Founders as Film Directors
The other day I was re-watching one of the most powerful films I have ever seen – Spike Lee’s “Do The Right Thing” starring Spike Lee and Danny Aiello. I got to thinking about how Spike Lee as the film’s director was able to convince his actors and his investors to participate in making the movie. The subject matter (race relations) is potentially volatile and many messages can (and have been) drawn from the movie. How did he get them to buy-in to what he wanted to create?
Then I got to thinking about how much that experience mirrors the startup and business growth experience. Consider the extent to which you as a founder/CEO must figure out how to get your business off the ground.
- You have to have a great idea. One that will interest customers (or viewers). One that solves a problem. Spike Lee had something to say and this was his vehicle for saying it. He had a purpose and a vision for what he wanted to create.
- You have to determine who you need to make your idea a reality; what pieces you need (actors/employees), financial backing, etc.
- You must be able to paint the vision of what you are trying to create to the different stakeholders in a convincing way. They must “get it”. They must believe in your vision. My guess is that Danny Aiello could choose from a number of different films to make. Why did he choose this one? Why would that top-notch developer or executive join your team when they could choose another? You must get them to share your vision.
- You have to make them work as a team. Think about the broad cast of characters Spike Lee brought together. He combined many big names (Danny Aiello, Ruby Dee, Ossie Davis and others) and had them work together to produce an enduring piece of work. You must do the same.
- It helps to surround yourself with a great team. Spike Lee didn’t scout every location. He didn’t run the cameras. He didn’t set up and adjust the lighting. He didn’t handle security on the set. But, he surrounded himself with the right team of producers, writers, set designers, etc.
- You have to bring in the tools to deliver on your vision. Spike Lee had to pull together the right equipment – cameras, lighting, etc. As an executive you have to pull together
- Then, of course, you must execute. You have to stand behind the camera (sometimes in front of the camera) and guide the action. Make sure what is being created is aligned with that mission and vision of what you are trying to create.
Think about your role as a CEO and/or a company founder. To create something meaningful and lasting – with a purpose and a message – you must think of yourself as the director of your own movie. A movie called your company.
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