I’m sure we all remember Toyota’s safety issue from recent history. The company that was known for delivering safe, reliable vehicles was thrust into a big downward spiral by safety issues that negatively impacted a lot of lives.
For many companies, that downdraft would have been the beginning of the end. Especially with the high visibility provided by America’s government and media circus. A circus that I would like to point out that has not happened with American automakers who had similar problems. But that’s fodder for a Rebel Rant.
My point is that Toyota could have succumbed to Gravity. Instead they shifted – transforming what could have become a death spiral into an opportunity for High Velocity Growth.
Toyota shifted full gear into focusing on and promoting promoting their safety initiative. They didn’t just wave their hands and make claims – they shared their plans, and delivered on the results. For example, Toyota is now openly and widely promoted the following:
I watch so many companies play ostrich when they have issues that are very public. Just look at BP and the Gulf. The Gravity tendency is to avoid, ignore, change the subject or just plain fib – instead of stepping up and facing the situation.
It’s a pleasure to see Toyota create its own Gravity Shift. We can all learn a lesson from their candor, their openness and above all their customer commitment.
