I used to reference America’s long running fueding clans when discussing a client and their most bitter competitor. Said client (yes, they know I’m writing about them, I always ask permission/change details and never ever spill state secrets or name names) did their best work when they had a worthy adversary to challenge their success and failure rates. With the economic downturn though, their long term sparring partner closed up shop leaving my client and their competitive energy and drive floundering.
Suddenly, the corporation they loved to hate had packed it all in leaving them without anyone to growl at. Think of Krystle without Alexis (minus the shoulder pads and hair spray) and you have a pretty good idea of what my client’s collective energy level was like. ’80s soap opera references aside, the executive team became sluggish instead of competitive until something changed – and not in a good way. Business slowed down significantly and instead of continuing to push forward for new and expanded prospects- they turned all of the drive inward and started bickering with each other. And by bickering I mean undermining each other’s best efforts to the extent that they began losing business in a big way.
Their competitive spirit now became a source of internal strife. Visiting their offices felt like stepping onto the set of a Spaghetti Western, with differing babbling languages spoken, a clear sense of unease and never knowing when friends had become most bitter enemies. Instead of Hatfield against McCoy, they’d suddenly become Hatfield against Hatfield (or McCoy against McCoy depending on your preference).
I’d like to say that things changed fairly quickly- only they didn’t. Months of excruciating internal strife led to a lower bottom line followed by layoffs. Things seem to finally be evening out and business is even picking up despite the general downturn – but only after leaving a once vibrant corporation battle scarred and perpetually suspicious and short tempered.
My point? Things are tough all over. Projects are drying up, funding is scarce and well, we won’t even discuss the markets. The last thing to do is to turn against your co-workers or most loyal colleagues. If you’re motivated by external sources and can’t find a worthy adversary, choose a fictional one or one at a level you hope to someday reach. At the very least, set a clear goal for yourself and fight that good fight instead of fighting with friends.
Convivially yours,
Rachel
Filed under: Manners | Tagged: '80s tv, Alexis and Krystle fued, Dynasty, Hatfield McCoy feud
