Legacy of CBS and More: Businesses and Workers Can't Think That Way

 The Atlantic, which might fancy itself America's Chief Thought Leader, makes this observation about the end of Stephen Colbert's late night program:

"CBS’s current ownership seems determined to demolish this legacy." 

The article about this by David A. Graham starts out with a backgrounder about what CBS used to be in American life. Probably only Boomers recall that. And probably they don't even care. The communications landscape keeps disrupting too much too frequently for any of that to provide insight on how to succeed currently. Or even be interesting.

The same applies to individual careers. It dings your brand to showcase who you used to be. That also goes for past accomplishments. In this strange new world driven by generative AI and uncertainty as standard, usually former success models are irrelevant. Even back when Bob Iger returned for a second round as CEO he learned that harsh lesson. To his surprise he had to view the business through a new set of glasses.

Actually, the peril of "protecting a legacy" was always a reality. Royals found that out as the Russian and French Revolutions took place. Power has always been about the now. 

When Brad Karp became chair of Paul Weiss in the worst of times - The Great Recession - he made it his business to take the risk of transforming the law firm from the legacy of being primarily a Wall Street litigation one. Karp set up transactional practices because he knew that was required to remain a top New York law firm. 

Here in the midwest, where my coaching boutique is based, Donald Trump is positioned as a hero for taking on legacy institutions. Already he is mythic. In New York City, Zohran Mamdani could also symbolize government-in-the-now.

Rattled, maybe the first time since you started working? Faith-based Coaching. Special expertise with transitions, reskilling and aging. Psychic/tarot readings, upon request. Complimentary consultation with Jane Genova (Text 203-468-8579, janegenova374@gmail.com). Yes, test out the chemistry.


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