just time to leave.”
When he left Fidelity, Bob was number two at the company and Chief
Operating Officer.
We talked a long time about Fidelity. As well as I know Bob, I had never
explored this with him. “
What has been the happiest day in your life?”
That's what opened up a great deal of insight into his Fidelity experience.
It's very hard and at times stressful to be number two in a family business—
especially if there are members of the family on the staff you're supervising.
Akin to that, I'm reminded of a similar story.
Someone asked Christian Herter what it was like being the second in
command under John Foster Dulles, Secretary of State. “It's very hard being
number two in a one-person department.”
In my session with Bob, the question that produced the most substantial
response is, “
What has been the happiest day in your life?” Every time I ask
someone this question, the reaction is deeply revealing.
Keep in mind that what might be the happiest day for one person may not
necessarily be the most joyful for another.
President John Adams wrote in his journal one day: “I went fishing with
Charles. It was the worst day in my life.” His son, nine-year-old Charles,
wrote in his journal. “I went fishing today with father. It was the happiest
day in my life.”
Dig deep and learn something special about the other person. You will
also bring a smile to their face when you ask,
“What has been the
Dostları ilə paylaş: