bank UBS AG, already writing down the value of some assets by $3.4-billion (U.S.), warned investors yesterday that its fourth-quarter results may be hit by a further downturn in the U.S. housing and mortgage markets.

but I would argue that now, more than ever, is the time to be showing some energy. Maybe a sunny smile conveys the wrong message, but they should at least be displaying steely resolve or iron determination.

The leader's attitude has everything to do with the success of the organization. This is just as true for your internal team as the external shareholders. If you can't see your way through to a better future, then start planning until you do. While business is all about being objective and hard headed, leading is all about inspiring and energizing the team. This may be particularly difficult if you are introverted or not a people person, but it is vital to your success. If you can't be the cheerleader for your team, find someone who can and work with them.

So, smile!