Time-efficiency, productivity and inspired motivation all serve to get us to goal quickly. But it’s wise on occasion to slow down to review and easily measure performance.
From the beginning of our endeavor to approximately the middle of the lifecycle, we mostly chug along. Although we will implement new strategies along the way, we appear to others and ourselves to be remaining on the straight and narrow path. All the while, we question whether we will ‘make it’ as well as make the entire effort worthwhile.
It seems as if it’s out of nowhere when we appear to be past the half-way mark. Malcolm Gladwell used the perfect terminology, that of “The Tipping Point.” Followings increase more rapidly, more people not only read articles posted but comment on them, too, and recognition arrives that take us by surprise.
I’m the one who advocates keeping a running task list at all times and continually reviewing goals and strategies to move up the speed dial for achievement. But I’ve come to recognize when the unexpected favorable notices and offers come one’s way; it’s time to stop, look and listen.
Gather the facts as to what is bringing in favorable attention. Once the understanding is ours, we may then begin to leverage what is working especially well. The only caution is to heed the sentiment of “analysis paralysis.” Instead, review what ‘just happened’ to continue on the motivated path of finding even greater success.
It’s always wise to keep an eye on what is working best. Gaining the knowledge of your success keys early on in your career will help you advance more quickly.
Steps to Take
Review projects where interest increased. Look for similarities in intent or commonalities regarding the subject matter. For example, when articles received an unusual number of likes and views determine if more insight on the topic is worthwhile. Leverage is the best concept taught to me. In this instance, you may leverage your writing in the form of formal training, speaking engagements, and webinars. Keep watch on the growth of your social followings. Take time to consider why spurts of growth take place. Did you collaborate with someone new, make an announcement, or take a new direction at one point? Test the same to see if another growth spurt occurs. Review each path where noticeable increase or decrease of attention is evident. Discard those not worthy of your time and develop ways to make the attention-getting routes more robust. Compare and Contrast the unnoticed with the attention-getting efforts. Figure out the why one project worked and the other didn’t; what were the differences? These are excellent lessons in disguise. Discuss your findings with trusted peers to inquire if they have further insight to share. Admitting what does not work encourages others to do the same. And when everyone shares what works best, it is then likely to find the success you seek.
Sales Tips
Make it a monthly habit to review where you are. Give serious thought to the details of the worst occurrences of the past month. Recount the highlights of the past months. Comprehend the lessons learned from both the good and bad that just took place. Revise your business plan. Update your goals and milestones to achieve. Confer with peers to exchange worst and best moments. As a group develops, gain consensus on the better strategies to implement. Compare and contrast next months outcome with the previous to tweak plans once again. Celebrate Success! Following these guidelines will lead you to the Smooth Sale!