Perhaps a small thing but the cashier in M&S commented on how much she also liked a juice I was buying today. I realised in that moment the difference it makes being sold something by someone who has passion for the product.

I have repeatedly told clients that they should ensure the work they do involves something they enjoy, are good at and have passion for. In this context passion isn’t just about liking the product or service but being passionate about the difference it makes and being even more passionate about why the difference matters. I usually ask "what do you get on your soap box about?"

The other week I realised that whilst I’m good and enjoy helping people get on track and truly believe we should all get out of bed with enthusiasm for the day ahead I don’t get on my soap box and get angry if you don’t.

So I wondered what I did get on my soap box about – of course others could tell me – purchasing and business behaviours! After all I’ve worked in business within Purchasing/Procurement since I left uni! More and more I can be repeatedly heard saying we need more authenticity, integrity, trust and honesty in business. Because this truly does connect with my passion this purpose provides the motivation every day to want to make a difference.

So having had a dual personality for the last four years and having spent energy trying to keep my 2 halves (Purchasing and Personal development) separate I realise it’s time to be authentic in all that I do and bring the two together. So from now on I will be concentrating my efforts on Transforming Purchasing Relationships – those with yourself, as a team and with suppliers.

I’m sure my observations in blogs will continue to be varied but I’ll be as interested as you to see how they change now I’m no longer schizophrenic!

What do you get on your soap box about? And how can this inspire you every day to make the changes you want to see in the world?

Alison Smith Transforming Purchasing Relationships 07770 538159 alison@alisonsmith.eu