What can managers learn from elected officials? Well, there are a few straight-forward and time-tested techniques that work in politics and that can be used in a business setting. Just like a good campaign slogan, these 21 lessons are seemingly simple but convey a big message.
- Call people by name.
- Find out what they want.
- Give them your time.
- Go to all parts of your community.
- Listen carefully.
- Don’t try to do too much.
- Keep in touch.
- Simplify your message.
- Maintain key principles.
- Think several steps ahead.
- Recognize your supporters.
- Listen to your opponents.
- Adjust your strategies so they correspond to, or reshape, reality.
- Marshal your resources.
- Consider new perspectives.
- Develop your skills.
- Pay attention to those who may feel excluded.
- Understate your case.
- Avoid convoluted explanations.
- Don’t accord too much weight to your greatest fans and critics.
- Lead and serve.
Michael Wade writes Execupundit.com, an eclectic combination of management advice, observations, and links. A partner with the Phoenix firm of Sanders Wade Rodarte Consulting Inc., he has advised private and public-sector organizations for more than 30 years.
