Politics and Business are so similar in many ways. Sure politics is much dirtier and generally played by less ethical individuals and yet the similarities are often uncanny. Perhaps a brief point-by-point comment on this subject will open a new perspective on this subject. Below are a few similarities to help the thinking juices flow and allow some conceptual thoughts.
1.) In politics you must canvas the area using data about the voters; in business you use demographic software to gather information about the customer.
2.) In politics you must get the voter to make a decision to vote for your candidate; in business you must get the consumer to choose your product or service over your competitor.
3.) In politics you must employ multiple methods to reach the voter; In business any good marketing program uses multiple media, mediums and methods to reach the consumer.
4.) In politics you must show how your candidate is better and different; In business you must show how your brand is best.
5.) In politics you must get those people to the polls to vote; in business you must get those customers in the door of your business to buy something.
6.) In politics you must win or you are forgotten; In business you must beat your competition and the customer must buy from you or you go out of business.
7.) In politics the customer decides with his or her vote; in business your voter buys your product or service with his or her dollar.
I hope this philosophical discussion allows you to see business from a different perspective and if you are in business and considering politics, forget it. Business is a much better game than politics and as a politician might say; You Can Trust Me on This in 2006.
