"Why did I not think of that?"  Those words are often spoken when simple ideas are put into action and become reality with great success.  "I wonder who came up with that idea?" This is another common question that occurs when we are amazed at a concept that we did not consider.  Those were my thoughts this week as I waited to get my deposit slip from the ATM terminal at my bank's main office.  You see, while I waited, there was this huge sign out front on their building, informing all members/customers that the bank had expanded their deposit locations to 15 additional sites around town.

That was great news for all members.  However, what was even more impressive was that they increased their locations and potential revenue streams without adding any additional buildings or ATM terminals.  How did they do that?  They did that by leveraging their existing business relationships, built on trust and proven performance.

One bank along with a non-related delivery service company figured out a way to work together and generate additional revenue opportunities for both parties.  This now leads to even stronger mutually beneficial working relationship, providing both parties with continuous opportunities to perform.

 

How can we benefit from this as professionals?  How can we leverage already existing relationships to better perform our jobs?  How can we improve or increase our companies' services or revenue opportunities?  The answers are all around us.  We just have to think about things differently.  There is an old adage that says, "if you continue to do what you have already done, you will continue to get what you have already gotten."

Today is the beginning of a new quarter, the last quarter in 2010.  Make the decision to make the most of it.  Be a contributor to the success of your company.  Make a difference in the lives that you see and touch each day.  Think differently, read different books, connect with different people.  Be all that you can be as a professional, manager, co-worker, and friend.  Today is your day to make a difference!  You can do it!