Would You Trust Donald Trump to Run Your Business?
The thought of entrusting your business to the man who concocted an elaborate conspiracy theory admitting defeat, an individual with a history of financial missteps, and a controversial figure has caused concern and controversy. Let's explore this idea and dissect the arguments for and against trusting Donald Trump with the responsibility of running a business.
The Executive Myth
When faced with the question, many would consider it absurd to hire Trump for anything, let alone managing a business empire. Would you hire Donald Trump to manage a box of air? The concept seems farcical, wouldn't you agree? In fact, the idea seems so outlandish that some might chuckle before dismissing it entirely. However, others might find himself intriguing, especially in niche areas where control and hands-on management are paramount.
Construction Projects
One might argue that having Trump as a foreman on a construction project would be a fitting choice. He'd excel in placing the grunts in check, ensuring tasks are completed on time and within budget. Trump's assertive leadership style and keen eye for detail could make him a compelling overseer, but his track record of financial mismanagement and bankruptcy may make this a calculated risk.
A Lack of Stewardship and Integrity
The latest criticisms surrounding Donald Trump touch on his stewardship and integrity. While some view his multiple bankruptcies and financial maneuvering as savvy business acumen, others see it as a stark betrayal of ethical business practices. Seth Klarman, a celebrated value investor, emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct and stewardship in business. Would you entrust a known conman and traitor, who has bankrupted numerous businesses and left others holding the bag, with the responsibility of your company? If you value integrity and transparency, the answer might be a resounding no.
The Business Delusion
Let's dive deeper into the idea that Donald Trump is a capable businessman. His credit rating is so dire that he can't borrow money from any financial institution in the United States or Europe. A truly successful businessman would boast a substantial credit score, indicating financial reliability and sound business practices. In reality, the opposite is true.
Comparing Business Records
Donald Trump's reported business performance also falls short. His companies did worse than the SP 500, a benchmark representing the performance of the 500 largest companies in the U.S. stock market. This statistic highlights that his businesses performed worse than the average publicly traded company. This trend is even more pronounced considering that most of Trump's wealth comes from his father, making his track record solely based on inherited assets.
The Bar of Business Success
Brandon, a business magnate like Richard Branson of the Virgin Group, emphasizes the high bar for true business success. According to Branson, a true businessman might face a few bankruptcies, but more than four bankruptcies indicate a lack of essential business skills. Richard Branson, who started from scratch, has achieved wealth far surpassing that of Donald Trump. This emphasis on the rarity of multiple business failures underscores the importance of ethical business practices and the difficulty in managing companies successfully.
Conclusion: Why Not Trust Trump with Your Business?
In light of all these factors, the answer to the question becomes clear. If one holds ethical values and high standards for business leadership, entrusting a man known for his dishonest practices, bankruptcy, and involvement in potentially illegal activities with the management of a business would be a significant risk. While recognising his skill in bankrupting businesses, it is not enough to justify his management of your business. If you value integrity, transparency, and ethical conduct, Donald Trump is not the right choice for leading your business.