Devoted to Managers and those that seek to improve their management skills

This year, as in many election years, we've seen a number of states attempt to disrupt the process by challenging the dates set and announcing their own. One reason why is they want to be considered more important in the election. But more importantly to them, is it sets the state up as a bellwhether, which positions them in the public mind as a leader.

We won't get into the reasons why this is important from the political point of view, rather we'll look at it from a branding viewpoint and business.

First of all, even though everyone says Iowa and New Hampshire aren't that important to the results, the candidates know different, and people with agendas, as mentioned here, are putting out polls to contradict what's really happening in order to try to influence the results.

For a business this is important to know, because positioning yourself in the minds of consumers is extraordinarily important, as well as other businesses we may serve.

Iowa, being the first step in the political process in America, as far as it relates to the presidency, makes the state unique and special in the minds of everyone with their eyes on the first salvo of the step toward the presidency. Not only that, but the place of America in the world makes Iowa even larger and more influential - far beyond its size.

Where else would someone from another part of the world know or hear about Iowa if it wasn't based on the caucus? Maybe in relationship to agriculture, but not much else.

If we brand ourselves into something big like this, we'll also find an increase in influence, standing and eventually sales, as we are viewed as unique by our customers.

We're not talking branding into politics here, but into important spots in the minds and hearts of people.

The position of Iowa in the American political process ensures that they are always in the minds and thoughts of people around the world. That's not a small accomplishment. We need to look at ways to do that within our own business or divisions we run.