I was working on a project a few weeks ago when I overheard a colleague: “No one wants to get on the Titanic.”
It was an interesting thing to say. And, I couldn’t get its relevance out of my head.
You’re familiar with this iconic ocean liner’s story. Knowing the fate, do you think you’d get on it? Probably not.
But what about the notoriety of being a part of a maiden voyage? Or experiencing luxury accommodations unlike anything else on the market?
It’s still a sinking ship.
Experience shapes decision. It really doesn’t matter if it’s the firsthand knowledge kind or outsider input.
You, your customers, and your employees all have this in common. You make choices toward a positive outcome – and try your best to steer clear of anything else. And if you aren’t looking ahead (or around), it’s pretty hard to avoid the bad altogether.
Think with me for a minute:

1. Frustrated with a vendor not supporting you in the ways you’d like? How often and in what ways are you communicating? No one wants to be in a one-way partnership.
2. One of your best techs quit and you’re having trouble filling the void? When was the last time you had one-on-one reviews with the rest of your team? No one wants to refer their hardworking friends if they themselves are unhappy.
3. Scheduled a meeting or company outing and not everyone attended? Did you ask for opinions or help beforehand?  No one wants to participate in a culture that doesn’t align.
4. Lost a new customer that Google sent to the competitor next door? Have you checked your online reviews and rankings lately? No one wants to buy from a business they can’t easily find or learn about.

No one wants to get on the Titanic because you know how it ends. Even for the most imperfect of companies, though, I argue that it’s not over. Your business’ biggest challenge doesn’t define its future – unless you allow it to take you down.
photo credit: © rdnzl/Dollar Photo Club

You’re familiar with the Titanic’s story, but as our Director of Customer Experience shares this week, it can be looked at as far more than a lesson about a sinking ship. Like what she has to say? Share with her directly or comment below!