Simon Sinek has a simple but powerful model for inspirational leadership all starting with a golden circle and the question “Why?” His examples include Apple, Martin Luther King, and the Wright brothers — and as a counterpoint Tivo, which (until a recent court victory that tripled its stock price) appeared to be struggling. I found this talk to be extremely motivating. Most marketing goes from what to how. We make great products (what). They are cheap and powerful (how). Go buy it. Uninspiring. Doesn’t work. All great inspiring leaders and organizations go inside out, from “why” to “what”. We believe in changing the status quo in everything we do. We make our products beautifully designed and user-friendly. We just happen to make a certain product. Want to buy one? Yes!
As correctly idenfied by Simon, this principle (inside out, from why to what) is crucial not only in marketing, but also in social leadership, hiring people, and interpersonal communication. It really makes a big difference. People are the cornerstone of success. And loyal, commited people are the best partners. They work with blood, sweat and tears, and not for the paycheck.
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