I was recently having dinner with a friend, and I asked him how he deals with negative people (clients, agents, etc.). He told me that he considers himself a lightning rod. Yes, a lightning rod. Bear with me on this.
Here’s the definition of a lighting rod: a metal rod or wire fixed to an exposed part of a building or other tall structure to divert lightning harmlessly into the ground.
He explained in more detail that if a complaint comes in about his company, an employee, or a partner, he is the lighting rod that protects those folks. I think this is an amazing analogy!
As you go into the week, if someone yells at you for something illogical, try to be the lightning rod that protects the deal, our people, and your other clients. Oh, and if you’re getting zapped by the lighting, don’t forget not to take it personally!
Life is good.
Jeff