So you have planned a fishing trip to one of the finest trout streams in the country. You have purchased the appropriate licenses, clothing, fishing gear and high tech breathable waders. You have read all of the books about your quarry. You have spoken with others who have fished these waters. You have even hired the finest area guide to give you the highest opportunity for success. Now, as you step into the rippling waters of the trout fishing promised land, would you throw away all of your preparation and follow the advice you read about from a very successful off-shore tuna fisherman? After all, the fish he catches weigh upwards of 1000 lbs. and everyone wants to "catch the big one". Heck this guy is so good he has his own TV show about catching tuna. I mean, a tuna is a fish and a brook trout is a fish... so what would be wrong with using squid as bait here in this beautiful mountain stream? Just because no one else ever has? You are a progressive thinker, and you understand that just because it hasn't been done doesn't always mean it can't be done. This will be your crowning glory as the first mover on using 12 inch live squid in the trout stream. In no time you will catch that trophy Bluefin Tuna, hiding in the deep hole over there, that everyone else has overlooked.
While this may seem ridiculous to anyone who has even a basic knowledge of fishing, it is the same basic principle we see in leaders who know they need to move their company into e-commerce. They read and research everything they can get their hands on. They speak with their peers, in industry and out. They research and find consultants to help them with the integration. Then, for some reason, they begin to give direction that really seems to be out of context with their needs. Whether it comes from an inherent need to be the decision maker, or a displaced belief that the article they just read in Harvard Business Review has more relevance, no one knows.What is obvious to almost everyone except the new leader is that the entire project hangs on this new point of contention.
A. Don't be this leader.
B. If you see this happening to your organization, don't keep your mouth shut.
C. If the contention is great, reach out for and share other opinions.
D. To use another sports analogy... Don't fumble on the one yard line.
Business, like fishing requires great preparation. Many times it will also require specialized tools. Although decision making may seem a solitary effort, you owe it to others to make sure you have a thorough understanding of the goal ahead.
In closing, see if you can find the business corollary for the following fishing habits.
1. Know what you are fishing for.
2. Bring the right equipment.
3. Use the right bait.
4. The right size hook makes a difference.
5. Ask others what they have been successful with.
6. Just getting a bite is not success.
7. You still need to set the hook and land the fish.
8. If all else fails, hire a professional guide (and do what they say).
