I was thinking the other day that some leaders behave just like cartoon characters.

 

Here are some that come to mind. Can you think of others?

 

Mr. Magoo – a loveable character but his nearsightedness, compounded by his stubborn refusal to admit the problem, gets him into constant trouble.

  • The leader – someone with no long-term vision which causes the organization to drift aimlessly. The lack of a defined goal is uninspiring and the followers are not actively engaged.

 

Elmer Fudd – his aim is to hunt Bugs, but he usually ends up seriously injuring himself and others, as well as, antagonizing other characters.

  • The leader – a person whose “win at all costs” attitude on one target ignores other important issues. So while they may win the battle they lose the war and this tunnel vision damages the organization.

 

Wile E. Coyote – uses absurdly complex contraptions and elaborate plans to pursue his prey.

  • The leader – a micro-manager that focuses on systems, rules and regulations to accomplish a task. Followers spend their time complying with rules; imagination and innovation are non-existent.

 

The Grinch – someone with a coarse, greedy attitude.

  • The leader – someone focused on establishing and maintaining power. They make sure they are the center of attention and the organizational victories belong to them; they don’t share the glory.

 

Homer Simpson – he is crude, overweight, incompetent, clumsy, lazy, and ignorant; however, he is essentially a decent man.

  • The leader – they have been elevated to their position of leadership by forces other than ability. They will not acknowledge their weaknesses and feel no need to heed advice from others with greater knowledge.

 

Bugs Bunny – carelessness, heedlessness, indifference, or casual unconcern cocky and brash

  • The leader – these leaders believe they are bullet-proof. They approach difficulties with the attitude that because of who they are problems will be solved. They view major problems as minor set-backs.

Organizational success is dependent on effective leadership. So, if you’re being led by a cartoon character, you may need a new leader.

 

Have a Great Blahless Day!