Here are some people making headlines and my take on whether they were customer-focused or boss-focused. Just like brands, those that are focused on delivering value to the customer win. Those who consciously or unconsciously play to their bosses inevitably fail.
|
“Brand” |
Boss |
Customer |
Verdict
|
|
George Tenet, former CIA director |
Bush, Cheney, Rumsfield |
American public |
Boss-focused: tarnished reputation
|
|
Rosie O’Donnell, outgoing “View” host |
Barbara Walters |
viewers |
Customer-focused: will sign big new deal with another network
|
|
David Chase, creator of the “Sopranos” |
HBO |
viewers |
Customer-focused; will develop amazing movies
|
|
Robert Nardelli, former CEO, Home Depot |
Board |
consumers |
Boss-focused; customer value precedes $$$
|
|
Don Imus, radio shock jock |
His ego |
listeners |
Boss-focused; will make short-lived comeback, then retire
|
Who else should be on the list — and would you rate them as boss-focused or customer focused? Please share!