I prefer conditions to be perfect. As a matter of fact, the more perfect the conditions, the happier I am.
I strive to control my environment, I want things to be just right.
“Make sure the interview room is 73 degrees, exactly and I like the lights at an 87-degree angle to get a proper shine on my face.”
Got work to do? Make sure:
- The language is exquisite and approved.
- Everyone knows the deal and has given feedback and permission.
- Post it at only the best time to post.
- The reporter is prepared. And I’m prepared.
- The social media trolls are sleeping.
- The news cycle is favorable.
Nah, screw all that – Don’t Wait. Prepare your environment as much as possible but Don’t Wait. Do it. Enter the info space. Do the interview. Answer the RTQ. Tweet. Be bold. Do your job.
I take measured and deliberate risk. I do quick video interviews with little preparation from my phone. I am able to answer reporters’ questions pretty quickly with confidence. I do on-the-street interviews. When I’m home, I talk to reporters during my kid’s soccer practice. I tweet when the time is right.
I’m aligned with my command and I act, unafraid. You can too.
If you wait for everything to be perfect, it will never be and you’ll never do the deed. You will miss the opportunity to be right.
You don’t need more permission or another meeting. Your bosses will get used to you acting responsibly. You’ll get used to taking action.
We simply don’t have time to wait. If you’re waiting for things to be perfect, see you later cause I’m on the information bus.
Your results will be better because you acted even when things aren’t set up perfectly, even if you make a mistake.
Now go and do likewise.
Photo by Cpl. Emmanuel Necoechea
