First Impressions
I learned recently that WalMart is now seeking to buy as much produce as possible from the local community. That's right, the individual stores try to support the local economy, buy their produce locally, and hopefully build good will. It is not a secret that WalMart is regarded by many as the dark side. Kinda ironic.. many of these people who hate WalMart consider MicroSoft as an example of a great american company. For my part, I think both are somewhere between the dark and light.. but enough about that. This post is really about the impact of first impressions. When you consider how Walmart is received these days when they open a new store in a community... well, WalMart is swimming upstream. Compare them to Norstroms department stores.. Norstroms comes into a new community and uses it first moments to have a huge charity ball and raise money for local needs. They create a very nice first impression... then really don't have to do too much to maintain their good community image.. while WalMart comes in a pool of conflict.. is often accused of hurting local businesses.. etc.. Not a very good impression usually. and despite their efforts to help communities.. well.. swimming upstream.
So.. whats the leadership lesson.. Get things started right from the beginning. Getting the nod for leading others can not come with conflict.. or other distractions. Leaders need not only to lead well, but to insure that they have the best start possible.. If not... it may take years to overcome.. just ask WalMart about their image..
Posted at 10:11PM Aug 22, 2006 by mowen in General |