First off, I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year! I also trust that during this time of year you will take a moment to reflect on the reason for the season. Christmas is that one time of year where we tend to stop and savor the things around us and, yes, no matter who you are, you’re fortunate and blessed. We should all be thankful for what we have and the friends and family we are able to associate with. May everyone have a great Christmas and remember He is the reason for the season.
I don’t hesitate to share with you my regards towards Christmas and I feel strongly it’s part of being a leader in sales. I have a number of friends who are either Jewish, Muslim, or nothing at all. That’s fine and I wish them the best. But, if I’ve exhibited the type of leadership I should as a salesperson, then they would expect me to wish them “Merry Christmas.” If they know me at all, they won’t be offended by it any more than I would be by them sharing with me their thoughts regarding being Jewish, Muslim, or whatever. In our quest to be politically neutral, we’ve lost the art of communicating and accepting.
Leaders don’t hide behind unspoken words, nor do they run from those who may say something they may not want to hear. True leaders express their views in a way that avoids conflict and they expect others to do the same. I would be hurt if a Jewish friend of mine didn’t share with me their feelings regarding their faith. In fact, I would think of them less favorably if they didn’t share it with me. The reason is simple: If they don’t share with me their feelings about their faith, I would think their faith doesn’t mean much to them.
The business world is crying out for true leaders. In the year to come, let’s all work to become better sales leaders by not allowing ourselves to be swayed by every single idea and opinion. Rather, let us lead through our knowledge, beliefs, conviction, and passion to serve others regardless if their beliefs in politics, faith, or whatever doesn’t match ours.
Merry Christmas!
