Patrick James was devastated when he was called into the office of the small human resources firm he was employed and was informed they were going to have to let him go. Unexpected financial problems forced the owners to severely downsize the staff thereby eliminating his job. Patrick had saved a small amount of money for an emergency such as this but it was imperative that he find other work as soon as he could. He immediately started a new job search by updating his resume and sending it out to every business in town that he might have a chance of being hired to work for. In the meantime, he went through the process of creating a spreadsheet with alternative ways to make and save the money and resources he had available to him. When three months passed with no prospective job offers, he knew he was in trouble. He had purchased a home the previous year and was struggling to make monthly payments even before he lost his job, now he was certainly going to have to take some action to alleviate the pressure he felt. He knew the Cleveland real estate market was not exactly thriving but he knew he would have to take his chances at selling his house. He contacted three Cleveland realtors and set up an appointment with each one so he could determine who would suit his needs the best. He found himself drawn to the one that promised to promote his house assertively to appeal to every possible buyer.
When choosing a person who will represent you in a business transaction, it is essential to have a certain amount of trust and confidence in their abilities. It also is helpful that the level of communication with this person be smooth and direct so that interactions are productive and never stressful. In the above illustration, Patrick was going to have to put his largest asset in the hands of the gentleman he hired to represent him in the sale of his house. Other examples where it is important to have a good working relationship could be:
• Attorney – Experiencing distressing situations such as a divorce or a bankruptcy are extremely difficult but having an attorney who is trustworthy and who communicates can be very comforting.
• Funeral home director – Losing a loved one is a terrible burden to bear but having a kind and understanding person assist you at this devastating time in your life is tremendously comforting.
• Financial advisor – Trusting a person who gives you financial advice is enormously necessary for your state of mind. This is a person with whom you will share personal financial information and have confidence that he will direct you in ways to maintain and increase your wealth.
• Physician – This is a unique association because it is a combination of professional and personal. Presenting yourself as you truly are and discussing illnesses and lifestyle changes calls for a great amount of trust. It is also important that you have faith in the abilities of this person who might have to help you through serious illnesses.
