LDRS 500 unit 9 Learning Activity 2
In watching the two videos I really enjoyed seeing how each company had their own unique ways in tackling the digital marketing age. John Smart took an analytical approach while in comparison Jack Ma took a relational approach. John Smart’s way is a developmental process, one that evolves over time. Jack Ma’s approach is investing your time in developing the right people. Jack Ma’s approach aligns with the principles of team effectiveness seen in Northouse (p.376). Jack Ma ‘s successes were encouraging to hear. I find the most comfort in leaders who have failed time and time again and gone on to great success. Their success is a reminder of what an incredible tool failure can be.
When looking at the different companies and how they have handled a constant changing retail environment I think Walmart is a good example of navigating the new world. Their biggest competition is online stores promising one-day express shipping such as Amazon which makes shopping easy and convenient. Competing with online markets has forced Walmart to offer other delivery methods such as their new pickup towers. Pick up towers allow the consumer to scan the receipt and find their ordered products will be dropped into a pick-up box of the machine. Another thing they are trying is giving discounts to people who order online, have an employee put the order together and the customer picks it up. The company is extending the same discount to customers who ship their online orders to their local store.
I think Walmart has a good grasp on what is going on in the digital world. By offering the consumer alternate ways of shopping they are staying current. One thing I would do differently is creating more of an online presence. Make more of an impression on social media and run social media campaigns to catch a wider demographic of customers.
References
Northouse, P. G. (2019). Leadership: Theory and practice.