POWELL ON LEADERSHIP: PUTTING FOLLOWERS FIRST

Car enthusiast Powell tells dealers about his collection.

February 13, 2006—“Great leaders,” former secretary of state and retired army general Colin Powell told dealers at today's general session, “put the followers first. Give them the training, the resources, give them the tools, recognition—and set high standards.”

Powell said that leadership is leadership no matter if you’re leading an infantry brigade, civilians at the State Department, or employees at a dealership. “You need to inspire people to achieve goals.”

The former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff told the dealers that they needed to let their people know achievement is important at every level—no matter if it’s the dealer or the janitor. Leaders provide the spark—“it’s noble and right.”

With some amusement, Powell related his first day of retirement was an awakening. “One day you’re important and the next day you’re not.” With that in mind, Powell noted that he needed a toy—a real cool toy—so he bought a new Corvette.

Powell told the dealers they were good at what they did, since he also owns a Jaguar, a PT Cruiser, a Mercedes-Benz, and a ’66 Volvo. His greatest thrill behind the wheel was driving another Corvette, the pace car last Memorial Day in Indianapolis. “There is nothing better than knowing you led the Indy 500 for three laps.”

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