Narendra Modi has always been a fine strategist and this was evident in the unanimous way the nation elected him for the second term as the Prime Minister against some strong counter-narratives. Politics aside, Election 2019, in more ways than one has thrown up a classic example of how focus on proper marketing, planning and management worked wonders for Modi and BJP in 2019. Here is my take on the management lessons that we should learn from Modi’s successful electoral campaign.
1. Meticulous Planning
The way Modi’s electoral campaign was planned is a classic example of how meticulous planning can reap rich results. In Modi’s words “We plan in detail. Nothing happens on its own. Nothing is a coincidence.” So, the learning is in business we can’t leave anything to chances and co-incidences.
2. Effective Use of Communication
The way the wave translated into votes in the ballot box, is a reflection of Modi’s ability to use communication strategies effectively to connect with the booth level workers to understand their pulse and keep them motivated. Making the booth level workers believe in the manifesto and driving them win votes shows how important it is to create connect with all level of employees in any organisation.
Corporates often make the mistake of focussing on senior-level economic incentives at cost of employees at lower level. We must remember that if you expect your lower-level employees vigorously committed to an enterprise’s success you need to have a constant connect with them.
3. Aim Big
Modi’s “Abki bar, 300 par” was something that resonated well with the voters. It was certainly an audacious target. But the fact that the leader believed in it made the difference. This goes true for all corporates as well. Always aim for big. Most companies have been successful because they had the ability to take the ‘Big Swing.” With a positive role model, anybody can have the ability to take on big projects with huge potentials.
4. Change is the Only Constant
BJP’s decision to field a majority of first-time candidates in 18 states out of 29, raised a few eyebrows. But change is the only constant in the 21st century. The decision to invest in fresh minds shows Modi’s ability to keep pace with time. Fresh minds come with new perspective and in the current scenario of ever changing trends and events, it is always advisable for business leaders to have fresh perspective from time to time and be prepared to deal with change that is rapid and sudden.
5. Understand the Pulse of Your Target Audience
The fact that there were 84 million first time voters, was huge opportunity for Modi and BJP. Connecting with these young voters effectively also translated into votes for the ruling party. Like any good business leader, Modi identified the need to run campaigns to connect with these new voters.
