The bias and political lobbying that has inculcated the media of this nation is glaringly brazen and bordering on corrupt. Australia is a democracy with every citizen having the lawful right to freedom of speech. But is the right to blatant bias and political activism by the media acceptable and palatable?

An article published today by the Australian newspaper, “Will the last media organisation that doesn’t engage in lobbying please turn out the lights?” lists a series of statements in the media that leave any rational, objective, intelligent person pondering where one might go to access unbiased and fair media reporting of political events. There was a time when if you wished to be informed by something more reputable than the public bar blathering at your local you would read the media to gain an impartial perspective.

The Australian exposes the hypocrisy behind the manufactured campaign to demonise protest again the carbon dioxide tax; yet they rejoice and pay tribute to a protester throwing a shoe at the then Prime Minister, John Howard.



Jonathan Holmes on ABC1′s Media watch yesterday:

You remember the No Carbon Tax rally in Canberra last March, with all those charming posters? 2GB’s presenters urged their listeners to go to that one, too, and Chris Smith Broadcast live from the event … is he paid to help organise political rallies?

- So, according to ABC1 this is NOT fair that 2GB acted this way.



But what if you throw a shoe at former PM John Howard? Peter McEvoy, executive producer of ABC1′s Q&A, tells the Sydney Morning Herald, October 26, 2006:

Perhaps they could be framed, someone mentioned bronzing … we will give it some thought in the coming weeks.

- That’s acceptable by the ABC media that you and I pay for with our tax dollars.



Another opinion that appears to be appropriate in the eyes of “our” ABC. A tweet on Q&A yesterday:

If karma is real how is Rupert Murdoch still alive and so rich.



The bias by Fairfax media against Rupert Murdoch’s News Ltd is commercially understandable, although it still does not sit well with me. But the blatant political bias from the taxpayer-funded ABC is deplorable and unacceptable. As a “shareholder” of this organisation I suggest there are operational failings by the well-paid executive and journalists, and their behaviour is inexcusable and reprehensible. If they were in my employ — they no longer would be.


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Ric Willmot
Improving Organisational Performance
Providing Strategy Consulting & Mentoring

 

Geelong dentist Paul Gardner, a confessed "God-botherer" has been described by a tribunal investigating his professional conduct as likely to re-offend. He has been accused of spouting fundamental Christian views during consultations. Lawyer Patrick Monahan, acting for the Dental Board of Australia said Mr Gardner has failed to comprehend the seriousness of his actions and was as "likely to repeat his behaviour as he ever was". (The details of this case can be found by searching your favourite news website.)

But here's a thought: If you don't like your dentist - change and get a new one!

Why, why, why do we seem intent on replicating the moronic litigious culture of the United States? When things go wrong in our lives, are we as a people really so weak, indecisive and pusillanimous to deal with it? Let's take back responsibility for ourselves from the legislators. In business, become responsible and make your own path. If something in your firm doesn't work, change it. If it upsets you when you do something, stop doing it. If what you're doing now isn't working, do something different. Build some resolve to be accountable for your own success. Execute some action that will go towards achieving your desired objectives and results. You're in control.

The proverb in Luke 4:23 was right: Physician, heal thyself.

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Ric Willmot
Improving Organisational Performance
Providing Strategy Consulting & Mentoring


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My mother's car broke down in the Brisbane CBD at 7 am on a Monday morning. Now there's an executive stress test you can't pay for at the Wesley Hospital! The automobile club were dutifully telephoned, and as expected there was a delay. After a short while, the roadside assist mechanic arrives, checks for the basics, only to conclude the vehicle will need towing.

After three hours of standing in the heat, pent up frustration and umpteen telephone calls to Colin on the customer service hotline; the suggestion is made to speak with the automobile club's customer service supervisor to escalate the lack of response by a tow truck.

Supervisor-Chris states Monday mornings are always hectic because there are so many vehicles requiring towing after the weekend breakdowns.

"Well, if you know this to be the case wouldn't you increase the number of towing vehicles available for this period?"

"How could we run a business like that? We would never make any money!"

My favourite coffee shop rosters additional staff during peak periods to provide excellent customer service and ensure prompt delivery of sales. Which is why so many coffee-connoisseurs frequent that particular establishment. You never grow a successful business by cutting costs!


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Ric Willmot
Improving Organisational Performance
Providing Strategy Consulting & Mentoring

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A sanguine Ric Willmot was interviewed by journalists at the CPA Australia Congress - Canberra in 2009 after his two days of MasterClass presentations. Back in 2009 Ric was very upbeat about the future of Australian business when most pundits were remaining pessimistic. How interesting it is to look back and consider of whom you would rather take note: Ric Willmot or the naysayers.

If it walks like a duck, talks like a duck and acts like a duck, then it's a duck! Even if it thinks it's a swan, it's still a duck as far as you and I are concerned.

Being authentic, is doing what you promise, not "being who you are". Thinking that you're a website designer and telling everyone you're a website designer, while taking 5 months to create an internet-based mess gives the impression of somebody cursed with an incurable disenchantment of their ability; a malady midway between acedia and ennui.

It's easy to confuse authentic behaviour with an existential crisis.

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Ric Willmot
Improving Organisational Performance
Providing Strategy Consulting & Mentoring

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