Taking the first step is often hardest. Whenever I sit with a potential client for the first time, I start by reminding them we are now a team. New teammates sometimes have to get acclimated to each other and learn the rhythm of the other before the collaboration on the field is seamless. Communication is key in the beginning but trying to nail each part of this process on day 1 is a recipe for failure.
Reminding my teammate and myself of the following factors ensures we already won before we kicked off:
This is the first of many conversations. We do not need to tackle every topic today.
The best outcome of today is kicking off a strong discovery process. This means we have really begun the work to understand what is at stake and which areas are most important.
You have to start somewhere. It may feel like we are trying to drink from the fire hose at first, but just like any game, we will get into a good cadence once we start.
We will prioritize together...and as we go. Neither of us knows exactly what will be the ideal focal point until we are enmeshed in our work.
We already won. Why? Because we finished the first step...just getting started.
"Trust is built by seeing actions rather than be hearing promises."
- Judah Karkowsky
Judah Karkowsky leads the Strategic Consulting practice at Leverage Point Group. With nearly two decades in the technology and finance sectors and collaboration with over 200 companies, Karkowsky brings a wealth of firsthand knowledge and experience. Contact him at info@levpg.com.
Comments