How did I get here?
Today, an article was forwarded to me (http://www.usnews.com/blogs/risky-business/2008/12/17/madoff-any-good-lessons-for-businesspeople-to-learn-from-his-mistakes.html) which referenced another article (http://www.slate.com/id/2206739/pagenum/all/) which reminded me of a book I am reading, The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck, M.D. which reminded me of an article I read in 2004 by Senator John McCain, In Search of Courage (http://www.fastcompany.com/magazine/86/mccain.html).
OK, sorry for the journey into my thought process, but it almost seemed meant to be that I start this series. I'd love input and thoughts as I explore "the road less traveled in sales" series.
First of all, we've all heard the saying "hard times don't build character, they reveal it". Well, we're here. This is the time when one's own personal operating system, foundation of core values or personal code of conduct needs to be solid. What is OK and what is NOT OK with you? Do you have a foundation of core values to guide you? Not your company's, not your leader's, but yours. Be sure of it because we will see many, many ideas of what others see as OK and, as we already know, they aren't always right (some are even in jail!).
As a sales leader and sales professional, create your own personal list of core values to guide you through these constantly changing times. Every scenario that gets tossed your way can be held up along your core values and help you make decisions you can be proud of. It is too easy to get influenced by those you've trusted during good times only to find out you've been led astray. It's time to be sure of who you are.
This is a great exercise to do as a team, also. Enjoy the journey and the lessons we are all learning as we navigate this environment.
Today, an article was forwarded to me (http://www.usnews.com/blogs/risky-business/2008/12/17/madoff-any-good-lessons-for-businesspeople-to-learn-from-his-mistakes.html) which referenced another article (http://www.slate.com/id/2206739/pagenum/all/) which reminded me of a book I am reading, The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck, M.D. which reminded me of an article I read in 2004 by Senator John McCain, In Search of Courage (http://www.fastcompany.com/magazine/86/mccain.html).
OK, sorry for the journey into my thought process, but it almost seemed meant to be that I start this series. I'd love input and thoughts as I explore "the road less traveled in sales" series.
First of all, we've all heard the saying "hard times don't build character, they reveal it". Well, we're here. This is the time when one's own personal operating system, foundation of core values or personal code of conduct needs to be solid. What is OK and what is NOT OK with you? Do you have a foundation of core values to guide you? Not your company's, not your leader's, but yours. Be sure of it because we will see many, many ideas of what others see as OK and, as we already know, they aren't always right (some are even in jail!).
As a sales leader and sales professional, create your own personal list of core values to guide you through these constantly changing times. Every scenario that gets tossed your way can be held up along your core values and help you make decisions you can be proud of. It is too easy to get influenced by those you've trusted during good times only to find out you've been led astray. It's time to be sure of who you are.
This is a great exercise to do as a team, also. Enjoy the journey and the lessons we are all learning as we navigate this environment.
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