CIO Wisdom: Best Practices from Silicon Valley's Leading IT Experts

Chapter 10. IT Workforce

by Dean Lane

The Marine corporal came to a halt in front of Lieutenant Lane's desk and snapped to attention. Slightly irritated by the interruption, Lieutenant Lane glanced up and asked, “What is it, Johnson?” Corporal Johnson began to explain why he needed time off later in the day. The Lieutenant stopped him in mid-sentence, because Johnson always had a reason for needing time off. “Corporal, I have already heard every excuse you have to offer on this subject! Go away and come back when you are prepared to give me a legitimate reason, one that I have never heard before, and I will consider your request.” About 30 minutes later, Johnson again snapped to attention in front of Lieutenant Lane's desk. “Okay, Johnson,” ...