How To Know A Good Opportunity When You See One

As leaders, one of the things we all hope to have is options.  Options provide the following:

1. The sense of not being boxed in.
2. The ability to do what is best for your family.
3. The ability to say “No”.
4. Leverage during negotiations.
5. A growth track.
6. Perks.
7. Creative freedom.
8. Financial opportunity.

But how do you know how to select the best option when opportunity presents itself?

In the July 4th edition of Sporting News, Reid Spencer takes a look at three of NASCAR’s hottest free agents.  How these top performers are weighing their options provides a good template for all leaders who need to choose between good opportunities.

Carl Edwards 

• Potential For Success – Edwards wants to win a championship.  Therefore, he will likely choose to work for either his current owner, Jack Roush, or Joe Gibbs.  Leaders are driven by accomplishment.
• With Discretion – Be a professional.  Treat your perspective suitors with dignity and respect.  Edwards says, “The thing I’m going to do is keep working on it and working on it privately. I think that’s the best way for me.”

Clint Bowyer

• A Growing Organization – Bowyer would likely fit best with Roush Fenway which is sponsored by UPS which wants to challenge the FedEx sponsored vehicles.  Leaders should consider organizations poised for significant growth.

Juan Pablo Montoya 

• Relationships – Montoya will likely remain with Earnhardt Ganassi Racing because of his long-lasting relationship with owner Chip Ganassi.  Leaders are most effective when they trust and enjoy the people they are around. 

Success, Discretion, Growing Organizations, and Relationships.  Leaders, when you have options and are given the privilege of having to select the best opportunity, practice these four principles and you will likely make the best choice.

As a gift for all racing fans and people who love great crashes, check out Edwards’s 2009 wreck at Talladega.