What particular set of skills did Michael Scott possess to successfully rise at Dunder Mifflin?

This is an answer to a question submitted to the “Ask me anything (AMA)” program. This AMA channel is designed to support you get clarity to business/tech questions you may have. Periodically, I select a particular response that we feel can benefit the broader community.

While Michael is a fictional character in The Office, this question made me smile. Here are my thoughts about it:

• He is eager to please and adapt to the situation, making him easy to control and drive the company narrative.
• People he reported to resigned, leaving him as the most senior/experienced individual in the company.
• Was suitable for the job when they were a much smaller company; then experienced a sprout of growth that needed people to lead.
• He had the drive to lead (but not necessarily the breadth of capabilities needed).
• The office location represents an area of lesser importance where presence is more important than overall performance, meaning leadership is selected based on cost rather than ability.
• Low expectations on the business unit → Just do what is needed to keep the lights on.
• He was inventive and showed the potential to be invested in. Sometimes investments do not realise :) or realise differently :)
• He volunteered and tried repeatedly.
• He was visible. People feel comfortable working with people they know.

NOTE: Views are my own, based on my observations and experiences. I believe in productive discourse and welcome opportunities to refine my understanding through discussion. Comment in the comments area below or reach out on hi@andremuscat.com