Last week’s post – “Are We There Yet?” – lamented about just how slow it can be for business leaders to adapt to digital. In the comment’s section of that day’s post, Bob Bellin articulated his frustration with corporate leadership, citing that the only way that organizations can thrive is with forward thinking from the very top.
As he noted, “(CEOs) can’t sign off and champion decisions they don’t fully understand and embrace.”
But what happens when some of the biggest leaders in America – and the world – actually embrace technology and a spirit of transparency in guiding their organization?
Amazing things.
Here are two great examples: The new chairman of the FCC and the Pope.
Each is setting a tone, making it clear where they stand, and seeking the wisdom and counsel of those who they report to – and serve.
In the case of the Federal Communications Commission, the brand new chairman, Tom Wheeler, wrote a lengthy blog post on his first day on the job: “Opening Day at the FCC: Perspectives, Challenges, and Opportunities.”
You learn precisely what this guy is about, what drives him (an interesting reference to an 1839 poster from Philadelphia that warned people that the interconnection of two rail lines would lead to all sorts of heinous things), and where he stands on the FCC’s role (“…secure the future through the actions of the present – by encouraging investment and innovation; preserving competitive opportunities; protecting consumers; and assuring the opportunities of the new network extend to all.”)
Not much ambiguity there. And Chairman Wheeler uses the same post to introduce his team, explain their roles and functions. A pretty smart move on his first day on the job.
And then there’s the Pope.
If you think our Techsurvey questionnaires can be a little lengthy and meaty, you haven’t seen the Pope’s newest research study of his flock ahead of next year’s synod of bishops. We radio people might think about it as “pre-book research.” The Vatican has put together a survey for everyday Roman Catholics that deals with some key issues that were unmentionable not all that long ago in church quarters.
These include same-sex unions, mixed marriages, single-parent families, divorce and other issues that his constituents are very thinking about but rarely believe the Vatican is considering. While no changes are promised as a result of this survey, the very fact it is coming from the Pope says a lot about the culture he is trying to change.
Every organization – whether a business, a government agency, or even the Catholic Church – has a pulse, a philosophy, and a connection to its constituents or customers.
Hearing it from the person in charge isn’t just a good thing.
It’s essential in today’s world.
It’s important for it come from the very top.
Jacobs Media has consistently walked the walk in the digital space, providing insights and guidance through its well-read national Techsurveys.
In 2008, jacapps was launched - a mobile apps company that has designed and built more than 1,300 apps for both the Apple and Android platforms. In 2013, the DASH Conference was created - a mashup of radio and automotive, designed to foster better understanding of the "connected car" and its impact.
Along with providing the creative and intellectual direction for the company, Fred consults many of Jacobs Media's commercial and public radio clients, in addition to media brands looking to thrive in the rapidly changing tech environment.
Fred was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018.
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Excellent. Communication and clear messaging is essential. Maybe other leaders could follow the example. http://www.broadcastideas.com
Thanks, Clark.