When I turned 13 back in 1992 my Aunt bought me a shirt that said Lucky 13 on it. For whatever reason the concept stuck with me, and I've always looked forward to the business turning 13 years old. In this "Lucky 13" of
SalesFirst Recruiting
we’re getting back to the basics with a trimmed-down, high-production team focused on both quality and volume.
If I could go back in time and talk to the version of myself who was just beginning in January 2012, here are the basic messages I’d deliver:
- Don’t force company culture. Let it evolve. You’ll want to create a perfect culture from the get-go, but it’s better to let it grow organically. Focus on values, practical systems, and trusting your people, and then let the culture unfold as the team builds it.
- Try new ideas, but don’t forget the basics. You’ll be tempted to chase shiny new things. It’s okay to experiment, but don’t lose sight of the core principles that got you here. The basics are probably more important than innovation.
- Recognize fear when it arises. When you sense it, dig into why you feel it, and then face it head-on instead of letting it linger. Don’t let fear control you—understand it, confront it, and move forward stronger.
- Be proud of launching careers. People will come and go—that’s part of the journey. When great people move on, don’t take it personally. Be proud of the careers you’ve helped build and keep them in your life.
- Run the numbers. Trust the numbers. Adjust quickly. You’ll learn that data doesn’t lie. When the numbers don’t align, be ready to make adjustments fast. Trust the numbers and use them to guide decisions—don’t ignore them.
- Forget about chasing "work-life balance." What really matters is the ability to move in, up, or out of your business as necessary at any given time. There’s no status in this—it’s just about doing what needs to be done.
Is there anything you’d tell your younger self about business or leadership?
