Can the Presidential Election Teach Us About Strategy?

We are not halfway through 2007 and already the 2008 presidential election is making headlines. There are currently eight democratic candidates and ten republican candidates, with several undecided contenders contemplating a run. Political strategists are working overtime to position their candidate for a successful campaign. From the moment a Presidential hopeful begins contemplating a run for the White House, every political, and almost every personal, decision is strategically planned. They leave little to chance and work closely with strategist to avoid potential pitfalls.

Unfortunately, some business leaders fail to follow this premise when considering organizational changes. Oftentimes, these leaders institute new business models without a clear plan for implementation and reorganization. To avoid such pitfalls, I recommend my clients know at least four things before considering major organizational changes:

1. Know your position in the market. Just as Presidential hopefuls convene an exploratory committee before announcing their intentions, business leaders should convene marketing research to “test the waters” and evaluate the profitability of the change. 
2. Know your competitor’s position in the market. Presidential candidates are well versed on their opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. Business leaders should be just as knowledgeable about their competitor’s position in the market.  
3. Know where your constitutes stand on major issues. Discontentment in the strategic direction of an organization can hinder its growth. CEO’s must garner support from their constitutes before embarking on a change strategy.
4. Know how to navigate change without losing control. Strategy formulation and strategic implementation equals change …and change is hard. When managing change leaders should remain flexible enough to adjust if necessary, yet rigid enough to keep the organization on track.

Although the election hails only one winner, visionary leaders can gain insight from every candidate because they all have one thing in common… a strategy to win.

 

 What do you think, we want to hear from you?