Opposites and Their Messages

Sometimes, two very different people can pass a similar message.  We see it when politicians across party lines work in a bipartisan manner to pass some legislation.  Often, we experience the same message coming from two different people in different industries.

I have mentioned before that I'm an inveterate HGTV watcher.  One of the shows that generally teaches me something is Holmes on Homes.  This contractor goes in when a homeowner has been screwed over by their contractor and he "makes it right".  He disassembles the bad workmanship and points out how it was done incorrectly, then has it done correctly by the experts or his crew.  He rails on contractors who don't get the permits, don't do it right the first time, and don't stand by their work.

On a completely opposite tack, on the Lifetime network, there's Project Runway and Tim Gunn.  Tim Gunn serves as the PR mentor for the designers as they work through the clothing design challenges.  He walks through, checks on their work and makes recommendations.  When he's concerned about them completing a task on time, or making something look fabulous from less than wonderful beginnings, he says "make it work."

I've given a lot of thought to the differences between these two men.  One is a big, honkin' weightlifter of middle age and northern European extraction.  He's deliberate, thoughtful and a linear thinker.  The other is a tidy, effeminate and a true urban dweller.  He's charming, enthusiastic and a creative thinker.  Both of them encourage everyone around them to do it right and make it right.

I cannot think of two more opposite types giving the same message to a distinctly different crowd.  It's funny to me that they both resonate with me.  I'd like to sit down and have a beer with Mike Holmes.  I'm sure I'd have to have a cosmo with Tim Gunn, but either man would be a fascinating companion.  I really appreciate both their viewpoints, on their wildly disparate topics.

--Sandee Wagner