With the release of Man of Steel, once again Superman roared into our lives. Many small business owners demonstrate superpowers every day. From putting out yesterday’s fires to handling today’s challenges, Supermen and Superwomen fly in and out of the crazy busy marketplace. The key difference between these small business owners and the Man of Steel is in the timing of their results.
The comic book hero Superman can — in microseconds — turn a situation around from a negative to a positive. Now, most small business owners know that to improve marketing, to increase sales, and to create an engaged workforce takes months, if not years. Instantaneous results? Well, that is for those small business folks who believe in the quick fix or magic pill.
Sure, the small business owner or professional salesperson can swoop in and maybe solve an immediate disaster with a customer. Yet, he or she recognizes that future business will now depend upon delivering exceptional customer service without any burps to keep that formerly unhappy customer a happy camper.
And maybe these small business professionals don’t have x-ray vision, but through the consistent application of emotional intelligence, they are able to see what is really happening between themselves and customers. This knowledge provides them with an incredible competitive advantage.
As to Superman’s strength — for example stopping a speeding train — well, if working 10 plus hour days; keeping a smile on one’s face when cash flow is constrained because customers are taking 60 to 90 days to pay their invoices; dealing with new compliance issues on top the existing expensive and extensive ones; and then making it to a child’s sports game is not a demonstration of strength, I truly do not know what is.
Today’s small business owners, sales professional and executives are indeed men and women of steel. So the next time you hear those infamous words, “Is it a bird?” or “Is it a plane?” remember you yourself are the hero putting superpowers to the best use.
Photo credit: geektyrant
Leanne Hoagland-Smith is a heurist who disrupts the status quo by discovering new ways to guide and support rapidly growing small businesses; those who wish to grow beyond their current employees and executives in chaos. She can be reached at 219.759.5601 CST.
