When I was a kid there was a local program on channel 9 that shaped my view of the world. When you’re watching a 19 inch Black and White TV my view of the world may have been monochromatic, but it was as deep as it was wide. The show was a Chicago staple called Family Classics and during this time of year, it aired a long list of Christmas Classics.
The common factor in Christmas movies is human conflict and resolution. But that is really the theme of most of our literature, military history, and our very existence. We are built for relationship. Simple really. But not for some.
I’m reminded of these memories because it seems we’ve lost what really matters in our interaction with people. As much as we drive our news and media coverage with the success or failure of retail during the holidays, we’ve lost the message of Kris Kringle in Miracle on 34th Street. We’ve forgotten how both Macy’s and Gimbel’s finally figured it out.
CNN business reported today that Best Buy’s CEO has nothing to sell, yet the company is positioned for success. That’s quite a different story from six years ago when the CEO with little experience in the industry appeared on the scene. He used a little common sense and created a vision for success. Looking back at the coverage of this turn around Forbes and the New York Times also commend Joly’s leadership.h
There are many lessons to be learned in each of the referenced articles, but it really comes down to a relationship. (It is Christmas after all!) Relationships with vendors and suppliers, with employees and most importantly customers. Kris Kringle had it right all along because that’s what “Business 101” is about on 34th Street.
Maybe more importantly, for those of you know the story of the reason for the season, it has always been about relationship. Hasn’t it? Merry Christmas Everyone!