I’m going to the pub, Charlie.
A friend of mine is struggling to come to terms with ‘starting again.’ These past few months Nancy has felt her business not ‘going anywhere.’ Now she feels the need for reinvention, by trying something new.
Is that so strange? I hear you say …
After all, as self-employed entrepreneurs, we have the ability to pivot. There’s no contending with a ‘corporate’ depth of structure. We’re flexible, and for many, we’re able to ‘scale to fit,’ so adapt to the journey.
I’m going to try my hand at being a publican, Charlie. What do you think? Said Nancy.
I did detect a smile. Now, given Nancy had been in the care industry these past several years, you’d be forgiven to think that support of a different kind would be … well, second nature, wouldn’t you?
Nancy, I asked. How long have you been in business?
Two years, Charlie.
You do understand the good things take time don’t you … why not stick to what you do best?
You mean two years of perseverance isn’t enough?
I mean the time it takes to establish who you are, what you do and how you offer solutions to particular problems. Those two years you’ve spent developing relationships …
Yes, I’ve met some great people. It’s just that I can’t see any meaningful business coming my way, Charlie.
Here’s what I mean, Nancy …
The two years you’ve’ invested’ in your new venture. Think of the word ‘invested’ Nancy …
The time we spend engaging and telling the story pays off only when we maintain consistency. The investment in people and the potential in the connection is often missed when we start up Nancy. You know it’s about who your contacts may know, not what they, themselves, are buying, don’t you?
Yeah, I see that, Charlie. It’s the results just seem like such a long time coming along.
Nancy, word of mouth favours the bold.
You and your prospects are considering investing in each other every time you meet. The reality is there are many influences we should consider when looking for success.
Is what you offer needed? Is it urgent? Is now the right time? Do you have what they need and … are you able to do the job? Depending on who you talk to, success does take time.
OK, I get it Charlie, it’s about connections. What do we do now?
Well, why not let’s take a look at that pub you were fond of joining and see who we meet today?
Your shout?
CharlieKenny.me 