I have some friends who produce and host a TV show. They call me when a planned guest cancels and they need a replacement on short notice. (And no, the show is not Cops.)
There is a teacher in my kids’ school district who has me on speed dial when they need a last-minute classroom speaker. Even though my kids are not in their class and I can’t barter favors for grades.
I was once asked if I could speak for 15 minutes to a company meeting of 1,000 people, just an hour before I was supposed to be on stage. I had nothing prepared. But I did it anyway. I figured that even if I crashed and burned, it would make for a good story. But if I crushed it, I imagined there was an outside chance that I would earn a lifetime supply of ham.
Recently, a woman who has hired me 3 times to speak recommended me to a colleague who had a speaker cancel a week before her big event. I had never given a talk on the topic they were looking for. (But I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express.)
And over the course of my advertising career, I have had too many last-minute requests from clients for even Count Dracula to count.
Be At The Top Of The Go-To List.
I step up and say yes to last-minute requests all the time.
Because I am a problem solver.
Because, like a firefighter, I can be ready for action on short notice.
Because I am prepared.
Because I stay ready.
Because I figure it out.
I have a process that allows me to deliver on short notice. Or nearly no notice.
Being the go-to backup plan when things go wrong is an honor.
People don’t forget those who helped them out when they were in a tight spot.
Throughout your life, you will have many opportunities to save the day.
Save it for others whenever you can.
Plus, more repetitions make you better at what you do.
So you improve through the process, too.
It bolsters your brand reputation.
And I have heard there are better accommodations in Heaven for those who help others here.
Key Takeaway
Be at the top of other people’s last-minute list. Save the day whenever you can. Be the person others turn to when they really need help. You will always help yourself in the process.
*If you know someone who could benefit from this message, please share it with them.
+For more of the best life lessons I have learned check out my book, What Does Your Fortune Cookie Say? from Ripples Media. And consider subscribing to Adam’s Good Newsletter.
Adam Albrecht Blog 