Do managers have an impact?
Can managers help you believe in a plan of action?
Early in 2016 I read an article about some activist investors and how they have been able to generate very impressive returns. The line that got my attention was by Larry Sarbit of Sarbit Advisory Services. He stated, “Who cares where the change is coming from, as long as it is positive for the company.”
This is such a wonderful statement by a business owner! I type that because there needs to be harmony between actions and ideas if an organization is to fully grow in stature and results.
Now let me ask you this question; how can you tell if something is positive for your organization?
Is it how the actions and attitude of a manager positively impacts all of the staff?
Some changes could be positive for the company – therefore good for investors – but opposed to the values and morals of the business’ founders, senior executives and quite possibly a majority of shareholders.
A case in point, the move to legalise marijuana. A change in the legal landscape.
As an experienced greenhouse and drip irrigation user, I can see huge potential for sales of equipment and expertise to new growers.
However, while acknowledging that the war on drugs has already been lost and it makes sense to decriminalise possession of this drug, I do not believe it is right to make it easier for people to smoke it.
The hypocrisy of a government spending millions to stop people smoking a legal substance – tobacco – while encouraging the smoking of another, potentially harmful substance is something I cannot ignore.
No matter how big the potential profit, I could not take advantage of that particular change, even if it meant losing investors.
You have an interesting view on this Peter. I was thinking mainly of small business, that is those businesses that are owner operated. Due to this the new ideas would not be opposed to the values and morals of the business’ founders.
Thanks for your input.