The Importance of Working Towards and Leaving an Everlasting Legacy (in Business)

The Power of Leaving a Legacy (Professional Services & Business Consultancy)

For me, leaving a legacy means bringing about a lasting positive change that benefits business owners, their employees, and has the same long term positive effect on their customers and key stakeholders.

Two famous Quotes that have inspired me:

Mother Teresa: "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love."

Nelson Mandela: "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."

Creating and leaving a legacy is crucial in the professional services industry, particularly when introducing change through consultancy packages.

Innovation and Problem-Solving: Albert Einstein, focused on innovation and problem-solving, which left a legacy through his ground breaking theories that revolutionised science. His work continues to influence scientific research and technological advancements even today.

In professional services, creating and providing innovative solutions through consultancy packages should always aim to transform businesses for the sustainable long term.

Long-Term Focus: If you offer professional services and consultancy, please focus on the long term and always do what's right to grow your client's company. Avoid making short-term decisions, as they are just transactional and may not address the root cause of your clients concerns or issues. (sticking plasters)

Continuous Learning: Embed continuous learning in your practice. Stay curious and continuously learn throughout your career. This will instil positive change in individuals, your team, your clients and will create a lasting legacy.

Personal and Organisational Impact: I believe that, those who have worked alongside me, been my direct reports in the past, or clients over the last 10 years or so, have benefited positively from our interactions and work. While I may not have a robust measure, the positive feedback and referrals I receive from clients speak volumes.

Leadership and Advocacy: Martin Luther King Jr. was a pioneer of leadership and advocacy in the Civil Rights Movement. Similarly, consultants today should always advocate for positive change within organisations, along with delivering ethical practices and in doing so, having integrity which is paramount when introducing change.

Why leaving a legacy is important for individuals and organisations you work with and support.

1. Personal Fulfilment: Sharing and introducing change, observing improved behaviours, and witnessing positive demeanours bring personal satisfaction and reward for me.
2. Organisational Impact: The positive effects of delivering tailored consultancy work-packages on company culture and long-term sustainability lead to improved customer satisfaction and financial performance.  Focus on the people, and support them to improve their way of working and interaction with others,  not just financial drivers, to make the biggest impact and difference.
3. Building Client Relationships: Building trust and loyalty among clients enhances your legacy. Clients who value your services are likely to refer others, and become advocates for your business.

Creating a Legacy: In 3 simple steps!

1. Vision, Mission, and Values: Establish a clear vision, mission, and core values.
2. Mentorship and Leadership: Invest time in the growth of others. Pro-bono work often yields significant returns for both parties.
3. Innovation and Excellence: Strive for continuous improvement and innovation for yourself and others.

How will you be remembered?

Steve Jobs' legacy in transforming technology and design continues to influence the industry.

Practical Steps to Consider:

• Goal Setting: Set long-term goals aligned with your legacy goal.
• Daily Actions: Incorporate legacy-building actions into your daily routines.
• Reflection and Adaptation: Regularly reflect on progress and adapt strategies.

For me, this involves going for walks after client sessions, to mull over ideas and outcomes, reflecting on my own behaviours, and redefining the next steps. (plus drafting and sharing the odd blog on my website)

So, start thinking about your own legacy and take actionable steps today.

"Legacy is not leaving something for people. It's leaving something in people." - Peter Strople

If this blog resonates with you and you wish to catch up and have a chat over a coffee, please reach out.

Peter

Peter Fleming

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