Meeting Bigs
We had some folks from our corporate home office visit us last week. Normally, in my previous jobs, this was a big deal. Having folks from Home Office visit was a chance for me to meet them and get to know them personally. I would also able to ask them questions and hear insights as to where the future of our company was going as well as give feedback as to how we collectively could make it better.
When you are 100% commission and the only thing that really matters is if you bring in revenue or not the importance of these meetings changes.
When you are hourly/salary, their visit can hold more meaning because your job is directly affected by the actions they take. Are they changing the comp plan? Will they provide more support for us regarding the systems we use? Are they going to scale back folks in my position? What happens when our policies change and how will that affect our customers/supplies, etc.?
Yes these things can also make an impact on me and my business but many times they are more indirect than not.
So my approach to the whole meeting was different. Do I really need to attend, or should I be out meeting with partners and clients to generate more business? Is what I am going to hear going to ultimate help me achieve my sales goals?
A Real Christian Businessman realizes attending these meetings DOES have an impact. It may not directly impact me achieving my sales goals, but it does impact how I can have an influence on others. My attitude and approach with the corporate office folks, the managers, and my fellow colleagues all can be an example of how a believer is to act when in settings like this.
“Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity.” Tit 2:7 (ESV)
So, I attended and had a great time. I didn’t talk too much or ask any questions (well, I did ask one – much less than my usual amount as my old colleagues from the past will attest to!). I talked kindly and mingled with folks. I was encouraging to my co-workers and listened intently to the leaders as they gave their presentations.
So the next time you have to attend one of these meetings with all the executives and bosses, just be yourself, be encouraging and be an example that others will remember.
That’s just what a Real Christian Businessman is supposed to do.