Well, as I thought about the sessions, I was reminded of some of Lee Iacocca's comments in his 2007 book, Where Have All the Leaders Gone? and it got me thinking. Is there a connection between the current state of the economy and the business world and the current state of "leadership"?
In his book, Iacocca lays out his "C" list of qualities as a test of leadership:
- Curiosity - listening to those outside of the 'yes sir' crowd in the inner circle
- Creativive - willingness to try something differenct
- Communicate - facing reality and telling the truth
- Character - knowing the difference between right and wrong and having the wherewithall to do the right thing
- Courage - "conjones" versus bluster
- Conviction - passion and fire in your belly
- Charisma - the quality that makes people want to follow you versus glitz and flash
- Competence - knowing what you're doing
- Common sense - the ability to reason
I don't think many will argue that we've collectively been faced with an economic crisis for many months. So the question I have for you is this. Is the current unhealthy state of business and the economic crisis we're staring down the throat of the result of too many managers and not enough leaders? Are we expereincing a shortage of executives with an abundance of Iacocca's "C" list? In my experience, I think it's a contributing factor.
I'd be interested in your opinion and what you think should be done about it.
Congratulations on the launch of your new Blog. I look forward to reading your posts as much as I have enjoyed our conversations about sales and Bus. Dev.
ReplyDeleteI wish you much success in this exciting new step.
Miles Austin
As usual, let me know how I can help.
Congratulations on your blog!
ReplyDeleteI don't know if the state of our economy can be attributed to poor leadership. However, we all can choose how we react in a crisis. If we each act as leaders in our own lives, practicing the C-traits you highlight, we can do our part in making the world a better place.
Good Ideas...
ReplyDeleteI have one more leadership idea above all others... the ability to innovate. Every great idea began with an invention. The ability to look at the obvious and connect the dots, see the patterns and solve the problem is the first step. The second step is to sell the idea to others, who want the end result. Inventors must build a relationship with business leaders and communicate the advantages of the new product above all others in its class. The greatest business leaders are the greatest project managers, who inspire the talents of others to create a great product, a great business model, and a great distribution and sells organization.
For example, Walt Disney was one example of a ordinary man who could inspire others to create innovative products. He turned a cartoon business into an entertainment industry.
Steve Jobs turned the personal computer into a world wide industry.
Lee Iacocca lead a team to change the ordinary Ford Comet into the Ford Mustang, and the Hippie Customized Van into the Mini Van,
Thomas Edison, turned the gaslight industry into a light bulb industry. He turned the basement power generator into an off-site, regional-wide electric power company.
Business leadership need to connect the dots... what are your thoughts?