by Scott Addis
Industry consultants spend a lot of time trying to understand people’s performance. This includes, but is not limited to, an analysis of prospecting, sales skills, customer relationship management and differentiated business development initiatives. The consultant’s performance indicators focus upon a host of quantifiable measures including the number of prospect calls, proposals, new business hit ratios and retention.
Business development performance can be enhanced through the strategies, activities and the measures listed above. There is no question that a strategic business development plan, which incorporates a differentiated sales process, is essential. However, what is often overlooked is a producer’s Emotional Energy – his or her Passion for the business.
In The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader, John Maxwell states, “if you look at the lives of effective leaders, you will find that they often don’t fit the stereotypical mold. For example, more than 50% of all CEO’s of Fortune 500 companies had a “C” or “C-“ average in college. Nearly 75% of all U.S. Presidents were at the bottom half of their school classes. And more than 50% of all millionaire entrepreneurs never finished college. What makes it possible for people who might seem ordinary to achieve great things? The answer is passion. “
The Definition Of Passion
Passion is derived from the Latin word passio and the Greek pathos that denotes deep emotion. Throughout history, passion contained the notion of suffering and endurance. Very broadly, passion is defined as “a strong or intense feeling or emotion”. Passion creates powerful energy. Typically, passion begins as a focused desire but eventually swallows all of the emotions it engenders.
The concept of releasing emotions in business has been around since the beginning of modern time. To our detriment, we chose to suppress it. Traditional business conduct had no place for emotions. Expressing passion in the business setting was considered unprofessional. There was a belief that the release of emotion in business deals made the engagement less effective and less productive. Times have changed. In fact, many of today’s notable business leaders are very emotional people – Jack Welsh, Michael Dell and Mark Cuban, to name a few.
Passion in business is exemplified by loving what you do. No business professional should feel guilty of sharing emotions. After all, humans are emotional creatures. The key lies in learning how to harness and direct your passion so that it serves you in positive ways. Research now substantiates that consumers make buying decisions based, in large part, on emotion. In fact, leading marketers use emotion to create enduring psychological bonds to link the customer to a product or service. Brand consultants often refer to passionately strong brands of companies like Urban Outfitters, Harley Davidson, Starbucks, Krispy Kreme and E-Bay.
The Differentiator Called Passion
Passion is a key differentiator. Passion comes across in verbal energy and body language. You can even see passion in one’s eyes. Unfortunately, passion cannot be trained. However, it can be drawn out. It comes from a love of business and a belief in one’s unique process and package.
John Maxwell teaches us the four truths about passion:
- Passion is a first step to achievement
- Passion increases one’s willpower
- Passion changes you
- Passion makes the impossible possible
Think of passion as the thermostat that measures the intensity of your emotions. The fuel for passion is your purpose. You cannot have passion without a clear understanding of your purpose in the business. Passion is the fuel for your fire. It is the fire in your heart and soul. It impacts your life and those around you. “A leader with great passion and few skills always out performs a leader with great skills and no passion”, states Maxwell.
What is your Passion Index? Ask yourself the following three questions:
- How long has it been since I could not sleep because I was so excited about a new business system, strategy or tool?
- I find myself getting excited when I share my unique “business model”?
- My energy is contagious?
If you answered yes to all three questions, you have a high Passion Index. Congratulations! If not, do not despair. While there is no magic pill for passion, it can be drawn out of you with a clear understanding of, and appreciation for, your business purpose. “What makes it possible for people who might seem ordinary to achieve great things?” The answer is passion. The answer is you!
Note:
An in-demand speaker and award-winning entrepreneur, Scott Addis has climbed to numerous summits and achievements during his career, and he is passionate about helping other professionals realize their own peaks of potential. Scott is a recognized leader who has been awarded the Inc. Magazine “Entrepreneur of the Year” award as well as the “25 Most Innovative Agents in America.” He is also the author of Summit.
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