Recruiting Bootcamp Tip #7 - WORK FEARLESSLY

I have a small suburban “farm” just north of Dallas. On my farm I have four cats – a lean and tough tomcat who brings us “presents” every day; a chubby devil-may-care tabby; a very chubby southern belle calico; and a tiny spitfire who thinks she’s the boss of everyone. I also have three great dogs – a beautiful, super sweet Great Pyrenes, a way-too-smart German Shepherd... and a dopey, all-bark-and-no-bite German Pointer.

Our fur factory keeps us busy vacuuming, cleaning litter boxes, and taking walks around the park. Some would say that we have too many pets for a suburban neighborhood. And these people would be correct. But we love them anyway. 

Our latest addition is the loveable German Pointer named “Charlie.” He’s a handsome boy, endearingly gentle and loves to cuddle. But, unlike most big dogs, Charlie’s scared of his own shadow. Literally. He’s also terrified vacuum cleaners, birds, thunder, the garbageman and grasshoppers. He is a wuss of monumental proportions.

Despite his gutless chicken-heart, Charlie isn’t deterred from doing his job. He patrols the front windows of our home, ever vigilant against evil squirrels, dangerous joggers, and small children. He barks with such earnestness and sincerity that, if you really knew what a complete baby he is, just makes you shake your head and laugh.

Nonetheless, Charlie has taught me some valuable lessons about work… he’s really a great example for us all.

He buries his fear each and every day and attacks work with gusto and bravado… even though it’s usually fleeting bravado. Regardless of his natural inclination to hide under the bed or curl up with us, Charlie gets out there every day, consistently working to fulfill his duties. He’ll take time to play and relax, but when it’s time to work, it’s “go time.”

He doesn’t let others deter him from protecting his perimeter. When Charlie’s on the job, he ignores all tasks that take him away from his #1 goal. With laser-like focus, he paces back and forth across the house, ensuring everything is in its place and all those under his watch are unmolested.

And once the day is over, and he’s checked all the doors with me before bed, he’ll relax by playing with a cat-buddy or two, wrestle with me, or run happily like a maniac all through the house. He celebrates each day’s hard work and never forgets to maintain his relationships with the other housemates.

As recruiting professionals, we should follow Charlie’s lead. Come to work ready to do just that. Get your head in the game and stay focused. Don’t let distractions pull you away from your goals. And, after all is said and done, if you can honestly say to yourself you’ve given it all you’ve got, don’t forget to relax, celebrate, and enjoy those God put in your life.