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No one ever promised that life and business would be easy or that love and war was fair. Once upon a time men would prove their worth in society through either their wealth (usually in terms of land) or their strength (through their military skills). The days of bloody battles over resources have ended but the concepts of business and war is still very much alive. We men (or woman) still put on our armor (i.e. business suit), sheath our swords around our wastes (i.e. cell phones), build our armies (i.e. employees), send our envoys (i.e. sales) to negotiate (business contracts) with friends and enemies. When we are unknowledgeable about a problem we may call the wise men (i.e. lawyers). Yes…business hasn’t changed much in terms of its fundamentals. One of the major differences is whether or not we get served roasted duck & ale or crackers & wine at our military training (i.e. business conference). In yesteryear we fought for honor, our religion, and our prestige. To protect ones land was the same as protecting ones offspring and way of life. In today’s world men still fight for their prestige, their wealth, and their families. The more money that can be accrued the stronger the family and more noble the person. The same psychological underpinnings of “self-preservation” have been consistent throughout civilization with only the methods changing. We do not stand on a battlefield but across from a conference table or desk. Our weapons of choice are paper and information and not hardened steel. The business world is about making money, earning fame and acknowledging your importance and contribution to the world. Men’s (& woman’s) egos are on the line and this can cause small battles to turn into full-scale wars (i.e. airline industry). Territory (market share) is one or lost with each successive battle. The company that is the fastest, most efficient, and strongest is likely to be the victor. All is fair in business and war in so long as it doesn’t violate the law or our ethics. Murad Ali is a three time published author, a Ph.d. candidate and a human resource professional. http://www.thenewbusinessworld.blogspot.com
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