Page 38 - GS240101_Flipbook

Inspiration

Lean into your strengths this year

ith this, our first issue of 2024, we mark a merchant's day with a touch of humor and kind words.
time of transition when people in all walks Also consider what motivated you to embark on a career
of life evaluate their results for 2023 and in merchant services. Many people's career choices have
W plan for the year ahead. This, of course, been influenced by external factors. Could you have cho-
includes those of us in the payments industry. Some pro- sen your current path because your family expected you
fessionals in our sphere will be staying the course with, to, or because you wanted to emulate someone you admire
perhaps, minor tweaks; others will be ready for a total greatly? If so, consider whether your strengths and skills
revamp of their business plans and sales approaches; actually align with these external influences.
many will be somewhere between them along a continu-
um of possibilities. It's OK to find your own way. It could be you're a merchant
level salesperson, ISO owner or other service provider
But how many have taken time out to evaluate their in- who has found your groove, and you're set for continued
dividual strengths as part of this process? If you haven't success. But maybe you're doing well in a sales position
done this, I suggest you do so before solidifying plans for but you're really a geek at heart, and you have an innova-
the coming year. Here's why: self-awareness enhances suc- tion in mind that you dream of developing and bringing
cess in business, and in sales its importance is profound. to market. If so, could transition to the R&D side of fintech
and payments? Or the opposite might be true. Your tech-
So, reflect on the past year. What were your standout mo- nical knowledge may be useful on the back end, but you're
ments? When did you feel most in your element? What happiest when you're helping people discover solutions
tasks or responsibilities did you excel at effortlessly? The that are just right for them.
answers to these questions will be indicators of your
strengths. And understanding and capitalizing on where Once you've taken stock of your strengths, ask yourself
you excel can make all the difference between mediocrity how you can amplify them to achieve your goals. Seek op-
and excellence. portunities to hone your skills further and explore ways
to fully incorporate your strengths into your work. Also,
One common pitfall is attempting to conform to a one- seek mentors and colleagues who can help you make the
size-fits-all approach. You may have received sales train- most of your unique abilities.
ing that includes scripts and other methods that worked
for those who are guiding you but simply do not work for The journey of self-discovery and development is ongo-
you. Our industry emphasizes the importance of listening ing, and the rewards are boundless.
well to build relationships and provide tailored solutions.
This is spot on. But there are many ways to do this. Your
mentor may be a serious, just-the-facts-please sort of per-
son who instills confidence in prospects this way. But you
might be more lighthearted with an ability to brighten a
Kate Gillespie, President and CEO

38