inspire me!

Inspire: to spur on, impel, motivate.  Inspiration: the action or power of moving the intellect or emotions - influencing…

Without a doubt every client or opportunity I consider has to inspire me and the vehicle of this inspiration can only be found in the CEO (at my role/level).  It seems absurd to have to remind people that inspiration is a key leadership quality!  The ability to inspire people to achieve great heights of performance is mandatory for running a small tech company. Passion, purpose, listening and meaning help make leaders inspirational and in turn will get me (the rest of the staff, investors, vendors, etc.) to do about anything for the success of the venture.

seems straight forward … what’s with the emphasis on inspiration today?

I’ve been very fortunate to work with some great CEO’s that inspire me but recently I was approached by an opportunity in which the client wanted me to help (a) raise money and (b) then become their part-time CFO.  The idea is interesting and the work would be standard issue but there was something holding me back.  And that something was a lack of inspiration.  If the CEO doesn’t have passion how can I get them funded?  That is the first thing an investor looks for.  Also, when you are completely putting in sweat equity inspiration is the only real currency that gets you to show up every day!  Why should I work my ass off for someone that is lukewarm on their own idea!?!?

Sure there are loads of management books that I could refer to here to support this thesis but it’s something you already inherently know.  Think of this as a reminder.

This CEO is courting some incredible talent in this city to build out her new venture and I’m willing to bet money they will all turn her down because of this lack of inspiration.  I have every intention of telling her that’s why I’m turning it down.  It’s a shame but it’s a lesson that must be learned.