Despite no-one saying it, Trevor knew people could tell he had not washed that morning...
At a first glance Seth Godin, the author of ‘Tribes’, comes across as an Americanized idealist. His narrative technique resembles that of an evangelist writing sentences which starts with “we need you to lead us” and finishes with an exclamation mark. But Seth somehow manages to melt down my defences and he does convince me that he is a really cool guy with heaps of cool stuff to tell.
In short, Tribes is about how people make crowds, and that crowds are really tribes waiting for someone to speak up and take the lead. He challenges any form of status quo, and blames unsuccessful ideas or business attempts on a combination of fear for risk and the unknown, with bad management and poor leadership:
“Most organizations spend their time marketing to the crowd. Smart organizations assemble the tribe“
Seth argues that any sort of movement, innovation or organisation can triumph with the right person showing the way. This type of leadership is something that requires dedication, charisma and faith. It could be you!
I found it particularly inspiring to read about the many people Seth refers to as good examples of tribe leaders, and how their stories validates his arguments for that change can come from the most unexpected places.
Regardless of whether you have a keen interest for word-of-mouth marketing, business development, leadership or simply just like to read a really good book, I would recommend you to read Tribes. Go on. If you want I’ll even send you one of the many copies we have here (for giving our clients).
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