This article by Mr. Wertheimer brings a positive and encouraging take on the going events in Egypt. His perspective highlights the possibility of real political and economic change in Egypt that may in fact lead to a stable and viable democracy in that country.
Cairo’s business-savvy protesters
Over the past few weeks, I have experienced something quite new, a certain feeling of commonality with Egypt. I can identify with the methods that the Egyptian people employed to wage their revolution. They are guidelines that I myself have tried to maintain in my own initiatives. Harvard Business School could write a case study on Tahrir Square, for the principles the protesters demonstrated there are the same ones needed for any successful entrepreneurial effort. Indeed, Israel too might learn a thing or too from the protests. As President Barack Obama said, the world was inspired by Egypt’s revolution. The following are just a few examples of Egypt’s skills in entrepreneurship:
Stating a clear goal
Like any good entrepreneur, the majority of protesters focused on one main objective, removing President Hosni Mubarak from power so that a new era could begin.
Believing in the product
The “product” in this case was a new way of life for the nation’s 80 million citizens; one with more opportunities for education and jobs. The value of this belief was voiced repeatedly with total clarity.
Perseverance
Over an 18-day period, the protesters were steadfast and unwavering their demands.
Maintaining a cool head under pressure
Even when Mubarak said during his February 10 speech that he would not step down, they did not resort to violence but maintained a relatively calm demonstration. This was no mean feat for a group of protesters estimated at close to one million.
Keeping one’s word
The collective group vowed to stay put until they achieved their goal. And they did.
Employing the use of technology
The ultimate success of the revolt is largely hinged on the younger generation’s ability to rally their forces using networking sites and the latest communication devices.
Managing the team towards a common goal
At no time did the huge crowd of protesters break up into rival sectors. Religious and secular, young and old, urban and rural, men and women: all focused their efforts collectively on breaking down the old system to allow for a new one.
Looking to the future while retaining the important aspects of the past
The protesters showed a respect for the past and a willingness to balance their demands in a sensible way. They were ready to believe in themselves again, an insight that will give them the courage to make the difficult decisions that await them in the future.
Transferring pride into action
No good entrepreneur can rest on his laurels. Today’s achievement must be followed by new ideas and actions. Soon after it was clear that Mubarak would step down, the protesters didn’t simply abandon the square; many returned to clean the area that had served them as a temporary residence. This underscored the people’s pride in their accomplishment and their newly-defined status in society.
Making peace with one’s competition
I have always been of the opinion that trying to kill your competition ultimately erodes your own success. Creating a win-win situation usually works out best for both competitors. Mubarak, who had ruled for close to 30 years, was allowed free passage out of office.
For the rest of the article Jerusalem Post
