In the latest Business Week, columnists Jack and Suzy Welch look for takeaways from the Obama campaign organization. They see three lessons business leaders can take from the election. [these comments have nothing to do with ideology, everything to do with organization and leadership]
Here is a summary, for the entire column, hit the link.
First lesson--clear, consistent vision. Obama's message was simple and aspirational, while McCain had difficulty explaining his views in clear terms.
Second lesson--execution. His advisers from the outset were best in class, always prepared, agile, and where they needed to be. Another bigger execution lesson--Hillary thought she'd win the old-fashioned way by taking the big states. He figured out an unexpected way to gain an edge--in the usually overlooked caucuses. [GM, also, lots of volunteers on the street] The business analog couldn't be more apt. So often companies think they've nailed execution by doing the same old "milk run" better and better. But winning execution means doing the milk run perfectly--and finding new customers and opening new markets.
Finally, this election reinforces the value of friends in high places. Obama's relationship with the media made a difference. In business, you can't succeed without the endorsement of your board. You need to start any leadership initiative with your high level friends firmly by your side.
8:55:04 AM 
|
|
