Contradictory trends

I was going to write today about the newly elected mayor of Doncaster who I watched on TV the other day. 

I was going to comment on his right wing politics and a growing concern in this country that the recession and disaffection with the main political parties, is going to result in a turn to the right.

But is this really the trend we are witnessing? Because at the same time as watching this British Democratic Mayor, I was also flicking through the latest update from freecycle - a virtual group which enables you to find takers for your junk.

I recently found two people to take two large Phormium plants which have been slowly dying at my hands for the last 5 years. I wouldn't feel comfortable selling them as they are in need of some TLC. But two very keen gardeners replied to my offer and will be coming to collect the said plants tomorrow.

Since finding someone to take these items off my hands I have noticed fantastic give-aways (literally) such as a large metal bin for burning stuff (slightly grubby), a large LCD TV and three white floor tiles. People are typically polite, friendly and pretty generous. After all, they could get a few quid for some of this stuff on ebay. But instead, they give it away to a good home and, probably, pick up something for free themselves at a future date.

Rather left-wing don't you think? Even, dare I say, communist?

I am not a political commentator but I am interested in behaviour, why certain people respond to a stimulus in one way and other people respond in almost the opposite way. And, of course, as a leader, one must be aware of this. Everything you say and do can, and will, be interpreted in a unique way by everyone you have contact with.

The key is to adapt your style and message to every audience in order to influence the reaction you get rather leaving it to chance. In the past you could have said "Turn right" and people will have done. But today's leaders must persuade, convince, inspire followers which requires an understanding of how what you say is received by the different audiences who hear it. 

It might sound rather political and it is easy to get this wrong. Be thought of as a manipulator and you will lose every audience, even the one which might have wanted to follow you. But get it right and you are simply a masterful communicator, someone who can get a message across to a variety of individuals. 

At a time when people are wondering which way to turn, a leader who can speak and be heard by everyone will be a valuable asset to any company.

Comments

[TV Wall Mounts]

LCD TV's are good, but I prefer plasma. The picture quality is superior and the unit's seem to last longer. Plus they look cool.