25 - Have an Erin: Your Success Mirrors the Company You Keep
50 Years, 50 Lessons
Lesson 25: Have An Erin - Your Success Mirrors the Company You Keep
We are the company we keep.
The people in our lives say a lot about us. Who we align with, what we tolerate, and our values.
If I reflect on my 50 years, I can recall the people in my life who have been an instrumental part of my success.
In my early days as an OT, I had the most amazing OTA who worked closely with me. She handled my clients perfectly. I was always grateful for the services she provided and the brand she was helping me to create as a professional.
Then I hired office help who started part-time and moved into a full-time role. That wonderful support was there through the early days when we had to figure things out, pivot as the business grew, and brought on new people – all while my four young kids were trying to get her attention through my home-office glass door.
Some of the OTs I brought on over the years became, and remain, my closest confidants. We went through a lot together and did great work. You know who you are.
Then there was Brenda. Love that girl. She brought life to me and my business when I needed new energy. She shared my vision for a work future that we knew we could create through partnership. We also knew we would be better together. She signed up with bells on. Together, we did great things.
Now I have my Erin. Love her too. She takes my stuff and takes it from decent to great. She takes on tasks with enthusiasm and moves my work forward faster than I can. I am grateful she gives me her time, her positivity, and her passion.
When I talk to my clients, they all have their “Brenda” or their “Erin.” They have aligned themselves with someone whom they absolutely trust and rely on to help them bring their business visions to fruition. These are their support team – and are often far more than simply “admin.”
What is important to realize is that none of these people were “costs” to my business. I don’t look at paying out human capital that way.
Understand that everyone in your business is an investment. In them. In you. In your future. Don’t count them like chickens.
How do you find Brendas and Erins?
Be vulnerable and honest about what you need.
Don’t talk about the work, talk about the values behind the work.
Be intentional and bring people in when it scares you a bit.
Delegate and separate roles and responsibilities within interests and skillsets.
Love them like family and be happy for them if they decide to leave for something else. That’s okay. You should want the best for them, especially if they gave their best to you.
Communicate openly and honestly.
Remember, they are an investment, not a cost.
Your Turn
Name your Brenda or your Erin. What do you love about them the most?
To All: Thank you for being on this journey with me – past, present, and future.
Julie
