How to Select the Better Opportunities

Invariably when one interesting opportunity is presented several more soon follow. Given time is short, and we wish to deliver our best each time, it becomes necessary to decline some while seeking out the best.

The careful scrutiny of opportunities presented is necessary because:

Consistency with values and priorities is essential

Messaging about new projects conveys your personal brand

Careful evaluation is more likely to lead to success

Alignment of values and vision with opportunity improves overall success

My Story

In the early years of entrepreneurship, many individuals told me “You’ve got to join this in order to get known.” The events that proved to be a waste of time and money were excellent teachers for what to avoid in the future.

Two very important lessons revealed themselves about future avoidance.

Avoid the type of individuals who mandate, “You’ve got to…”

Listen to intuition to recognize what will or will not be a good fit.

The irony is that I’m a salesperson yet dislike being sold-to in no uncertain terms. This, too, is a great lesson for what to avoid. Given we are each unique in our thought and makeup, it’s inappropriate to believe we can and should convince others as to how they are to behave or conduct business.

At best. we are able to offer insights as to why we find benefit in order to help a prospective client come to a conclusion on their own. Allowing prospective clients to decide for themselves transforms into loyal clients.

This is the journey of entrepreneurship; to weed out which direction to head and with whom to make the trip. It becomes a soulful journey with lifelong friends. This alone leads the way to grander vision, higher goals, and a far more rewarding business.

Likewise, as you seek to advance your career, all types of advice will be provided but not match your values or priorities. Recognizing the poor advice will lead you to a better suited position.

Your Story

Review the past opportunities that appeared to be handed to you on a silver platter. Were you coerced into any or did you happily accept? In the end, how did they work out? Although some offers may sound outstanding in your own mind, they won’t all necessarily work out as expected.

Consider where you might improve making future decisions of this nature:

Did you ask enough questions?

Were any facts left unanswered?

Did you have lingering questions but accepted anyway?

Over time, the lesson comes in loud and clear to be bold about getting all of your questions answered upfront. Come to agreement with all terms including financial. Anything not sounding 100% straight-forward, either question further or walk away.

By getting the facts upfront, you will have a far improved outcome most of the time. Most of all, make certain the outcome portrayed sounds as if it will benefit all concerned.

The bigger picture is for everyone to believe the opportunity will be a win. This is a sign that the opportunity will play out well.

Sales Tips:

Pose as many questions as possible about each presented opportunity

Compare opportunities with your core values and priorities

Walk away from any offer that doesn’t sound right or causes concern

Seek out consistency in the messaging of offered opportunities with yours

Ask for anticipated time commitment

Inquire as to the deadline for completion of the project

Be familiar with the anticipated outcome(s)

Determine if your expertise will add to the anticipated outcome(s)

Consider whether your clientele will find interest in the offered opportunity

Determine if you can justify the time involvement for partaking in the opportunity

Following these guidelines will lead you to the Smooth Sale!