June 12, 2011

Leadership | Centuries Ago

They May Still Live Among Us

I found a document a couple of years ago and mentioned it here. You may not have seen the post and I think it's imperative that you do. This could be the earliest known document on business strategy.

The authors, date and origin cannot be verified but the information is just as useful today as when it was first penned. The work discusses leadership types and perhaps pointing to its age and origin, the titles are in Latin.

Scaredycate Closedoorius

This is the manager who has an “open door policy” when no one is actually in her office. Once the meeting begins, doors are sealed. Anything discussed in meetings are filtered through the perception of the boss to then be translated to staff, customers or clients as her ideas.

Likedbyallorus Needium

Great guy, super guy, always smiling, always has time for you. He deals with no actual crises. When the bullets fly, he is unfortunately very busy with other issues. As long as things are rosy and fun it’s a great place to work but conflict or client issues are brushed neatly under the finely appointed corporate non-answer area rug.

Unwantiate Inputarium

The office is adorned with a bright four color bound document which outlines the company’s story, plans and mantra. Embossed on the front is the phrase “Our People Are Our Strongest Asset”. Through the threshold of the lobby is where that mantra dies a rapid painful death to make room for Unwantiate Inputarium’s benevolent dictatorship.

Lackus Spinearia 

Much like Pompom Nobadnoos, this type of leader sits in his corner office praising people when things are good but is unable to make one concrete decision of any substance that will actually move the company forward. Some are amazed a human can stand upright with so little support in one's back. He thinks he’s pulling it off and fooling no one but the big boss, Vacatium Spinearia.

The best way to build a company is through strong respected and fair leadership, solid strategy and an atmosphere of co-creation but not everyone shares that view.

Recognize Anyone?

Kneale Mann

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