Knowing Your Value Proposition

In the corporate world we hear a lot of "corp-speak" like "paradigm shift" and "synergy", one of the ones I hear quite a lot, and that we at Mitel use quite often is "value proposition". But, I think that in using a phrase over and over we often devalue it's meaning, particularly in its broader application.

As a Mitel Systems Engineer I could go on for hours about the Value Proposition that Mitel brings to the table: a single-minded focus on Unified Communications, a broad application portfolio, cutting edge features, corporate partnerships, the Wesley-Clover family of companies, NetSolutions, our innovative Managed Services approach, our global reach, etc. etc. In fact, in future posts I surely will drive deeply into these areas. But, today I would rather focus on the personal Value Proposition. I really think it is vitally important that we each understand our own Value Proposition.

One of my mentors at Mitel challenged us recently, in every meeting we attend or event in which we participate he suggested we consider this question: what value do I add to this event? How can I add value to this discussion, this customer's situation, this sales meeting, etc. In thinking further on how to apply this bit of wisdom it occurred to me that this was something that I could use all the time, in every day life in virtually all aspects of it too!

Think about it! How much improved would your relationships, work life, home life etc. be if you went into every event with that idea in mind? What Value do I add to my marriage? What Value do I add to my children when I see them today? What Value do I add to my church, my community, my relationship with my friends? Now imagine that your spouse, or children or church or community leaders, your children's teachers, were asking that same question every day? How much improved would all those areas of our lives be if we simply asked that question all day, every day: what Value am I adding right now; what's MY Value Proposition?

Now remember this is not "what is my overall Value". Asking the question only in the broadest sense, while helpful, doesn't bring the same immediacy, the same impact to the answer. Of course you add value to your spouse in the long run or you would not still be married! Certainly you add value to your children, after all they're fed and clothed, right? But, what is the specific value you add RIGHT NOW, in THIS moment for THIS event, relationship, etc.?

Perhaps (I think certainly) approaching every interaction you have throughout your day with this same question, what's my Value Proposition, can help you become a better salesperson, systems engineer, wife or husband, father or mother, or friend. And just imagine if everyone you encountered had that same equation running through their mind...

So, as I was challenged I challenge you. As you move forward through your day-to-day keep always in the front of your mind that question, and answer it freshly for every interaction you have. Before you ask another to forward your success, ask how you can contribute to theirs. Know your Value Proposition.