Several years ago, I was speaking in Puerto Rico at a sales conference and while I was waiting for my return flight I was relaxing and started to speak with another flyer. He was British and just finishing his holiday. We discussed mutual occupations and experiences, when he learned that I had just addressed a sales conference he inquired as to the topic and purpose of the event. After I explained, he said to me: “take advantage of the opportunity of a lifetime, during the lifetime of the opportunity!” I loved that comment and I have used quite often ever since.
As I approach another birthday that quote is even is more important as each of us only have a certain of number of “opportunities of a lifetime” to experience. These opportunities can be professional as well as personal. The challenge I see is too many individuals simply moving through life rather than experiencing life. I am firmly convinced that learning to impact the lives of others through service, trying new things, being kind and simply having fun put more zest in your life and a bounce in your step. Recently a man that I knew, only slightly, passed away; the comments everyone made about Jim were wonderful. One that I recall was that whenever Jim met someone, he always asked them; ‘now tell me what you have been up too”… What a nice way to express warmth.
In our sales management workshops we spend time on coaching, mentoring, and communication skills. (See other blogs). The one sentence I liked to stress to our attendees or during a consulting relationship is; when working with your sales team; when a salesperson calls you or walks into your office the first thing you should say is: “how can I help you“… make sure you express that warmth and demonstrate you care. It will go a long way in building a trusting relationship and the motivation of your team.
Take advantage of the opportunity, I have a short video for you on this concept: http://www.acumenmgmt.com/KeninAction123
Have a great March and finish the quarter strong!
