Robert Merrill over at Be Useful just posted some great stuff. He took me up on my challenge to define who he isn't and what he doesn't stand for.
He's got some great stuff and you should check it out. Here are some samples.
"If you can't fix it, feature it." - Gerald Weinberg, Secrets of Consulting
Robert isn't competitive or assertive. He doesn't like telling people what to do, he doesn't make a great first impression and he doesn't handle stress well.
But, like any good freak, his weaknesses are clues to his strengths. For example, because he doesn't make a good first impression, he is "persistent in relationships and doesn't jump to conclusions." Those sounds like strong qualities.
His post closes with these lines, addressed to potential consulting clients.
"If you invite me into the executive circle of your software-intensive business, you will probably find that I am different from most of you. That’s precisely why I will be useful."
I admire Robert for having the awareness to identify who he isn't and what he doesn't stand for. I admire him even more for the courage it took to share his apparent flaws with everyone, including potential customers.
He is different and that is precisely why he will be useful. Your differences are also what make you useful. If you can't fix it, feature it.
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