Have you ever felt almost in despair when a major project did not turn out as expected or the required learning curve was far greater than originally anticipated? We have all been there and dealt with these unwelcomed events in our own way. Admittedly, in the beginning of entrepreneurship I almost gave up, but luckily, I chose not to do so.
Looking back, I recognize that many of the difficulties we encounter actually come our way as presents in disguise. The problem arises when instead of examining the question of why we arrived at a brick wall, we instead stress out and tell ourselves “it’s of no use”. With that mode of thinking, driving through the brick wall will seem impossible.
Attitude is everything. The next time a partner backs out, service is not implemented as promised, or your own effort does not pay off the way you anticipated, take time to first ground yourself as the disappointment hits. Then begin asking questions such as,
– “Is there a better partner to approach?”
– “Will another provider deliver an improved service?”
– “If I continue up the learning curve, will the effort pay off in big dividends, or at the very least be worthwhile?”
By replacing the doomsday scenario with a creative approach, you may soon encounter improved outcomes and be happy that the original plan did not work out as expected. However, once a new solution or answer does appear, take cautionary steps so that the same difficulties are not repeated.
Create a detailed plan with prevention mechanisms built in regarding future potential calamities. Include a timeline with milestones included for your achievements. As you are able to cross off the check marks on your list, excitement builds and you become even more motivated to stay the course until you get to the end goal.
Speaking of end goal, once you near the end of this monumental project, in order not to lose momentum, reset your long term vision in exactly the same manner. You will be amazed by the quick progress you make.
In the event you seek new partnerships, include stipulations you believe must be agreed to in future partnerships. Talk these out in detail with your prospective partners to be certain there is full agreement on both sides. They, too, may have stipulations for you to adhere to. Take the time to consider whether they represent how you wish to do business. Some negotiation on both sides may be required but the end result should be an improved pact over the original.
As others watch you thrive against all odds, it will seem to them as if you were able to drive through that brick wall! Your actions speak loudly for your personal brand. Those observing you will be impressed and spread good word of mouth about you and your business.
The end result is you will automatically encourage larger sales, repeat business, referrals and testimonials – all of which will put you on the wave of the Smooth Sale!
Author:
Elinor Stutz, CEO of Smooth Sale, (800) 704-1499; was designated as a “Top 25 Sales Influencer for 2012.” Elinor authored the International Best-Selling book, “Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results”, Sourcebooks and best selling, “HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews”, Career Press.
