Without passion you don't have energy, with out energy you have nothing - Donald Trump
Passion is the genesis of genius - Tony Robbins
To provide outstanding results for our clients, we need outstanding results from those that support our businesses.
Accountants, consultants, attorneys, financial advisers, maintenance contractors, graphic designers, web designers, IT professionals, interior designers, video producers - this is just a partial list of the service professionals with whom most of us interact.
Before hiring one of them there's always an initial interview or consultation. In it I'm looking for the answer to a few basic questions:
- Does the person or team have the requisite competencies?
- Do they want my business?
- Are their communication skills up to the job?
- Are they excited about my project?
- Do they understand and support my objectives?
- Are they committed to delivering outstanding results?
- Are they passionate about what they do?
Surprisingly, I'm often left without convincing positive answers. Once in a while I interview someone that leaves absolutely no doubt.
What makes the difference? In a word, "passion" and passion is always driven by an overwhelming interest in delivering value to the client. With it, all of the answers become "yes". When I find a person or organization that exudes passion I sign an agreement with them as fast as I can get the pen out of my desk.
Rick,
I'll add another one to your list:
Will my team be more knowledgeable after the project is complete?
Occasionally I want an outside expert that will just "do the job" and not bother me with the details. However, most of the time I want someone who will help my team understand their approach and how we can be more effective with or without their assistance.
Working with a lawyer is a great example. We’ll always need their advice, but if they can help us better understand business law, we’ll be more effective at avoiding trouble spots.
All the best!
Melissa
Posted by: Melissa Paulik | August 31, 2009 at 01:26 PM