The press and pundits have had much, perhaps too much, to say about Barack O’Bama’s building of a team of rivals similar to that of Abraham Lincoln’s cabinet. While I will leave the historical comparisons to the those who make a living studying such decisions and developments, I continue to be impressed with the President Elect’s approach to the economic crisis in both his timing and careful consideration of players.

Today, President Elect Obama announced his economic team and stated, "That work starts today, because the truth is, we don't have a minute to waste."  His propensity for action in the wake of this crisis is spot on.  The lesson here for large and small business alike is evident - Communicate with a sense of calm determination, acknowledge the issues you face, act quickly and with purpose.  It’s hard not to notice the stark difference between the President Elect and the sitting President when each addresses the American people on the economic crisis.

Most impressive is his choice of what I call “A” players for key positions - New York Federal Reserve President Tim Geithner as Treasury secretary, Harvard economist Lawrence Summers to run the National Economic Council from the White House, Rom Emanuel as Chief of Staff, and perhaps Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State.  While I’ve never been a big fan of Clinton’s in general, there is no arguing that Hillary will outshine any foreign dignitary that she will meet. 

There is no doubt that President Elect Obama is surrounding himself with “A” players, because this is what confident “A” Players do naturally.  “B” players surround themselves with “C” players, so that they can feel confident about themselves. 

The question every business owner has to ask his or herself is, “Do I have the right team of “A” players to deal with the challenges that lie ahead?”  Oftentimes a new CEO or VP will bring along people that they have worked with in the past.  Generally a team that has worked together in the past is an advantage especially in a start up environment.  However, these are extraordinary times.  The crisis that we currently face is of “historical proportions” and many business executives have only known how to operate good times.  Rounding up the usual group of suspects, though convenient, may not be the best team to address the unique issues facing most businesses.  Do you have the right crisis team?