How will people remember you or your personal brand? Do you care?
October 30th, 2008 John LilleyOver the past month I have started a new job and had the chance to speak with many talented, successful and professional individuals. It has been an exhilarating journey across many geographical and cultural boundaries. This is the basis of my passion for the franchising business model, seeing people from all kinds of backgrounds doing remarkable things with their lives once they have decided to leave the percieved security of corporate life.
It was almost ten years ago that I spoke with a freelance IT specialist about why they decided to work for themselves. The answer they gave was;
“I do not like the insecurity of being a permanent employee!”
That was 10 years ago and in today’s climate it is as poignant as it was then. The principle of being in a franchise is that you are in business for yourself but you are not by yourself. There a message there even for those in full time employment. You should consider yourself in business and strive to deliver against your goals that benefit your company as a whole. there is a wonderful paradox that occurs when you help others achieve their goals, you tend to achieve your own!
As I spoke to the owners of my new network it became apparent that a lot of credence is given to previous accolades, qualifications and brands that people have worked for. More importantly, particularly in a franchise network, is the respect shown for those that are seen to truly care about them, their business and their families. A franchisee wants to be part of something bigger and to be connected to a group of people that care about their future success. The fate share involved in franchising is infectious and forms the life blood for a successful business model.
During one conversation I was reminded of an old quiz that can be found all over the internet and in some management text books. The quiz is often mistakenly attributed to Charles Schulz (not Schultz!) of the cartoon Peanuts fame. The owners of the Charles M. Schulz Museum are often asked about this quote and have confirmed it was not attributed to Charles Schulz. If anyone has the definative answer to the creator let me know and I’ll give appropriate recognition.
Try the quiz below, I have adjusted slightly for an international audience, do not dwell on each and see how you go:
1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Olympic 100 meters gold medalists.
3. Name five people who have won the Nobel Peace prize.
4. Name five Academy Award winners for best actor or
actress.
5. Name the last decade’s worth of World cup winners.
How did you do?
The point is, few of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no
second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause
dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten. Accolades and
certificates are buried with their owners.
Here’s another quiz. See how you do on this one:
1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three people who have helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of five people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.
6. Name half a dozen heroes whose stories have inspired you.
Easier?
The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones
with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the
ones that care.
Personally I find this a little unfair because I have not spent time with a Nobel prize winner or got to know personally the winners of a 100 meters final. If I had then they may have shared with me a little of what led to them making their achievements and therefore played a bigger part in my ability to succeed in my own life. The sentiment, however, remains strong by caring about others and helping them to achieve in their own lives you develop a strong personal brand that will last and last. You have to give to get, make caring part of of your personal brand it will go along way and benefit you time and again in the future.
