'Commitment and Consistency' or 'How Your Business is Like a Rom-Com'
Too often I see businesses make the "Easy A" mistake. In a vain effort to build an experience which will attract everyone, they struggle to lean into and fully explore an experience capable of attracting anyone.
They offer too much, are consistently pivoting for a new perceived client, always changing their messaging and ultimately creating distrust in the experience of their business.
Just Keep Creating
A friend of mine and LinkedIn connection, Matt Bishop--CEO of Open City Labs, commented on a video of mine from a couple of weeks ago which sparked a discussion about the benefits and challenges of following your creative spirit. Matt mentioned wanting to write a blog--"The Curse of Creativity"--which I'm eager to read when it's ready.
But it got me thinking about this idea: The Curse of Creativity. I've always thought of creativity as being solely good, positive, and productive. But Matt mentioned an interesting point. He says, "My challenge is on which creative idea to prioritize and implement."
Follow Your Hunch In 2021
American film director Frank Capra once said, "A hunch is creativity trying to tell you something."
Well of course a film director would say that. It's easy to follow the line from bold, creative, and imaginative decision-making to the movies, television shows, and plays that most impacted our lives. That's a no-brainer.
But what about your business?
Let's Brag About Our Business
Andy Warhol once said, "Why do people think artists are special? It's just another job."
I have to say I am simultaneously annoyed and inspired by this quote because, on the one hand, artists are special Andy Warhol; sculptors, photographers, actors, directors, drummers, cellists are all pretty darn special. On the other hand, it is a strong reminder the skills we often see as unattainable or special in people are how others see our skills.
Speaking to Authority Figures
So here are Five Tips to Remember when Speaking to Authority Figures:
1) Have a Plan
What are your goals for this encounter? Do you want to get your boss excited about a new idea? Are you trying to survive a speeding ticket? Knowing and preparing to get what you want enables you to be perceived as knowledgeable, confident, and collected. I heard a story once about a woman, driving near a police station, who was pulled over for a traffic violation. When the officer asked, “Do you know why I pulled you over,” her response was “to impress your buddies over there.” The police officer laughed, and the woman was let off without a ticket. I want to emphasize, I am not advocating for snark in the presence of a police officer. That being said, this woman—facing an undesirable situation—had a plan. Her preparedness allowed her to get what she wanted—avoiding a ticket. This same planning (not the same plan!) should be taken into any situation when speaking with authority figures. Your preparation and planning adds credibility to your ideas, proposals, when interviewing, or when you’re standing up for a decision. You are more likely to be appreciated, respected, and ultimately heard.