As I wandered through the stores, one character stood out. He did not fit the stereotype of a salesman. While the other sales personnel were focused on the potential customers in the small store, he was in his own world in a listening room. You could see him going through a routine that involved a setting up a unique configuration of speakers, sub-woofer, and amplifier followed by a favorite clip on a Blu-ray disk. As he listened, he appeared to make a few mental notes, and then moved to the next configuration.
There was no doubt where his attention was. As I came into room, he acknowledged my presence and went back to his routine. He was on a mission. It was amazing. I listened to great sound and then something that bordered awesome. I left wondering what he would be like if he saw me as a customer.
Two days later, I came back and he was the salesperson available for a conversation. I quickly realized that he was passionately knowledgeable. I had have never thought of passion and knowledge going together, but in his case it fit naturally.
His personal passion transcended loyalty to store and making a living. As I described the setting I was looking to for a solution, his response reflected expertise and a personal view. I understood that he was not trying to make my decision, however he did have a view.
Listening to a view, especially from a trusted advisor, makes a difference. The approach transcends products and services. When a wise man says, “I’ll tell you what I would do. Even though I’m not there in person, consider me right there with you, because I can fully see what’s going on. I’m telling you that this is wrong. You must not simply look the other way and hope it goes away on its own.” (1 Corinthians 5.3) I know it is good to listen.
You and I are accountable for the choices we make. Whatever we decide, hearing wisdom from those with experience is always a good idea.
