Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Trustworthiness in Business

The meeting today went well. The format changed at the last minute. What was anticipated to be a more formal setting turned into a 2-hour informal discussion. It was all good though. It may take a couple of additional visits to get a deal put together, but it looks promising.

These meetings are exhausting. I get "keyed up" prior to them and then experience a big letdown afterward -- no matter whether they are good or bad. I think it is due to fatigue. After a good night's rest it will be easier to critically evaluate the discussions.

This particular opportunity could catapult our company to a much higher level of recognition in the industry while providing a steady stream of business. The prospect in this case is considered a major player in the industry. Part of the structure that we are evaluating is a co-marketing arrangement with them that would create a brand identity. It definitely has the potential of a large win-win scenario.

Tomorrow begins the follow-up and follow-through stage of the process. We each have tasks to accomplish quickly that will determine movement to the next stage of discussions. Say what you will do and do what you say. Reputation is crucial. We have worked hard to build a solid reputation of excellent service, timely delivery, and value for the investment.

I've always tried to teach my kids that the only thing you truly own in this life is your word. Everything else can be taken away from you (just read up on Job in the Old Testament). Whether or not your word is trustworthy defines who you are to a large extent. Will you deliver on your promise? Will you do what you said you would? The perception that others have of you in this regard can often determine your success or failure. Many businesses and individuals have lost sight of the value of honesty, integrity, and trustworthiness. It's too bad.

9 comments:

Gregg Nichols said...

I can relate to the fatigue after chasing deals... I am in the banking business and competition is fierce!

By the way, I am Plowing & Sowing's brother.

Not too much poetry on my blog, but good stories and memories... web.mac.com/gregg.nichols

Hang tough and close the deal!

Chris McClure aka Panhandle Poet said...

Gregg - I spent 7+ years in the banking business. It wore me out.

Ranando said...

Well said and agreed.

WomanHonorThyself said...

the only thing you truly own in this life is your word. ..Amen Poet!

bigwhitehat said...

Try chocolate milk right after the presentation.

The sugar will immediately elevate your blood sugar back to a normal level. And the cassien based protein will feed those muscles which just got attacked by cortisol.

Don't neglect to eat before your presentation either. Even if it a small amount, eating something will help with that post presentation crash. The more keyed up you get the bigger the toll on your blood sugar.

I hope you score on this deal amigo.

Chris McClure aka Panhandle Poet said...

BWH: Ate before and ate after. Biggest problem is little sleep the night before. ....the wheels go 'round and 'round and 'round...
not really worry - just checking details.

Incognito said...

Love it... so true!

Good luck with the deal. Just know that if it's meant to be, it will happen. All you can do is do your best. God does the rest.

I finally learned to do that with my auditions. I put the energy out there, do my best and then let it go.

Chris McClure aka Panhandle Poet said...

Incognito: Every step is in prayer and by faith.

Anonymous said...

I'd never make it in your line of work. I'm not a "people person."

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