There can definitely be some degree of denial involved with business leadership – like you say, either they’ll hide behind the excuse that they’re “different” or they’ll think that they have to be this all-seeing, all-knowing entity. It’s sad, because ironically, this type of thinking is restrictive rather than smart.

The business leader that realises that he/she is only human, can only know so much and that all businesses – although different – follow similar patterns and processes is the business leader who thrives.

My argument always was that that industry specific knowledge
is what probably moved them toward the edge of oblivion in the first place and
what they needed was experience and knowledge in good business practices and
that was exactly what I offered. My specialty being materials management has
the same basic principles that cross every industry lines; bar none. I will
grant you that there are specific uniquenesses about every industry and each
business but strong principles cross those lines and are applicable in every
organization out there.

Often a hard sell to those that hold this belief and the
objection to budge off this belief can be very harmful. The closed mind is a
hard nut to crack, especially in a strong and smart individual that isn’t open
to change or the realities of his organization.

Howard

Great thoughts Jim. There is a difference between confidence and arrogance. I’ve always found it interesting that the number of blind-spots which exist in an organization seems to be proportional to the extent to which hubris overwhelms humility. Something we should all think about. Thanks Jim. 

Hi Greg:

Non-profits, especially faith based organizations often seem to fall into the trap you described. What they need to realize is paying attention the business side of the equation is what allows the cause to be advanced. I have watched many a great organization struggle due to being dismissive about the value of sound business practice. Both the business and the cause can and should coexist for mutual benefit. Great observations Greg. Thanks for sharing. 

Hi James:

Thanks for your comments. Following are a few thoughts for your consideration. The time when you felt you had no competition was a time of delusion – you always had it, things were going well and you just chose to ignore it. Markets change and so must business models, strategies, and tactics. In most situations the economy doesn’t impact sales, but a company’s lack of adaptive behavior does. I know my comments might seem harsh, but they’re intended to help you see things from a different perspective and change how you’re presently approaching your market. Best wishes James.