4 years ago I had one of those conversations that you never forget that ended with a guy threatening me with a lawsuit. Today, I had lunch with him. Following lunch we had a successful joint sales call in which I believe we secured a big project. I have not spoken to this guy, or anyone related to his company since the memorable conversation 4 years past. He didn't even remember it, supposedly. Towards the end of lunch this past event came up, we re-hashed the scenario, and were able to put it behind us and even laugh.
For the past 4 years I would have only spoken negative things about this company if it came up. It's even a random set of events that landed us at lunch together today in the first place. I don't know if I'll ever do business with this company or not, but I learned that they are actually decent people. What happened in the past definitely happened, and for a certain reason, and played a role in shaping the market that it directly affects..............but can be put behind us to entertain opportunities going forward.
For sure there are other bias' that I hold due to events that occurred long ago, that because of, it's unlikely that I will ever initiate future business opportunities with again. How many opportunites will I miss because of this? Approaching these companies is not a reasonable plan of attack that can be initiated. But, an open mind is something that I can work on improving, so that if an opportunity arises, I'm not so quick to dismiss the idea and close the door. Listen, look, have an unbiased person evaluate..........and make a new decision. This time it may lead to something positive.
** The guy that I met for lunch today (in California) said he was worried that the lunch spot he chose might be too trendy, since I'm from Texas. Funny...........
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