They are Just that Into You

My website was hosted on the the innovative Squarespace platform and I have nothing but praise for the exceptional team behind it. Interestingly, the Squarespace folks posted what I thought was something noteworthy. It seems that they have just hired someone, a versatile talent known for his skills as a web developer / designer / blogger / twitterer,  by the name of Jonathan Snook, and well, they were pretty excited about it. Apparently, this was something they had been trying to make happen for quite some time. And now, he was on board. 

Think about it for a second. Shouldn’t we all aim to be this wanted and welcomed when we sell or loan our talent to someone new? Whether it is working on a new project team, or switching departments within our current organization, or changing to a new company, or volunteering to serve on a not-for-profit Board, generating anticipation and a celebratory reaction on the part of your new boss / colleagues is a bar worth aiming for. 

This sentiment is not only relevant for individuals like Jonathan Snook but also extends to entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals like myself. If we are playing our cards right, we should be doing business with people / organizations who are pretty happy to have us on the job. 

1. Creating Anticipation: Squarespace's excitement about hiring Jonathan Snook underscores the significance of creating anticipation and a celebratory atmosphere when bringing new talent on board. This anticipation is not just limited to large corporations; it's a valuable principle for anyone changing roles, whether within a current organization or when transitioning to a new one. The idea is to aim for a reaction from your new colleagues that reflects genuine enthusiasm for having you as part of the team.

2. A High Bar to Aim For: The concept might seem like a high bar to reach, but the underlying message is clear—strive to be in demand, to be the person everyone is eager to work with. Whether you're collaborating on a project team, switching departments, changing companies, or taking on a new role in a not-for-profit organization, the goal is to be the person everyone is excited to welcome. This level of enthusiasm speaks volumes about your skills, reputation, and the value you bring to the table.

3. Relevance for Entrepreneurs and Self-Employed Professionals: This principle is equally relevant for entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals. By playing our cards right, we should be doing business with individuals and organizations that are genuinely thrilled to have us on board. It's not just about being in demand; it's about strategically positioning ourselves in a market segment that truly appreciates our unique skills and offerings.

4. Identifying Your Market Segment: The idea becomes more achievable when you've identified a segment of the market that resonates with your unique talents. By positioning yourself where your target audience can appreciate your work and unique gifts, you increase the likelihood of generating excitement and anticipation when you enter a new professional space.

5. The Power of Recognition: Recognition is a crucial element in this equation. Squarespace's announcement about Jonathan Snook wasn't just about hiring a web developer—it was about bringing on board someone recognized and celebrated in the industry. This highlights the importance of actively building a personal brand and ensuring that those who can appreciate your skills are aware of your presence.

In a professional landscape where competition is fierce, the power of being wanted, in demand and welcomed is immeasurable. Squarespace's excitement over Jonathan Snook's addition to their team serves as a valuable lesson for all professionals, emphasizing the impact of creating anticipation, being in demand, and strategically positioning oneself where their unique talents are recognized and celebrated. It's a high bar, but the rewards in terms of career satisfaction, opportunities, and professional relationships ….make it a goal worth aiming for.