Out of the Crisis.Org

[Louis Altazan]

There’s a sizable political issue brewing in my home State. Our Governor was elected on a reform platform and put in by a landslide. The first real test came last week. The Legislature voted themselves a 300% pay increase. Now I am not against fair pay, but in a State with an average income of less than $30K, feel a 300% increase sends a very poor message.

The new Governor publically states he is against such a pay increase, but also states he will not veto the bill if it comes to his desk. His reason, the legislator might then veto important legislation he wishes to propose. This is not intended as a political commentary, rather one on leadership and thus management.

I feel leaders have a moral responsibility to do what they feel is right, in the best interest of those they lead. Getting along is fine, but not at the expense of compromising ethics. Whenever a leader must take a stand there will generally be someone unhappy. For every problem that persist, I believe someone is profiting from keeping things as they are. When there is an attempt to put an end to the problem, those profiting will be displeased.

While a great leader may be well liked, being liked can never be their primary goal. Uniting people may be a goal, but not at the expense of doing what is best. The power of the leader must come from those they lead and is gained by always acting in the best interest of all.

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Louis Altazan
Owner/Manager AGCO Automotive Corporation
Baton Rouge, LA