Saturday, November 6, 2010

The Value of Forward Movement

Margin managers can receive the benefits of positive momentum even in the early stages of an initiative.

I recently achieved a contract win with a new client in new market - the second in a span of a few months. While the response to the first win was decidedly muted, the second has created more waves. Both wins represent new footholds in markets where the company is trying to expand. The difference in the response is a growing sense of momentum.

While two wins hardly represent a trend, the progress is a noticeable improvement over previous periods. Even at this early stage, I can see the power of forward momentum start to emerge and the hard period of building networks, recruiting partners, and scouting opportunities is beginning to pay off. For example, this past week a company manager contacted me with a new business idea for the international market and an external partner approached me with a business opportunity. In the past, I have always had to sell new ideas to them.

As I continue the hard work of identifying and pursuing new opportunities, these more strategic efforts are adding depth and volume. The program is starting to mature. It is possible that I have passed the important milestone between the Test Phase and the Ramp-up Phase.