In my first week of managing a consulting firm, a friend mentioned an organization seeking consultants. We asked for details, did research, and found a project of interest and compatibility:
Design and direct three weeks of high-interaction, non-controversial, team-building / adventure activities and peace programs for prominent, hand-selected leaders, speaking 31 primary languages, from 154 countries.

The client was the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games, and having worked with the Games previously, I was determined to be a part of it again. Before ever applying, we designed and mailed a survey to past Olympic participants, analyzed response data, sent the results summary to the Committee, and waited. A week later they told us we caught their attention and wanted to see our proposal.

We needed an impressive deliverable that could be communicated easily to a global audience. It took two weeks of brainstorming, planning, experimenting, and starting all over again, before the ideas came together that formed our unique proposal, which led us to being awarded three projects.

The experience was amazing, and far more influential than imagined. Yes, it raised the bar at the firm and secured us exceptional new clients, yet it also changed my career direction, led to overseas study, initiated remarkable new relationships, and inspired the creation of a philanthropic organization (another story). And, it all began with a friend who mentioned an opportunity.

In that moment, we created a list to consider when seeking and responding to future opportunities.

1) Be open to the idea that… in every moment is an opportunity.

2) Look, listen, and invite opportunity into your work, and life.

3) Ask questions, such as, is it
– a reflection of who we are and what we value?
– a challenge that could help stretch us to think beyond ourselves and grow?
– centered on a simple powerful idea that is inspiring and easy to communicate?
– a chance to set ourselves apart that provides value to us and others?

4) If “yes”, build momentum and invest yourself.

5) Learn and benefit, no matter the outcome.

Opportunity is a journey; therefore, consider that everything you learn and gain is only the beginning. The greatest value of an opportunity is where it next takes you.

– – – – – – –

Visit the article on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/responding-opportunity-patrick-schoof