Getting Real.
Imagine in your mind's eye that you're at a cocktail party and you are introduced to...let's say me. We begin to talk a little and you ask me what I do for a living. Let's say that I respond with "I am a financial advisor." If I told you that, I would be leaving you to discern what it is that I actually do for a living and also what sort of person I am.
Most people relate to a "financial advisor" as one that sells and manages investments. Is that all I do? Is that who I am? No, not even close.
How are people understanding who you are and how you're unique?
Of course: professional competency is crucial for not only your success but for your employer and customers. I am suggesting that you let people know both sides - be authentic.
“Honesty and transparency make you vulnerable,
be honest and transparent anyway.” - Mother Teresa
When you talk to people about yourself - be real, show them who you really are and what you care about. Show them you! Ask them to tell you their story which will give you permission to tell them yours. One caveat - really listen and care.
I chose my auto mechanic and mortgage professional because I saw who they really were - not just what they did. Could someone have fixed my cars or obtained a mortgage for me just as well - perhaps. I just know that I chose them, because of them. And because of them - I am sticking with them!
If I was about to entrust my life savings with an investment professional, I'd rather know her well, rather than simply rely on my opinion of her car, house, job title or status (think Bernie Madoff).
I chose my career path because I truly want to help people live fulfilling lives and leave lasting legacies. I want to see people enjoy and get the most out of life. I work hard so my clients don't have to worry. I instill peace-of-mind in my clients.
I leave you with this. This is a paragraph taken from a document of mine called my PoD. This document was very difficult to create. It reminds me daily of who I am, who I aspire to be, to whom I give credit and to those I serve. I read it each morning and listen to the audio recording of it every night. I'm sharing it (albeit scared to death) so that hopefully one day you'll share yours.
"...I am a modern day knight making eternal and impactful changes in people’s lives being in tireless service to God creating and enriching relationships wherever I go. I bring both financial and relational hope and peace of mind to all of whom God calls on me to serve..."
Now it's your turn.
Well written. Professionals following this advice will not only serve their employers well but make the world a better place!
ReplyDeleteJeff - glad to read your blog post.
ReplyDeleteNot long ago, I asked the Lord to help me identify my Life Goal - ministry, stewardship area, whatever we may call it. The Word I got was "Family", or more specifically, "family-ies." I know understand (at 61 years of age) what I've never quite grasped before: My primary responsibility is to provide a stable spiritual environment for my family, so it can grow.
Thank you so much for sharing. Just as Paul spoke to Timothy in how important it is that we provide for our families right? That is a calling, an obligation for sure and indeed an honor to do so. I encourage you on your most difficult days to indeed think of it as an honor.
ReplyDelete