Before he became the President, Donald Trump was a successful entrepreneur in the US. However, the traits he displayed during the recent India-Pakistan conflict were an eye-opener. It is evident to me that Trump would have flourished in the Indian corporate set-up as well.
Here’s a tongue (firmly) in cheek take:
☑️ Being Mr. Flip-Flop
In several Indian corporates, the ability to swiftly change one’s stated position, and be flexible with principles is seen as virtue. Trump excels on this count.
Veep Vance unambiguously stated that India-Pak conflict is “none of our business”, and rightly so. Four days later, Trump made his deputy look silly, by claiming that he was responsible for enforcing a ceasefire between the two nations. Such suppleness with beliefs can go a long way in Indian corporates.
☑️ Being Mr. Glib-Tongued
Corporate honchos are known to convincingly preach on subjects wherein they have little to no understanding, thanks to their glib tongues. It’s a quality that has held many in good stead. Trump holds this quality in spades.
When the conflict broke out, Trump claimed that the two countries have been fighting “for centuries”. Subsequently, he claimed that the fighting has been on “for a thousand years”.
Even the average fifth-grader is better informed than Trump. Aided by a smooth tongue, Trump dispensed with the need to be factually correct.
☑️ Being Mr. Credit Grabber
Workplaces are infested with credit grabbers. Managers routinely claim credit for their subordinates’ accomplishments. Trump knows a thing or two about credit grabbing.
By now, it is well-documented that India’s retaliation led to the Pak DGMO requesting his Indian counterpart for a ceasefire. Back-channel negotiations ensued. However, it was Trump who swooped down to grab credit for the ceasefire.
☑️ Being Mr. Double Standards
The ‘success is mine, failure is yours’ style of functioning is popular in the corporate world. Those who are quick to claim credit for any success, are even speedier when it comes to shirking responsibility for their failures. It’s no different with Trump.
The ceasefire that he claimed credit for, was breached by Pakistan a few hours later. But that never elicited a response from Trump. Perhaps the failure was someone else’s doing.
☑️ Being Mr. Pokey Nose
Sadly, power play is deeply entrenched in workplaces. Some see it as a means to survive and grow. Poking one’s nose in unrelated matters is a common form of exerting power.
For instance, a CFO who believes in directing the tech team on its work. Yet again, Trump makes the cut.
It’s no secret that Kashmir is the heart of India-Pak conflicts. Furthermore, India’s position on not involving third parties is unambiguous. But Trump has magnanimously declared that he will help resolve the Kashmir issue. Big words from a man struggling with historic low approval ratings in his country.
#corporatehumour, #Trump, #IndiaPakistan, #OperationSindoor
