Three Business Lessons We Can Learn From Rick Perry

Texas Governor Rick Perry

Governor Rick Perry was indicted Friday, August 15th, 2014 on two felony counts regarding his response to Travis County’s District Attorney Rosemary Lehmberg’s drunken driving arrest in April 2013. 

He has been accused of withholding funds from her ethics unit in an effort to force her out of office.

Amid these allegations, Rick Perry is also dealing with the border crisis and a supposed 2016 Presidential run. We can all relate to those situations that seem to come as just the perfect time, right?

But what can we learn from this 25 year veteran politician?

Texas Governor Rick Perry is teaching us three valuable lessons we can translate to business.

1. Staying Relevant

Some people have some pretty strong opinions about Rick Perry, but regardless of how you feel, we seem to always hear something about him. The old adage “there’s no such thing as bad publicity” is reinforced here.

Entrepreneurs can have an abundance of daily tasks, some that their audience see and most they don’t, but staying on the minds of our readers and followers is paramount in business. There are many ways to achieve this and you should certainly adapt it to your industry and the type of readers you target. Staying relevant is not restricted to press releases for your company, it can also be a simple Facebook post to remind your readers of recently published content, or a monthly newsletter.

When you have a new offer, contest or giveaway, readers will be more responsive when you have been consistently in contact with them. I can tell you from my own experience that in the era of social media, customers require you to be responsive and abreast of current news.

2. Persevere

All of remember the political campaign the governor ran and loss in his bid for president. It was not likely the best of times for Rick Perry, nevertheless he seems to have just picked up where he left off, hardly breaking stride. His ability to do this probably comes from his experience, however, it also comes from knowing that regardless of how bleak or difficult something seems, if you keep going, it will pass.

Since his loss for the presidential bid, he has been confronted with many issues in his home state. His recent invitation to President Barack Obama was turned down but that has not stopped him from confronting the border issues head-on. We will experience many seasons as we build and grow in business but persevering is what truly makes a difference. Never give up.

3. Stick To Your Guns

So often we feel pressured to conform to the status quo or bend our personal business ethics. But there is power in taking a stand. While many people disagree with Mr. Perry, many also respect his boldness. Be comfortable with what your business offers so long as it is your best. Be comfortable in your own skill.

We must remain sensitive to the evolving needs of our customers, but we must also stick with our mission and vision and be aware of veering off course. Stick to how you want to operate your business. Learn from others but never seek to duplicate what they do.

You are unique. Embrace that.

These three lessons can help us be better business men and women, even if they don't seem to work so well for the Governor.