When it comes to relationships, there is nothing sweeter than finding the right fit. When both parties are equally passionate about the future, equally committed to working towards their shared dreams, and equally willing to grow, amazing things happen.
This is true for friendships, marriages, and business partnerships. Just think for a few moments on all the different relationships you’ve had in your lifetime. Now focus on those that were the most amazing. I bet they all shared the same core characteristic: you and the other person were a strong fit for each other, which allowed both of you to grow and benefit from the relationship.
I am a passionate advocate for The Gallup Organization and their research on the importance of strengths. Throughout their research, they have found that the right fit is at the bedrock of optimal performance for individuals within organizations. I’m taking the liberty to extend this to relationships of all types, but especially the creative partnerships we forge with our clients.
The past two days have given me two tremendously positive experiences, which underscored the importance of fit. One client completed our Digital Blueprint (comprehensive 1-3 year digital-centric connection strategy) and the other completed a Project Blueprint (thorough planning process for a specific initiative - website redesign in this case).
Prior to even approaching either client to start the sales process, we created a profile for the ideal client and identified potential organizations who might fit that profile within their respective industries. During every step of the sales process, we emphasized with both prospective clients our desire to work with clients who: want to pull off big things, understand that digital is the future, and seek a partner like us to help guide them over the next 3-5 years.
Just like a couple on a first date, we talked about what we’re looking for in our clients and how we see the world. We remain vigilant on one thing throughout these conversations: is there a strong fit between what we excel at and what the prospective client truly wants? Because if there isn’t a strong fit, we’re just not right for each other and we’re both better off recognizing that reality and moving on to someone else.
We know we are a high voltage group of people, who can easily overwhelm and frustrate someone who is just seeking incremental change or is just experimenting with digital media. And, anyone who has been in an ill-fitting relationship can appreciate the futility of trying to force a fit. When one partner is giving more to the relationship, it becomes lopsided, co-dependent, dysfunctional, and doomed.
For those with whom we share a strong fit, the results are spectacular and transformational. You can see their minds widening and opening up to new possibilities. You can feel the trust and enthusiasm for the final recommendations. You can experience the passion we pour into executing the creative designs and delivering the final product.
That’s why we’re always looking for believers, not trying to make them.
What has been your experience with the importance of fit?