The Secret of Success Isn’t Talent

A Spin A Day Keeps The Small Biz Alive

The Secret of Success Isn’t Talent

1 May 2009 by Susan T 17 Comments

Einstein-haired celebrated and bestselling author of “Blink” and “Tipping Point” is back with another jolt of uncommon insight. His new book, “The Outliers,” dedicates itself to tell the secret of success and it seems that talent isn’t just it. He pursues the fact that success is born out of opportunity, hard work, timing and luck.

From Bill Gates to Steve Jobs, to the Beatles, Gladwell suggests that success = 50% perspiration + 40% situational + 10% inspiration.

Although an ardent fan of Gladwell’s magic touch of making unfathomable research data into enjoyable stories, it is felt here that perhaps by an inch or so, that Gladwell is pushing class, historical timing and cultural heritage as determinations of social predestination. Who gets ahead is largely by fluke. (I’m booi-ing as a fan of Individualism).

Nevertheless, like any Gladwell, it’s a great read, given his innately easy style and if you don’t believe it, you still can take everything out of context and learn at least 20 new things here.

One I have learnt which may apply to marketing and communications is this :

Hofstede’s Power Distance Index - the low vs high power index is the extent to which the less powerful members of the society accepts that power is distributed unequally.

Low power distance : People in low power distance countries such as Austria, Israel, Denmark, New Zealand accept more democratic power relations - they regard each other as equals regardless of formal posts. Subordinates are comfortable with and demand the right to contribute or even critic the decision making of those in power.

High power distance countries : Malaysia ranks first - people accept power relations that are more autocratic and paternalistic. Lower power people acknowledge the power of others simply based on where they are situated in certain formal, hierarchical positions. They are not comfortable with demanding a right to contribute or critic the decision making power of those who are in power.

Definitely an interesting subject for communicators, marketers, strategists, HR and politicians!