Experience vs. Charisma
There are times, whether in a country or in a cooperation, that the current and desired state of affairs requires a very special kind of leader.
In these times where constituents, (citizens, employees, shareholders, customers) are disillusioned, lost, worried, even in despair ~ it seems the best solution is found in a high integrity charismatic leader.
This kind of leader can emphasize with the reality of the current state, but at the same time lead all to move toward a bold positive vision of the future. People want to be lead by leaders who can chart a path forward, inspire, surround them selves with diverse talent and most impressively get the best out of us all.
It is fascinating how credible leaders with proven experience and expertise but with out charisma, lose ground to the one with it. People become tired, bored, and even skeptical of the candidates who want to show their expertise and experience because it all just seems so status quo. Sort of unfair in a way, but it is all about timing. A great leader for one time in history may not be the right leader for a different more challenging period.
Our friends to the south are obviously looking for a high integrity charismatic leader.
While it may seem on the surface that they are choosing between experience vs. charisma, I see it differently. To me, they are obviously looking for a the right person for these challenging times, who will positively and constructively lead the entire country forward, rather than a person who has a high level of expertise and experience.
Experience vs. Charisma ? It is all about timing.
Dan MacDonald
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Sunday, January 20, 2008
US Economy Sure to Affect Canadian Business Growth
US Economy Sure to Affect Canadian Business Growth in the Near Term
I must admit I am very proud of Canada's economic track record. Our consistent federal and provincial budget surpluses, debt maintenance, low interest rates, commodity price strength, and political stability position Canada as one of the world's strongest economies.
I also admit, that as a consumer the strength of the Canadian dollar against the USD feels pretty good after 30+ years.
That all being said, there are some significant challenges facing Canada in the near term.
The US is by for our largest trading partner. Weakness therefore in the US market directly affects trade. Canadian exporters are bracing for a double whammy. 1. The high Canadian dollar is eating into margins, 2. Export revenues will likely decrease do to the US economic downturn. The result, lower top and bottom line for many exporters.
There is no easy answer here.
Exporters have been dealing with the high dollar for several quarters now, and at the same time have been looking to diversify export markets beyond the US. Easier said than done, but necessary.
The economists and politicians are attempting to sound realistic and not add to the pessimism, but their guidance seems to have a shelf life measured in hours.
Canadian businesses who rely heavily on exports to the US, must rework their short and medium term financial assumptions. Airing conservatively that the Canadian dollar continues at par would be a wise move.
Businesses need to get closer to key customers, from a communications point of view, to proactively monitor their corporate health and the most likely impact on your top and bottom line.
Strap in - she is going to be a wild ride for sure.
Dan MacDonald
I must admit I am very proud of Canada's economic track record. Our consistent federal and provincial budget surpluses, debt maintenance, low interest rates, commodity price strength, and political stability position Canada as one of the world's strongest economies.
I also admit, that as a consumer the strength of the Canadian dollar against the USD feels pretty good after 30+ years.
That all being said, there are some significant challenges facing Canada in the near term.
The US is by for our largest trading partner. Weakness therefore in the US market directly affects trade. Canadian exporters are bracing for a double whammy. 1. The high Canadian dollar is eating into margins, 2. Export revenues will likely decrease do to the US economic downturn. The result, lower top and bottom line for many exporters.
There is no easy answer here.
Exporters have been dealing with the high dollar for several quarters now, and at the same time have been looking to diversify export markets beyond the US. Easier said than done, but necessary.
The economists and politicians are attempting to sound realistic and not add to the pessimism, but their guidance seems to have a shelf life measured in hours.
Canadian businesses who rely heavily on exports to the US, must rework their short and medium term financial assumptions. Airing conservatively that the Canadian dollar continues at par would be a wise move.
Businesses need to get closer to key customers, from a communications point of view, to proactively monitor their corporate health and the most likely impact on your top and bottom line.
Strap in - she is going to be a wild ride for sure.
Dan MacDonald
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