Choosing With Whom You Work

In a heartfelt comment to an open plea for insights into his future direction as it regards audience and work, David Maister states this personal, recent, realization:

I don't just want to help or work with anyone: I want to help and work with people who share my philosophies. I really am a believer that Passion, People and Principles are the keys, and I get real fulfillment working with people who are trying to make that real in their lives - junior or senior, "traditional professions" or hard-core manufacturers.

What I don't want to do anymore is to waste time (mine and theirs) trying to convince "hard-nosed, short-term corporate-style people" that there's a better way. I've actually learned that I never "convert" anyone - what I do is to help clarify the thinking of those who shared my views to begin with.

I find it fascinating that David says he doesn't convert anyone. I'll bet he's brought more than a few around...kicking and screaming along the way.

But his next point is key. Whether you're a consultant or CPA, lawyer, or in any other profession.

When—as leader, speaker, or other influencer—your views and values (passion, people, and principles, or otherwise) resonate with others, that is when you have synergy and begin building a team or a following, as it were.

A beautiful lesson in all of this is: as you go about your business, be true to your values. Work with those with whom you have synergy.

If you like a challenge you can try to convert, but isn't your energy better spent where at least somewhat similarly minded people can expand each other's ideas rather than focus all their energy on completely changing the ideas of others?

Comments

[Ellen Weber]

Michelle, you have closed the gaps between what a person values and what plans a person makes in business. What a lovely closure. I am challenged by your encouraging and wise words about synergy. It reminds we of the conversations and ideas that float in the blogophere -- there are so many amazing people with who we have synergy! Thanks for that reminder - it is rich! Great post.