Leadership versus Management
Interesting piece by Rene Carroll - highlighting the difference between leadership and management - and why perhaps Romney is falling short of expectations in the Republican race. In Rene’s mind - Mitt is the perfect manager - but NOT perceived to be the perfect leader - and certainly not in these times we find ourselves.
On Romney - "He is the perfect model for a ‘leader’ in the good times"
- No one’s enemy, but also no-one’s ‘heart throb’
- An inherent ability to ‘go with the flow’ - but therefore not standing for anything concrete for the masses to vote against
- All strategy and process, no emotional connection or provocative ‘promised land’ dreaming
- A competent debater and communicator with little passion or enthusiasm.
- Everyone understands, but few get fired up or negatively worked up
- Not many are reviled, but few get ‘turned on’
- Brilliant at knocking down his opponents
- His approach is all about ‘not losing’ - but - the election needs to WON
Managers focus on NOT losing, and leaders focus on winning.
The Republican’s need a candidate that:
- Is significantly more credible than Obama
- Has an inspired and sparkling view of the future
- Can connect and engage with both blue collar and white collar Americans
- Can communicate effectively and passionately
- Can bring together the extremes of the Republican party
- Can raise significant funds
- Doesn’t instantly alienate the significant groups who would not usually vote Republican
All these attributes would be very helpful, but the stand-out winning qualities are always:
- An unshakeable belief in their ability to lead change and win
- A bold and consistent message
- An ability to connect with and touch the masses
- Sort the economy
via The Race to the White House.