Friday, January 30, 2009

The Rule of Three: What is your Kindness Factor?

Tough times require something new, now more than ever: a Kindness Factor x Three.

Take this informal test to ask yourself: What am I doing to help others--is it enough?

Question #1: Are you helping others find a job? Answer: Name at least three people you are actively assisting. If you are not helping at least three, you are not thinking beyond your comfortable world.
Question #2: You have a network--are you mentoring? Have you identified those who deserve your help and attention to succeed? If so, provide guidance and coaching. Number of people: at least three.
Question #3: What are you doing to creatively contribute to the success of your firm? Create at least three new ideas and share them with your management team and colleagues. Minimum requirement: THREE.

Don't get caught up in the day-to-day. Set aside 10 minutes now to help those in need, mentor others, and help your organization succeed.

Friday, January 2, 2009

Top 5 New Year's Resolutions

The Professional Service Provider's Top 5 New Year's Resolutions:

Resolution #1: Thank those who provide you with work. You would be astounded at the number of lawyers, accountants, bankers and others who freely admit that they do not properly thank those who have provided them with referrals throughout the year. Thank those who help you immediately and make it your mission to help them in return.

Resolution #2: Keep your referral sources in the loop. If a professional service provider graces you with an introduction to a potential client, keep them informed of your progress with the client and include them whenever possible in meetings.

Resolution #3: Create a team approach. The best professional service providers are true consultants: they listen for a need and act on the best interests of the client. Listen carefully to the needs of your prospects and clients. As you listen to their needs, ask yourself, Who in my network can also help this client? When you promote a team approach, you help those in your network while satisfying the needs of your client.

Resolution #4: Ask your clients for feedback. What's more important than gaining new clients? Keeping your existing clients. Check in with your clients on a regular basis to ask them about their experience with your group. Ask about their challenges and develop creative new ways to provide value.

Resolution #5: Keep an open mind and heart. Make the most of your talented team to storm the market with ideas and approaches that will set new standards of excellence. Make this a spectacular year.

Those are my top five. Let's not settle for anything less. And, last but not least, take the time to assist those who have suffered health and career setbacks--your friends need you. Happy New Year!