2: "We can do this" Blind Optimist

This Bad Executive is a powerful counterpoint to the "End is Nigh" Anti-Evangelist.

Here's the facts. Very few things in the corporate world run smoothly or to plan. In any given population, there are going to be equal proportions of genius, gullibility and downright idiots. Couple that to a generic (but accurate) organizational change readiness profile of gullible... sorry pro-change, couldn't care less and downright refuseniks and you get a feel for the reality of most organizations: Good things happen. Crap happens. And work is called work because that's precisely what it is... WORK.

Anyone who says different is lying or selling something. And almost definitely a badConsultant.

Unless they are the "We can do this" Blind Optimist.

Often seen with:
  • A broad smile, usually at one of those meetings where the true enormity of acquiring a corporation of similar size to your own is on the agenda
Tell-tale signs:
  • Laughs loudly whenever job cuts are mentioned ("All those people, what an opportunity to start over... And we get to help them!"
  • Gets excited when hearing that the CEO actually hasn't heard of the project ("What a great opportunity!")
Favourite Saying:
  • "I don't get why you guys are so down..."
Puts faith in:
  • The fact that the world loves positive energy
  • The fact that Woodstock was energy that just happened before its time
  • Self-help books directed at the caring, sharing management executive
  • Any management book with the word "Success!" in the title
  • Exclamation points at the end of sentences!!!