Leadership skills Entrepreneurs can learn from politicians.
Entrepreneurs may find it difficult to see politicians in the current political climate with anything other than cynicism. Only 10% of Americans, according to a recent poll by Public Policy Polling, and over 80%, according to a Quinnipiac University poll, think that Congress is doing a good job.
Irrespective of your political beliefs, you are unlikely to seek your political leaders for leadership advice because dissatisfaction crosses ideological and demographic boundaries. Instead, there’s a strong possibility you’ve thought or said something like, “If only our politicians treated their jobs the way I approach my business…” True, political leaders have a lot to learn from business owners. Contrary to popular belief, however, elected officials have much to teach aspiring businesspeople. Indeed, there are numerous instances of incredibly successful business owners who struggled when they had to transition into managing and leading a corporate organisation. And as the business expands, it becomes increasingly challenging for individuals who don’t make the switch early on. Business executives should keep in mind the following important political lessons:
- Never Be Shy to Ask-
You need to be able to inquire, whether you’re running for government or own a business. A considerable portion of a politician’s time is spent soliciting money and votes. Regardless of the position you are running for, you need the necessary funding from donors to support your campaign and a majority of the votes to win. Whether you’re asking a team member to complete a task or a potential consumer to make a purchase, asking for what you want or need is crucial in the world of business. To maximise the likelihood that your request will be accepted positively, it is crucial to make the party you are pitching something compelling.
- You Owe Your Constituents an Accountability-
Like in politics, your constituents are your ultimate source of accountability in business. Voters ultimately have the option to decide whether or not their political leaders are deserving of continuing their political careers because elected officials must run for and win reelection to remain in office. You must be aware of your people’ demands and perform at a level that they perceive adequate if you want to hold public office for a long time and be successful. Leaders must ensure that their company is satisfying consumers’ demands and providing them with good customer service since without customers, there would be no business. Like successful politicians, successful businesspeople should use polls to study consumer preferences and never underestimate the need of a strong ground game. There is really no substitute for good old-fashioned retail politics and face-to-face connection, so make sure you speak to as many individuals as you can.
- Nothing Meaningful Can Be Accomplished by Oneself-
Real political accomplishments come about as a result of group efforts. Even the most successful presidents, governors, senators, and congressmen have struggled to get the support of important constituencies in order to advance their agendas. Even those who gained a reputation for preferring to work alone needed assistance from others to carry out their vision and objective. The same applies to entrepreneurship. Highly successful entrepreneurs are lauded for their successes, but in reality, truly significant achievements in any firm are the output of a full organization rather than the work of any one individual.
Highly successful entrepreneurs and business owners are lauded for their successes, but in reality, truly significant achievements in any firm are the output of a full organization rather than the work of any one individual. Instead of working alone, exceptional leaders try to motivate and inspire others around them, creating and managing teams that can reach the highest altitudes. Instead of attempting to handle your next significant issue or opportunity by yourself, look for those who can aid you in your efforts and give them the freedom to make the most of their gift and skill set.
