Success? Age? Learn to Listen!

Many people have a vision of success and knowledge as being older and having many successes prior and being wise, but this sometimes is far from the case. If we take a look at Dan Price (Gravity Payments), Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook), Brian Chesky (Airbnb), Travis Kalanick (Uber), Steve Jobs (Apple) were young when founding their companies and have all become successful without previous successes. Why? In my opinion is they adapted, learned, and focused on the customer and demand that wasn't being met. What do we want as customers? It's human nature to want to be served when we want it and with the millennial generation, it's becoming more and more important to give control to the individual and let them make their own choices on their terms. We like having options. People are now looking for that individualized treatment. How would you like to be approached? If I were to tell you "in order to get what you want you have to do all the steps that I tell you" or I come to you and ask about you, listen to your needs, listen to your goals, listen to what you want, then offer you options that fit these criteria that you mentioned. Which service or person would you work with? I would bet 99% of you would rather the person who came to you, listened, cared, and gave you options that YOU can choose. 

The proof is in the success of the businesses above and many others that are seeing success just from listening and catering to the customer more on their terms. Why do we all have smartphones and why is mobile advertising the fastest growing form of advertising? We are in control, we have access on our terms, we can do it when, where, and how we want.  I have had the opportunity to meet people from all areas of the world and all levels of seniority at companies and have found one thing in common that makes them successful. It's the drive to be innovative and being able to adapt. No matter the age or wealth, it boils back to the outlook they have. They may be a jerk and successful but vice versa, they are very friendly and open. No matter what though they all look at things a little different and make sure they are listening to what the customer is looking for or thinking what the customer will need to make their life easier.

I wanted to write this post because too many times I have seen great talent pushed down, great people told they can't, and found so many companies that can be great but refuse to adapt and change. Being a professional racing driver has given me the opportunity to meet and connect with so many successful individuals which have taught me so much. I learned early to ask as many questions as I can and ask for help if needed. When you think about it, how good do you feel when you have the opportunity to help someone, help them succeed, know that you have done good. I want to leave you with something to think about, when you have a problem, try to figure it out to the best of your ability but if you get stuck ask someone for help and listen, next time you wonder why your business is struggling, ask how can my service/product make the job, day, life better and less stressful for someone. I want to thank everyone who has helped me get to where I am today and pushed me, told me "I can", and mentored me. Each one of you reading this I am sure have inspired me in some way or have something you can teach someone. Age doesn't matter, take chances, and learn to listen!