It's about success, not about being right

Corona is one of the most popular beer brands in the world, yet unfortunately Corona’s brand seems to have suffered from the name’s likeness to “coronavirus.” On the other hand, Clorox stock is one of only seven S&P 500 stocks to rise during the brutal selloff fueled by the novel coronavirus, as investors bet the coronavirus epidemic will boost demand for bleach and disinfectant wipes.

Some things, like fire, which can cook our food and also burn us, are double-edged swords.


Now and then, event top performers must be moved off the team. They perform, but they scorch and burn relationships along the way.


I’m happy to say that I’ve only done this on a handful of rare occasions, but I have done it. Having the wrong person is always worse than having one less person. Those were key leadership moments for me to prove to the team that I would not tolerate dangers within the team.


Don’t put a Band-Aid on gangrene.

No matter how you approach it and no matter how accomplished you are as a leader, removing someone from his role is never easy.

When you're in charge, it's easy to fall in love with your own ideas and to stop taking serious input from the team. A leader understands that no plan will ever be successful unless everyone is on board and committed. It's about success, not about being right. 

Most everything I do is aimed at intensely close teamwork which builds a high level of trust. There is something fundamental about having someone else with you, watching your back, to whom you are loyal and accountable as well. 

I am grateful I have a trusted colleague. Two people with complementary skills and abilities working together toward a common goal - we're twice more effective than as an individual alone. We leverage each other's skills and presence; we cover each other. Without one, the other not only has no help, but is also more vulnerable. Consider successful working partners like Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard, William Proctor and James Gamble. Bill and Hillary Clinton are also an excellent example. They worked, travelled together and consulted each other on key issues and decisions. They covered each other's backs and they protected and encouraged each other.

The core of influence is trust. You cannot lead without it.