I've interviewed Steve Kruskamp, E-Commerce Marketing Manager at 1st Mariner Bank, Baltimore, MD on BankTalkRadio twice. I love having Steve as a guest because his energy is contagious. He is vibrant and willing to initiate change.
When I asked Steve if he encounters resistance in his quest to be innovative, his answer was something like "of course," yet he moves forward while still "playing by the rules." He often hears "Steve, let's wait and see" when he suggests trying new things, yet he manages to move forward. Steve is an initiator; the brand he represents is stronger for it.
Seth Godin did a blog post a few days ago entitled The initiator that starts "I'm just here to learn" and concludes with the question "How often does your brand initiate rather than react?"
Learning is a great! Duplicating success is great! Following is mediocre.
Are you an initiator or always a follower? What is the real risk of being an initiator?
Follow a leader like Steve... take being an initiator out for a test drive!
