Sentiment

“Your comment may be correct, but I don’t think the new CEO should be blamed. Once again, he just takes up the post for a few weeks!” I tried to explain.

“True, but you miss the point,” L seemed unmoved, “You know, in the eyes of that CEO, all sentiment of those new customers is because they believe they could almost afford advertising in the more established channel, but, because of one trivial reason or another, they could only get the second-rate offer!”

“I see what you mean. The sentiment may be genuine, but it should never be the view of the CEO.”

“Exactly. Jean Valjean could well complain his parents for not leaving him a good fortune – but that’s not an excuse for nihilism.” L remarked, looking grim.

“My friend, it’s easy to say don’t do this and that. Come on, in your opinion, what strategy should this CEO take?”

“Alas, I’m no business people. There are of course blue ocean strategies – if you could find any. My limited knowledge on Michael Porter also states that the CEO can look for an edge and develop a distinct market position. My own humble opinion is, even if no winning strategy could be adopted, they could still focus on their production and treat their customers well. Many a time it’s not about winning a competition, but thriving and prospering with respect and dignity. If you are in a race and you come at the second place, all you could see is the winner’s back. But, if you take it as jogging at your own pace, you could appreciate the beauty of the road!”