Although this is only one of the five common definitions of the word “dedicate,” it is powerful and speaks volumes about an individual about which this is said: “to devote wholly and earnestly, as to some person or purpose.”

Synonyms include: devote, commit, pledge, allegiance, constancy, loyalty.

In business we hear about dedicated lines, dedicated funding, dedicated servers.

What I’ve noticed about people who are dedicated in their career is that they are tireless. That doesn’t mean they don’t drop at the end of the day, but they meet each day with enthusiasm, passion and a positive attitude. It’s contagious in any company. I find when I deal with these dedicated people on a project it’s a great pleasure. They bring me along on their ride of, “We can do this!” I believe it, and them, down to my toes. It’s sincere, unambiguous, constructive and infectious!

The 50 Most Influential in Sales Lead Management is about leaders – not necessarily company owners, COOs or upper management – but LEADERS who inspire us to be better; to challenge ourselves through their example.

In the late 80’s I worked for an advertising agency that encouraged us all to try on new hats, praised us for the hurdles we successfully attempted, and encouraged us even more when we cleared the hurdles of a new campaign. During this time I was tireless. OK, I was also a lot younger, but I always wanted to stay late, meet the deadline – by choice. I wanted to be a part of creating a solution for a client. I enjoyed the enthusiasm the partners brought to these late nights – they were right there with us, without a whip, guilt or threats – we were INVITED to participate.  I can’t think of any occasion that any of us turned down the opportunity, which is how we all viewed it – an opportunity. The group varied in ages and marital status – but we were equal in our enthusiasm. Families would sometimes bring dinner and kids in jammies. It contributed to our success. I will be forever grateful to have had those experiences to show me how it should be and what true leadership is.

leadership

About the Author: Susan Finch

Susan has been a web solutions provider since 1997 and combines it with her years of experience in Public Relations, Marketing and Advertising. In her own company, Susan Finch Solutions (http://www.susanfinch.com) Susan provides training, design, set up, strategies, and graphics for clients online and for print. Susan has been a director for the SLMA since 2008.