By Gerald Daniels
A recent meeting with an architect I work with involved going over the design/build specifications and how each phase of the project needs to be integrally connected to the next phase to insure continuity with each subcontractor. After the meeting, the architect admitted to me that he had been dealing with various subcontractors who were not living up to his expectations work-wise because of their personalities.
This particular architect goes the extra mile, to emphasize results-oriented communication that eliminates grumbling, complaining, and excuses. In the construction industry you have the engineers, architects, general contractors, subcontractors, the rough and tumble labor force, and material providers. These professionals, tradesmen, and laborers are the common link between an owner and a buyer. Throughout the building process each individual’s personality emerges and it will in some way have an effect on the company’s bottom line.
The architect and I agreed that it is during the bidding and contract awarding phases of a project when every subcontractor is on their best behavior. They want to get the business so the answer to any question he asks is, “Yes, we can do that,” or “I’ll get someone right on it.” He went on to say that as projects begin to unfold, and the inevitable problems occur, pressure mounts and the true personalities begin to emerge. Instead of “yes” the answer to the questions becomes “no” accompanied by a myriad of excuses. This is the type of behavior that is typical of personality and crisis driven organizations that are motivated primarily by reward and punishment.
My visit with the architect ended with me sharing the importance of being motivated by your purpose, and how that will keep you and your organization from falling into the personality and crisis driven trap. Purpose Unlimited has found that there are four basic elements that determine whether or not organizations or individuals have accurately identified their purpose:
1) Your Purpose is positive. You are put here to make a positive contribution in life.
2) Your Purpose is powerful. Your purpose is part of something much bigger than you are.
3) Your Purpose is simple. It’s a verse, not a dissertation.
4) Your Purpose is serving. It always has to do with serving others.
These are the four mental post-its I use to keep my life and business on purpose.
The personality and crisis driven organization results in I win, you lose behavior. It is a constant roller coaster ride that has a detrimental effect on customer service, employee enthusiasm and ultimately the bottom line.
Purpose is the guiding principle that gives you an advantage along life’s highway. It results in I win, you win behavior. It keeps you focused in life and in business. Being purpose driven instead of personality or crisis driven will simplify your relationships, improve your livelihood, and transform your future.