Jack Welch on McCain's Leadership Loss

The former world's best manager of the century, Jack Welch (and his partner), offered his insights on why Obama wins and McCain loses. First he said he believed that McCain's economic platform "made better sense for business, especially in terms of free trade, tax policy, and job creation", then went on to point out that McCain was deficient in three vital areas of leadership succcess: Vision, Execution, and Strategic Allies. Finally, some lessons for business leaders are drawn. Here are the key points:

Start with the granddad of leadership principles: a clear, consistent ­vision. . . McCain's health-care policy, for example, had real merit. But his presentation of it was always confoundingly complex... Meanwhile, Obama's message was simple and aspirational. He talked about the failings of George W. Bush. He talked about change and hope and health care for all. Over and over, he painted a picture of the future that excited people. He also set a perfect example for business leaders: Stick to a limited number of points, repeat them relentlessly, and turn people on.

The next leadership principle should sound familiar: execution... In nearly two years of steady blocking and tackling, Obama's team made few mistakes. From the outset, his advisers were best in class, and his players were always prepared, agile, and where they needed to be. McCain's team, hobbled by a less cohesive set of advisers and less money, couldn't compete.

Finally, this election reinforces the value of friends in high places...That's why you need to start any leadership initiative with your "high-level friends" firmly by your side, convinced of the merits of your character and policies. But that's not enough. If you want to keep your board as an ally, don't surprise them. Think about McCain's "gotcha" selection of Sarah Palin. Scrambling to catch up with the story, the media was not amused.

Read the whole thing here.