President Ahmadinejad of Iran spoke the other night at Columbia University. After listening to various news accounts that seem to tell different stories about the same event I watched a taped account on C-SPAN that evening. What I saw was very different from either the left or right wing media had portrayed. Perhaps it was because I was able to see for myself that I could form my own opinion of the event. My opinion of the man did not really change. He did nothing, and said nothing that made me feel better about him. To deny that the Holocaust happened is tantamount to saying the world is flat. We know for certain the world is not flat, we do not need any more study on that aspect of it.
What can be learned from this event?
How was the opportunity handled by both sides that is instructive?
Was there a moment during the dialogue that you should have noted?
Even evil dictators can teach us something about leadership. It is unfortunate, but true that often the most despicable people can provide the most drastic examples. Certainly the images of Julius Caesar, William the Conqueror, and Alexander the Great have been softened by time. If you were not in their inner circle, life was not all that great for you, even if you were on their side. It can be the same in business.
What I saw in the manner of Mr. Ahmadinejad was a supreme example of how to keep your composure even in the face of serious allegations and insults. He made it clear that he was aware of the nature of the comments, but at no time did he let it affect his intent to deliver his message.
I think many entrepreneurs face daunting (to them) attacks in meetings with investors, banks, and analysts. It is important to keep your focus on the reason you are there. It is vital that you not be swayed when the control of the conversation is out of your hands. You may find yourself sitting in the office of a supervisor or manager who uses more colorful language and tone than Bollinger did, but you are not allowed to whine, cry, or retaliate. You have to keep your composure.
The most important moment of the evening for me - the end. When, despite being booed, laughed at, jeered, and at times cheered, Ahdaminejad still expressed gratitude for the opportunity and wished his hosts well. No matter how harshly you are treated, you must have the self-assurance, (there is no doubt he does) to maintain your composure and your position.
Did I miss anything (besides the fact that he is a liar, a coward, and a murderer) ?
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