My local paper afforded me an opportunity to share some thoughts on the power of good communication and collaboration. 

Near my home in the wine country of Northern California there has been a decade long battle between an Indian tribe that wanted to put in a casino on their land and the neighbors who enjoy one of the most scenic and wealthy vineyard and winery regions in the world.  The tribe’s rather combative and secretive tribal leader and local government, environmental groups and wine industry associations duked it out for years.

When the casino parking structure suddenly went up, as if over night, the tribal leader finally admitted they had been “less than truthful”.  Not a good way to establish good relationships.  Back and forth it went over zoning, land use, access, fire and police protection, liquor permits and more.  

Then something very different happened. 

 A new tribal leader was elected. He set about on a purposeful, and targeted effort to personally visit opponents to the casino project, to listen to and understand their objections, to offer collaborative solutions.  He had an uphill battle since his predecessor had created so much ill will.  He persisted. He was open, honest and transparent where his predecessor had not been. 

Today I read that the casino has been given permits to expand their operations in exchange for additional revenue and other concessions to the county.  What a turn around!  Whether or not you are in favor of casinos, this story has lessons for all leaders.  Three that I can think of off the top of my head are: 

1. Opinion and lack of cooperation can be turned around through open, honest communication and collaborative means. 

2. Leaders set the tone for all organizations and along with boards of directors lead in ways that are ethical and honest or something else. 

3. Leaders need not have an MA in business from Harvard.  This former heavy equipment operator has earned the public praise of many government leaders, environmental groups and wine associations.  

What lessons can you take from this story?  I am sure I have missed many.  Please comment below and give us your “take-aways”.   

Part two of the story will be in the next blog. There is a lot to learn from everyday life and the daily newspaper about excellent management and leadership.  

Tags: Communication, Management Skills //