Have you ever met someone who seemed the most unlikely person to rise to power? This could be someone in the lower ranks of a company who might be new to the organization. This same person beats all odds and rises to the top. I’m still wondering whether people succeed because of luck or skill. Maybe it’s luck or maybe skill or maybe a combination of both. I’ll leave the luck alone and focus on the skills that helped Napoleon Bonaparte do just that.
In a New York minute, Napoleon rose to the top of the most powerful country in Europe and left a mark that is still felt to this day. I’ve been wondering how is it possible for this man to have accomplished so much in so little time. His circumstances were not in his favor. He was the second son of a petty noble from Corsica. Napoleon did not learn to speak French until later in life speaking with a strong Italian accent. He was disproportionately short, was outspoken, kept mainly to himself and did not have the right connections in Paris.
I believe that he was able to capitalize on a void in leadership by using:
Tenacity
When a mob in favor of royalty tried to reverse the French revolution, Bonaparte offered his services to the defending army. He was courageous and bold in fighting the mob. A legend spread that Napoleon single handedly saved the Revolution.
Initiative
He did not wait for approval unless it was absolutely necessary. He led with confidence and knew what needed to get done.
Influence
When he was on the rise, he could get away with almost anything. When his superiors questioned his actions, he knew how to alleviate their concerns and was able to talk his way out of it.
He also had endeared his men who were more loyal to him than the Republic. He did this by treating them fairly, providing them with the tools and paying them on time for their services. He also took on the most dangerous assignments along with them, inspiring them to greatness.
Personal Branding
While leading armies as a general, he branded himself as the savior of France providing hope in the midst of a chaotic administration. He proved to the people and elite that by winning key battles (i.e. Italy and Egypt) that he was destined to lead France and the world. He became a legend and enhanced this image using every available means including launching three newspapers that distributed this message.
Your thoughts and insights
- Is there a common thread for those who rise to power in a New York Minute?
Photo credits, Roblisameehan
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[New Post] Rise to Power in a New York Minute – via @twitoaster http://www.peakhistory.com/2010/02/08/ri...
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Marguerite, this post brings out some interesting facts about Napoleon and his rise to influence. These definitely are some great lessons to be learned from his multi-year New York Minute.
Will you be doing a “rest of the story” on this? My exposure to Napoleon was a long time ago, but I think there’s a lot more to be learned from what didn’t go so well too.
Mike…
Mike, grea idea on doing one on what not to do once you’re in power. That would be a good sequel. I’ll definitely do one at a later time and let you know.