Why Being Why Being the Consigliere (the Number 2) is the Smartest Path to Success and Power
Everyone wants to be the number one, the CEO, the President, the leader. But there’s real power in being number two. While others fight to be at the top, being the trusted deputy or right-hand person can be a smarter path. Let me explain why.
The Power of Being the First Follower
I found a great TED Talk by Derek Sivers that showcases leadership by showing a video of a guy dancing alone at an open-door festival. He looks kind of crazy and geeky. Then one person joins him. This second person joining, the first follower, turns that “crazy dancer” into a leader. Soon, everyone joins in. That’s the hidden power of being the first to follow, you help create the momentum.
The Right-Hand Person Advantage
History shows us many incredible partnerships that changed the world of finance, technology, and Hollywood. Steve Jobs had Tim Cook running the day-to-day work at Apple, turning it into the success we know today. Warren Buffett relied on Charlie Munger’s wisdom for all big decisions at Berkshire Hathaway and to build its global “financial architecture.” Even in fiction, Sherlock Holmes needed Dr. Watson to succeed, showing how a trusted partner makes all the difference.
