This is a real-time post, written as I listen to the fabulous Dayna Steele at Leadership Houston’s Class XXX Kick-off Retreat in Livingston, Texas. Dayna is a radio personality who is also a successful author, business coach, national speaker and entrepreneur.

Some of Dayna’s “rock star principles” are below, although not offered in as enthusiastic and compelling a manner as she presents it:

1) Passion: It’s not about you. It’s about the fans (or your colleagues, family and friends). Remember what’s in it for them, not what’s in it for us. Example: Do you think Steven Tyler wants to sing “Walk This Way” at every concert? He’s passionate about pleasing his fans!

2) Knowledge: Sammy Hagar was the best guest Dayna had on the radio, because he always did his homework on current affairs and topics of interest. Similarly, we should go into interviews or meetings fully prepared.

3) Networking: Relationships are EVERYTHING. The most important thing about networking is doing things for other people. She gives a great example about David Crosby–probably in her book “Finding Your Inner Rock Star.” Talk to everyone, and respect them. No one is below you.

4) Appreciation: Never stop saying thank you. Great Billy Idol story…can’t write it fast enough. Thank you notes are so important. The most powerful tool around is a hand-written thank you note. Send notes to clients, friends and colleagues. It makes a very strong impression. Appreciation is also about doing the right thing. When on tour in Houston, for example, Van Halen visited a young man, Kevin, who was sick with cystic fibrosis. They absolutely made his day. Kevin died two weeks later.

Leadership thoughts Dayna received this morning from her Twitter followers:

-Enlighten your people; let them know what your vision is so they can do their work
-Hire smart people and then get out of the way
-Engage: Great Lady GaGa example, about always, always trying to engage and please her “little monsters.”

Dayna is a compelling, gifted speaker and we’ll all be applying her principles in our daily work and lives!