Man U vs Arsenal Dueling: Lessons for Business Executives
By Garang Atem Ayiik, Juba
It seems Arsenal were going to win, controlling first half by 56% with strong lines of defend and mid-field. There were every signal that Arsenal was going to take home 3 points and improves it rating in the league.
Then came own-goal from Arsenal and an injury from Arsenal critical defender, these and probably second half tactics from Man U technical bench change comparative advantage of winning in favor of Man U.
Such scenarios play out in real business world. This game provides some lessons for leaders running business in a globalized world.
It is not over till done – Business environment are dynamic, today, if it is not exchange rate volatility, it is corrupt and bureaucratic system, multiple check points, arbitrary tax regime or favored incentives. Such unforeseen draw-back like Arsenal injury have a similar impact of changing business leadership.
Business own goal – Imagine a business run by incompetent executive who does know where to kick a ball; a leader who does not know his business defend lines. It is crucial to know that creating wealth for shareholders is sole aim of management – in world of capitalism. If business executive do not know this, he can scores own – goal in favor of his opponents.
Client is the king – Man U and its technical bench were concern delivering a win, this has two fold aims – contractual performance to its shareholders, and to please its fans – base. The losers, dinned in agony and annoyance including possible financial impact to shareholders. Business leaders must at all times have the interests of their various constituents at heart.
Planning and resource utilization – Business executive must plan, as there is injury in football, in business, there is a resignation; As there are strikers, mid-fielders, goalkeepers and defenders, equally in business, there are people who do various roles. Good business leaders must be forward looking and ensure all roles are planned for accordingly including providing for injuries.
It is the team that wins – It is important to assembly a right team, a business needs right chief executive, finance guru, marketing and procurement…….etc. As evidenced by excitement to Man U and its fans, it is a team that wins including Man U noisy and half- dressed fan who was sitting with us in Ocean Hotel during the match.