Benefits Of Persistence:With Technology And People

Terry L. Brock

The other day I was working with a client to solve a problem he was having with his computer. We looked at the issue and then tried a couple of other possibilities. While working on those other options to solve the problem we discovered a whole new series of options that he had available---without purchasing anything new.

By staying with it, and not giving up, we were able to come up with some solutions that not only solved one problem but created many new revenue-generating opportunities. This is a good example of the application of what I call “Smart Persistence.”

Smart Persistence goes beyond a mere strong-willed determination to see something through. It involves a starting presupposition to know what is appropriate before the tactics of “staying with it” are applied. In the situation with my client, we knew what had to be done for his business. We remained flexible to try various alternatives and worked diligently as we explored many possible options.

When you employ the power of Smart Persistence with technology, you focus on what needs to be done and creatively work to explore not only a solution to the problem at hand, but you remember the “why” behind the work. You get involved at the micro level to solve the problem while keeping in mind the macro goal that you are trying to accomplish.

It is important to continually look for new answers to a problem. You will often try one tactic but change as new information is discovered. As long as you keep your eye on the prize of the overall goal, you’ll move forward.

Earl Nightingale told us that the difference between successful people and those who fail often is that successful people take just that one more essential attempt to make it work. Those who fail give up when the going gets tough. They cave in. They get frustrated, blame it on anything other than their own lack of Smart Persistence and move on to the next task---only to fail again.

Russell Conwell was famous for his speech on “Acres of Diamonds” (treat yourself by reading it if you haven’t yet). He stressed the benefits of finding the diamonds in our own backyard by staying with what we’re doing. This is an example of Smart Persistence.

Technology requires persistence. Smart Persistence requires us to adopt what I call “Not Yet” thinking. When asked if they can do something, those who are not successful complain and come up with excuses why it won’t work for them. However, if instead, you have an eternally-optimistic view that responds with “Not Yet” thinking you are affirming that you might not be able to do something currently, but you can with the right training, learning, education and assistance later. When someone asks you if you can do a particular technological task, you look them in the eye and honestly say, “Not yet!” This has the necessary seed of a positive attitude built into it to give you what you need. Your mind begins looking for a solution as you remember the overall goal.

Successful people understand that anything worthwhile requires diligent work. In a knowledge-based society which ours is today, this requires us to constantly seek new learning through books, audio training, video training, taking courses, attending seminars, hiring coaches to help and doing whatever is necessary to acquire the skills we need.

Relationship Marketing requires persistence as well. To successfully build your business means that you establish, nurture and build relationships with customers, employees, suppliers and other stake holders who are involved in your business. Smart Persistence in Relationship Marketing means that you’ll use your judgment and have a good vision of what is your overall goal. Smart Persistence means that you will need to relinquish some customers as they don’t fit into your overall goals. Wish them well and move along. Other times you’ll need to apply a bit more Smart Persistence in working with “temporarily difficult” customers to convert them into delighted, loyal, profitable customers. Sometimes they’re “not yet” delighted, loyal and profitable. To achieve those goals often requires Smart Persistence.

As you apply the principles of Smart Persistence and “Not Yet” thinking to your technology and Relationship Marketing you’ll have a competitive advantage. The competition will give up when things get tough. You, however, will embrace “Not Yet” thinking and incorporate Smart Persistence to achieve your goals.

Terry Brock is an international marketing coach and columnist who helps businesses market more effectively, leveraging technology. He shows busy professionals how to squeeze more out of their days using time-honored rules and practical technology tools. He can be reached at 407-363-0505, by e-mail at terry@terrybrock.com or through his website at www.terrybrock.com.

Copyright © 2007, Terry Brock, All Rights Reserved Internationally. No portion may be reprinted or used without prior written permission.