Symbols of Leadership--Keep It Real!

               

I'm writing you as I look out my Hotel Window to our magnificent  Capital.  As often as I've been to Washington, I can still report my child-like marvel at the brilliance of seeing our illuminated Capital building and monuments.  Amidst the seeming bombardment of tragedy in the news, these bright beacons, somehow ground us through their strong architecture and remind us of the purity and courage of the American Spirit.     It's easy to get disenchanted with our political climate, but somehow I forget all of that, when I glance at our nation's capital at twilight and recapture my belief in goodness and honesty.  Indeed, every organization and institution should have their unique symbol of leadership and vision.  Walt Disney did when he told his construction crew to "Build the Castle First" "They Need to see the Castle".   Symbols generate emotional connections with us.  They inspire us and they speak to Vision.

During a time when we wonder why our elected leaders don't always speak the truth, I also shook my head as I came into the Capital, at a homeless man who held up a rather novel and honest sign to solicit contributions

"Keep It Real!  I won't lie.  I really need a Beer" 

Frankly, I  smiled a little and wondered "How's that working for you?" and Is Honesty always the best policy?     Then,  I caught a glimpse of Mrs. Clinton's New Political Button "I'm In to Win".  I liked it!  Simple,  Direct and somehow it generated an emotional response in me that  a  "Woman could Win and be President" (whether I'm a Mrs. Clinton fan or not).

Evaluate your Company's Simple Bumper Sticker Message and/or Your Symbol.  Does It create  an emotional response?  Show your message/symbol to official or unofficial  test groups and ask them  what are the first words that come to their mind when they see or hear it?  Do we see your Castle like an illuminated monument ?  Does it  give us hope when the day to day muddles us down? Oh and yes are you "Keeping it Real and Honest?