A portfolio of projects should balance those of high, moderate and low risk, but this does not mean in equal numbers. The best balance will differ among companies and depends in large part on resources, executive personalities in terms of risk averse versus risk loving, and opportunities.

When dealing with regulatory agencies and the public it is always best to try not to bury issues or problems, but to be transparent and to discuss how you intend to deal with them and how you will keep them informed.

Anyone entering a crisis situation should remember the lessons from the Tylenol poisoning experience: be open, honest, and sincere.

Don't tell someone to do something ASAP without providing a specific deadline as some will interpret this request as "do it by next month" and others as "do it tonight, even all night if needed" and it may only be required in a week.

Learn the many ways to avoid playing "telephone tag," as that is a wasteful and frustrating game. For example, set a time for a call with the secretary or person involved by an email or fax, or put a proposal in writing if it is possible to avoid a call altogether.