10 Leadership Lessons From A Panhandler

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I pulled up to the stoplight as usual and there he was… that he that I’m referring to was the panhandler!  There is a different panhandler at this intersection every morning; however it was something about this panhandler that took me to school.  In other-words this panhandler began to pan out some really valuable leadership/life lessons. 

 Here are 10 Leadership Lessons From a Panhandler that I learned during a 2 minute stoplight: (He’s not the one pictured in this post)

1. You never get a second chance to make a first impression (Why should I give to you right now)  Make your first impressions count.
2. Your message needs to be clear and concise (Hungry, Broke, Homeless…)  Cast a clear vision, have a clear direction.
3. Respect your clients (Don’t be over bearing)  Know, respect, and appreciate your customers and followers.
4. Persistence Pays (Don’t be to proud to beg and ask… and beg and ask)  If you don’t succeed at first, get a bigger hammer.
5. Make eye contact (When you look someone in the eyes, you might just see their heart)  Non-verbal communication is verbal.
6. Location and Timing (Location and timing are critical, good intersection and during a stoplight)  Know when to hold em’, when to…
7. People follow those with a following (Once one person gives, so will others)  The best way to get people to follow, is to get people to follow.
8. Be Genuine (People can read a phony from a mile away… or even a stoplight away)  Truly care about what your people & the mission.
9. Dress for Success (Look the part, dress the part… attire/look does matter)  The appearance of success is the on-ramp to success.
10. Be Appreciative and Thank God (“Hungry anything will help, God Bless”)  You have what you have because God allowed you to!  Thank God!

Share your thoughts on this post?  What Leadership Lessons have you learned from unlikely places?