January 20th

It’s my birthday.  It’s also the day we inaugurate our Presidents.  We’ve been doing it on January 20th for as many years as I remember (and that’s too many!) 

So why the hype now?  Are we all caught up in the fervor of hope?  Of a new beginning?  Of change?  Of pomp and circumstance?

There’s a message there for management.

Whether you favor Obama or not – look at the leadership style.  What he has created is pomp, circumstance, gala, almost a page from how Hitler came into office and controlled the Germans – with infrastructure, torch ceremonies, youth organizations, etc.   Now, I want you to understand clearly that I am NOT, I repeat NOT comparing Obama to Hitler’s hate and violence.  I am compraing the clever ways in which they led people into following them.

FDR’s new deal wasn’t as exciting.  That’s why I’ve chosen to use Hitler as an example of how to get people to follow you.  Promise them good things.  Give them hope.  Give them something to hang onto.  Give them new jobs – create them however you can.

So, what the h… does this have to do with Project Management?  PLENTY

You need to excite, invite, persuade, and promise rewards for following your plan.  The more exciting and interesting you make it, the better the possibility of getting those you wish to involve, become motivated and involved.  Stir up the energy!

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About the Author

ArLyne Diamond

Multi-faceted like a Diamond, ArLyne Diamond, Ph.D. is internationally known for her consulting which enables people to get the most out of themselves and others. She is a consultant, educator, trainer and noted public speaker. Dr. Diamond has had two of her books published, well over 200 articles and is frequently quoted by others. (Google ArLyne Diamond for a partial list.) She appears regularly on radio and TV as a content expert. Her clients range in industry, size, and success. From New York to California, From USA to Europe, Israel and Asia, she deals with all issues that enable people to work more effectively with each other. She has been successfully consulting to high tech and low tech companies, manufacturing facilities, retail and professional practices, government agencies, and sales organizations for well over twenty years. In addition, she is a highly acclaimed Professor of Management, Marketing and Psychology courses, having taught at several universities and colleges throughout California. ArLyne works with CEOs, leaders and managers individually and in groups. Her content ranges from all issues related to leading and managing people, processes, products and programs to strategy and tactics for individual professional development. In addition, she counsels, trains and coaches people dealing with issues of diversity, discrimination, sexual harassment, conflict and change. Known to be warm, witty and highly practical, clients find her approach refreshing and useful. She is well received at all levels in a company, and her evaluations of her workshops and courses are consistently outstanding. Dr. Diamond founded Diamond Associates in 1981. Information can be found by visiting her website: www.DiamondAssociates.net. She can be reached by e-mail at ArLyneD@aol.com, or by telephoning 408-554-0110 or e-mailing ArLyne@DiamondAssociates.net.
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3 Responses to “January 20th”

  1. Interesting correlation. ArLyne noted the similarities, and I would like to highlight the differences which are equally important.

    I’m not too familiar with Hitler’s techniques, but I from what I do remember he used the negative emotions of fear, blame, and xenophobia.

    Obama’s message has been one of hope, openness, and cooperation.

    Method DOES matter, in more ways than one.

    Josh Nankivel
    pmStudent.com

    Reply

  2. Josh, you don’t think he isn’t using fear, and blame? How about the dire state of the economy repeated constantly and the b.s. about global warming – chicken little the sky is falling down and give government more power.

    Reply

  3. Whoa! This is sounding less and less like it is about project management!Please!
    Stop!
    Jim

    Reply

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