My approach works because it is based on five simple, proven principles for success:
- Healthy partnership. Although in some instances competition may be healthy, it is often based on the spirit of “us against them”. You need to learn the principles of successful partnerships, which include a conscious decision to cooperate.
- Communication. You know that a sound building needs a solid foundation. Well, good partnerships and good relationships also need solid foundations, and good communication is key. Good communication means expressing yourself clearly and honestly and also listening well and empathetically. Learning healthy communication can improve all your working relationships and can help you and your customers form bonds that are strong as the structural connections your build into your projects. Your customers will keep coming back.
- Clear documentation. Yeah, yeah, who likes paperwork? Just something else to bog you down, right? There are some straightforward steps you can take for writing out agreements clearly and keeping simple written records. You will save a mountain of trouble down the road and actually support your partnerships. And, most customers LIKE to see clearly defined agreements, notes and changes, as well as clear billing documentation. Clear documentation supports the principles described in the first two points.
- Excellence. Commitment to high standards is almost a given for success in the business and happy customers. Quality workmanship and quality personnel are fundamental building blocks for a steady and sought-after business. Excellence should include a cheerful, thoughtful attitude along with fine workmanship.
- Fun. Enjoy the experience as much as you can, and share the joy! Doing a high level job and acting responsibly are serious matters to a great extent, but humor and a bit of a playful attitude can help keep things going smoothly and enjoyably. People like being around others who make them smile and laugh. And humor and lightness can disarm difficult situations. Add these qualities to superior quality, and you have a hard-to-beat combination.
Stuart listens and shares his insights in a way that allows the best in each learner to flourish. I deeply respect his passion to support with integrity the best in each person with whom he works.-Ellen Hewet, Associate Professor, Springfield College
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