In the early 90s, the little town of Wabasha, Minnesota was “put on the map.” Thanks to the movie Grumpy Old Men, all of the great things about the state of Minnesota were brought to the attention of a national audience.
But Walter Matthau and Jack Lemmon did far more than boost the ice fishing industry and increase Minnesota’s tourism economy. They also provided an excellent case study for corporate life – an example that is played out every day in boardrooms across the country.
In the movie, two lifelong neighbors (and occasional friends) let pride and ego interfere with their better judgment. Rather than adhering to the “let bygones be bygones” philosophy, they spent the majority of their time at each other’s throats. This was humorous for the audience, but can become rather cumbersome when encountered in the professional world.
In a competitive market and temperamental economy, every leader knows that pride and ego are critical to success. And yet, our greatest strengths for business success can often become our greatest weaknesses.
Competition is a natural part of business. But, at times, we let competition and the need to “win” cloud our better judgment. Our overwhelming desire to beat a competitor or close a sale can overshadow our fundamental need to do what is right. Old feuds can hinder a productive, positive relationship. Perceived differences in opinion can stifle growth for your company’s bottom line.
In the fictitious story line set in beautiful Wabasha, it took a tragedy to set aside the old hurts. In business, it can take a crisis. But, as we all know, at that point it can be too late. As business leaders, we have a responsibility to remain level-headed in any situation. We have a responsibility to not let personal sentiments stand in the way of professional success. Essentially, we have a responsibility to remember that “it’s business, not personal.”
As our economy starts to rebound, the need for strong relationships and equitable partnerships with clients will become paramount to success. With an increase in available employment and professional opportunities, the necessity for positive working relationships with employees will be vital to sustainability. Our customers and employees will look to us to set the standard for behavior and professional courtesy – and that standard will only be as high, or as low, as we allow it to be.
Our competitors set expectations that we strive to match and surpass in the fight for a top spot on the corporate totem pole. But, we shouldn’t let our competitive spirit encumber our collaborative commitment.
In one of the more poetic scenes in Grumpy Old Men, Walter Matthau shouts over his fence to Jack Lemmon and says, “Do me a favor! Pull your bottom lip over your head and swallow!” This poignant moment is one that many of us have experienced during bouts of strong competition and overwhelming frustration. And yet, as leaders, we have an obligation to our staff, our clients, and our competitors to keep those sentiments to ourselves.
As we continue to watch the market and develop ways to increase our bottom line, we should all try to avoid being just another corporate “grumpy old man.”
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