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I met this new supplier at a convention. They were perfect… which was practically impossible to find. We had very high standards, even comparatively in the industry.
It was for a new innovative product that I was really excited about, we were making an “instant vitamin smoothie”.
But when I shared this vendor with my team… they weren’t excited.
I reached out to the supplier and asked for more material, more clients, more stories. And tried sharing again. And again… nothing from my team.
I started to share the idea with my peers, outside of my team. And one colleague sparked – she was particularly interested and became just as excited as I was.
We formed a plan. We asked for product samples to share. And we pitched the idea to the right set of stakeholders.
The supplier ended up being a key partner in not just that project, but 3 more as well – which not only gave me a project leadership opportunity,
but my peer grabbed a leadership role as well!
How I push through rejection…
And how my clients create change…
“Rejected pieces aren't failures; unwritten pieces are.” Greg Daugherty Veteran Editor and Writer
I find that most professionals overcomplicate leadership.
They spend years working hard, proving their value, and waiting for the “right time.”
But you can establish yourself as a leader, right now.
By following these 3 simple steps.
The professionals at The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey?
After my workshop, they’re using the same process to confidently lead new innovative ideas.
1. Share your ideas, and learn
Don’t let fear keep you from telling others.
— Strengthen your idea through collaboration.
— Learn who sparks to your idea, and who doesn’t.
— Move past the ones who don’t, start working with those who do.
2. Progress over perfection
Try your idea in an experiment, before it’s ‘ready’
— Focus on one part of your idea.
— Check your assumptions with a pilot.
— Take the failures as learning, adjust, try again.
3. Tell a story
Paint the picture of what’s possible.
— Share your vision of the amazing future.
— Contrast with the current painful reality.
— People don’t see what you see, unless you show them.
This process works—and it works without needing a new degree.
I used it to land a job offer.
I used it to get promoted.
I used it to build my own business.
I used it to grow philanthropic work at my church.
My clients use it to lead authentically, without changing who they are.
Try it out, and don’t forget to tell me how it works for you!
“Rejected pieces aren’t failures; unwritten pieces are.”
Greg Daugherty
Veteran Editor and Writer
