Honest Abe Got it Right
August 16, 2010
Q: My client made an unsuccessful run in the primary election. He wasn’t trounced — but close to it. While bruised, he’s not counting himself out in the future. Any recommendations?
A: Here’s advice for every candidate, successful or otherwise…
First, and foremost, thank all supporters from low to high. Make it personal. Your client-candidate no doubt received financial and in-kind support from interested supporters. Make sure backers get the appreciation they deserve, in person and in writing.Second, take stock of why your candidate was unsuccessful and learn from the experience. Focus on the three main reasons for defeat and consider the odds of reversing the situation in the future, what changes would need to occur and the resources required. Avoid making excuses such as “if only I had done this or that…”
Third, remember the reasons that compelled your client to seek nomination in the first place. If — after a campaign-free vacation — the passion and appetite for making a difference come back with renewed vigor, then consider giving a bid for public office another shot. Abraham Lincoln was defeated in his bid for various public offices seven times before he became the 16th president of the United States.
Finally, if your client is looking for a great kick-back-and-relax read during the waning weeks of summer, we recommend Doris Kearns Goodwin’s Team of Rivals. We guarantee you’ll enjoy it while gleaning pearls of wisdom for the future — including the importance of strong presentation skills. President Lincoln figured this out. Your candidate can too.
Paula Blanchard Stone and Patty McCarthy are partners in McCarthyBlanchard, an executive training firm specializing in key message development, presentation skills training, media interview training and executive presence. Copyright © 2008 McCarthy Blanchard. | Website
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