It's a fact business is down for most of us, and surely many are thinking of ways to gain a competitive edge. Think about it, why are you running behind or how did you get where you are if you are always leading the pack? After giving it some thought lately, this blogger has come to the conclusion that gaining and maintaining a competitive edge is easier than some think. At the risk of restating the obvious, here are two ideas (of many scattered and random thoughts) on the subject:

 Rule 1: Show up and show up on time! It's surprising but many out there have decided that the rules of common courtesy have been suspended. Many agents that regularly refer me business have told me that one of the reasons they do is that I show up and I show up on time. It's hard to express how astonished I was the first few times I heard this, "What? You mean you have people that work with you that don't show up?" It is hard to imagine that there are people out there losing business everyday simply because they don't keep appointments or because they are always late for them. WARNING:If you are not punctual, you are losing business!

 Rule 2: Show a Little Enthusiasm! Smile! Be upbeat! Have a "can do" attitude. You don't have to go overboard or assume the phoney, baloney persona of a high pressure sales person. You don't have to morph into a new personality and try hyping up everyone around you. Just be your better self: relax, assume an open posture, listen to your clients. Most folks are aware that there are some bad things going on in the world, they don't need you to remind them! If you want to make everyone run away from you, start every conversation by being negative and complaining about the weather, the traffic, your spouse, your kids, etc. If you want to attract more business, quit talking down and start talking up.We have all heard it a million times, "enthusiasm is contagious", so let some enthusiasm infect you and animate your being!  

In this humble writer's opinion, the two thoughts outlined above mark a dividing line between winners and "also rans". Punctuality and enthusiasm are habits that can be easily developed. If you want to be ahead of the game on a consistent basis start by showing up on time and showing a little enthusiasm when you do!