This majestic animal, roamed the world influencing culture, religion and human history like no other.
So, what do elephants have in common with the modern-day business?
What traits could we possibly glean from these enormous creatures?
Recognize Your Herd
According to Seaworld.org, “Elephants have excellent long-term memory and are capable of remembering experiences for long periods of time. Research has shown that elephants are able to recognize other herd members decades after they have last interacted with them.”
Customers are the life-blood of any business. It doesn’t matter whether you are selling physical products or performing a service, it is important to make each customer feel appreciated and valued. One way to achieve this is to build a relationship with your customers and make sure you are on a first-name basis with them.
Pick one experience or character trait of your customer and write it down by their name in your files so that the next time you see them you can blow them away by your memory of their particular circumstances.
Setting the Captive Free
Setting a captive elephant free brings great merit in most cultures.
Occasionally, in business we must set team members free. Most people believe letting go of an employee is terribly difficult and it is never easy. However, keeping someone on the payroll who feels imprisoned does not help you fulfill your destiny for your business and doesn’t honor the life of the employee...
Instincts Awakened
The elephant's unique foot structure enables secure movement over uneven terrain and swampy ground. Their unique heel pad allows them to stand on their tiptoes with their body weight evenly distributed.
It is no secret that owning a business has its fair-share of rough terrain, but it’s important to test new waters and persevere. Trying new things with the proper footing or foundation might be scary, but will be so worth the risk when you realize your dreams and goals for your business.
As a business owner, you have to step out of your comfort zone in order to grow. Follow your instincts and grand ideas and catapult your business to the next level.
“The very things that hold you down are going to lift you up.” Dumbo (1941)
Stay tuned next week for Part 2 of what we can learn from elephants...