When I was first starting out, I had the opportunity to be introduced to Adam Grant.
AG is one of the most well-known authors in the organizational-psychology field, and he’s also a professor at Wharton School of Business. I had been following him for many years, read most his work, and even applied his ideas to the way I approach business. I was a big fan to say the least.
One of my good friends was previously a student of his, and offered to connect us. It worked.
After getting introduced, Adam asked his colleague Karren to meet with me, since he was in the depths of writing a new book.
Later that week I joined a video call, and the first thing Karen said was, “Adam doesn’t usually meet with everyone, he only passes the few people he’s interested in to me, so congratulations.”
Which made me feel ecstatic, until she said, “So, what can Adam or I do for you?”
I had no answer.
Define What Matters
To be fair, I was just starting out and Critical-Chance was a complete experiment. I didn’t know what type of content I intended to build, or who I wanted to reach.
Regardless, Karen and I had a fantastic conversation, which I was grateful to have. At the same time, it taught me a very valuable lesson: Always know what you want.
We focus so much on landing the job interview, securing the sales call, or carving out the much needed time with family.
Yet we spend no time defining what we want, once we finally get it.
Be Ready
Regardless of the domain, you should always be prepared to answer the, “what can I do for you?” question.
Refine, evolve, simplify; but figure out your answer.
You may only be asked once.
…
So, what do you want?