I was at a park watching a couple of ducks make their way from one side of a lake to the other recently and was struck with the ease at which they did so. They simply glided across the surface effortlessly, disturbing the water only slightly and leaving a nice V shape in their wake as the only indication they had been there. It looked serene.
Effortless it wasn't though. Beneath the surface they were paddling like mad to maintain forward momentum and if they stopped, for even the briefest of moments, their progress would slow and eventually cease altogether. It reminded me of business.
You see outwardly I believe one should portray confidence, ability and self-control in business. No one wants to deal with someone who acts like the Tasmanian Devil of the Warner Brother's cartoons do they? Certainly I'd like to deal with people who present in a measured and calculated way; I think it inspires trust and confidence. Behind the scenes in any business it may seem hectic, chaotic and out of control however outwardly portraying the duck on a pond type of serenity and order is preferable when clients are concerned. I believe it is also wise to present that way for colleagues and suppliers, not just clients. It's a more professional way to present and less stressful for those we deal with.
Be a duck? Well no, not quite...Be professional, present to the best of your ability, calmly and confidently...Yes.
