In defense of perfectionism

We often hear that the pursuit of perfection is a weakness and that it can never be achieved.  However, if there were no pursuit of perfection, there would be no Rolls-Royce automobiles.  One day, Sir Henry Royce was walking through his factory and overheard two workmen say, “That’s good enough.”  Sir Henry exploded and told them, “We will accept nothing that is nearly right or good enough!  Good enough is never good enough.”  Good enough will not produce a Rolls-Royce automobile.  Perfection was the obsession of Sir Henry.  Today, his auto would not be held in such high esteem if Sir Henry Royce had not had such a penchant for perfection.

You want to provide unparalleled results, exceptional service and advice for your clients.  Providing such service is beyond “good enough” and is the basis of establishing your brand.  This branding is the direct result of their experience in working with you as their advisor.  When it is unparalleled and has positive results, i.e. nearly perfect, your clients will be pleased to refer you to others and introduce you to their families, friends, and colleagues.  Perfection may not be attainable, but it is a strength is to be committed to excellence.  Excellence is remarkable and is a near perfect performance.  It is easily recognizable. The impression it makes will cause your clients to talk about their experience with you.  Clients like these become advocates for helping you build and expand your business.

Think about perfection with a new respect.  Don’t ever be satisfied with close or good enough.  Clients will notice that, too.  I’ll close today, with the admission that I belong in the ranks of perfectionists.