Editor's note: Most consultants are in the business to make a difference. Whether the field is retail merchandising, environmental engineering or sales and marketing, consultants like to matter. If you're doing the right thing, you'll receive numerous thank you letters from clients. First of all, save them, frame them, enjoy them. They will see you through hard times when you wonder why you're in business.
Second, when a client thanks you, return the favor, and let them know how much you appreciate them. This is also a time to underline your values and commitment to them. Brent is a physician specializing in paliative [end of life] care for elderly patients. The "Friends" group was a support network for career changers.
From: Brent Savage
Sent: August 19, 20— 5:06 AM
To:
wsfrank@careerlab.com
Subject: Good morning!
Hello Bill,
I've been called in to Hospice Care Network for Monday, which is unusual, because they had 20 plus admissions over the weekend and will need some physician home visits. Please give my regards to the Friends group, which I hope to rejoin shortly.
While I am thinking about it, please know that your influence on my professional development has been profound. From the Birkman through the three-day visit, on to the two-page resume, friends group and especially networking, my professional self concept is becoming completely transformed.
I've been touched by the number of people who are looking out for me, and am beginning to realize that my own reciprocation to them and to myself makes for a much deeper, soulful approach to my work than I ever realized was possible.
After all, we are all coping and sometimes struggling with similar issues of the meaning of work in our lives, living in this world we inhabit, and our own aging and hopefully mellowing processes. I think that the CareerLab approach to all of this has its roots in a deeper, existential view of work and its meaning. I just want you to know that I appreciate your creativity and persevering efforts.
Brent
Brent,
This is a very kind note, and I appreciate it a lot. You're right, there is something deeper here than just "work." I do take a spiritual approach to career planning, namely: "There's a right place for everyone," and my job is to help others find their "right place." 99.9% of the time, we're successful.
You're doing really well, and I'm very proud of you. You've accomplished a lot in the brief time I've known you.
Talk soon,
:Bill