Bob Iger's Shift From Leadership Role Model to Shakespearan Tragic Character - Three Lessons

"One source who knows Iger well saw his comments about the guilds in the CNBC interview as 'angry and self-pitying.'” - Hollywood Reporter, July 26, 2023

Remember how we pored over best-seller "Ride of a Lifetime" by Disney CEO Bob Iger. There were so many takeaways for leaders, managers and ambitious but purpose-driven rank-and-file. We also cheered when the troubled corporation boomeranged him back. 

Now, what helped get him there - strategy and the charm offensive - is alienating constituencies from the media to investors to talent, internal and external. 

Of course, that kind of reversal can happen to anyone. And it probably has. We became formulaic in the ways we operate our careres, the world changes and we are on the losing end. Then, we have to get smart fast about also changing. As I tell those I coach: It's not what happens, it's how you handle it.

Iger, observe watchers of this one-time teflon player, hasn't handled unfolding realities well. Yes, he seems to be not only angry but also defaulting into self pity. The image which comes to mind is Shakespeare's character King Lear. There he stands on the isolated cliff, wrapped in the meme that he is more sinned against than sinning. The guy is too smart to have said the kinds of things he said on CNBC. This creature is not the Iger. 

The fall of a beloved leader is very sad. 

There are three lessons here:

1) Beware the charm offensive. Currently no one is in the mood for that. Constituencies want to know: What's in it for them.

2) Stop trying to reestablish leadership through showcasing wealth. That's so out-of-style. One reason why Leon Black can't shake off the ghost of Jerry Epstein is that he is a prominent member of the billionaire's club. The ghost has returned in US Senator Mike Wirth's investigation of tax strategies used allegedly through Epstein financial guidance. In contrast Warren Buffett, who has sustained success through whatever, lives modestly. Fine cuisine? He eats like a kid.

3) Develop compassion for the little guy who needs to make a living. No, you don't say on a financial broadcast (CNBC) that ABC isn't really core to the business. That transported so many employees into freakville. Instead you prepare them for the various scenarios. 

2023. The only way through the uncertainty, AI disruptions and need to conserve financial resources is to get smarter. That ranges from your organizational communications to career issues.  Complimentary consultation with award-winning marketing communications crafter and coach Jane Genova. (For appointments text 203-468-8579 or janegenova374@gmail.com)