"Sure, I Can Do That!": The Danger in Over-Selling Your Capabilities
Chris Heiler | November 24th, 2009
Recently, I was hoping to update my existing blog's design with just a few small tweaks. This wasn't major programming work I needed, I just couldn't make these changes myself. I found a company online that specialized in exactly this. They advertised themselves as The experts that can fix the things you're not happy about in your blog design.This company seemed to be filling a much needed niche. I was even hopeful that we could potentially work together on an ongoing basis--kind of an online handyman. I emailed the company inquiring about their services and submitting my handful of project specifications. They replied promptly with, This won't be a problem at all...we'll get back to you soon with a price for the work. Two days later I received an email notifying me that their computer programmer could not handle these tasks for me nor would they be able to find another programmer to meet my time constraints. They sent me on my way with an apology. So, this company advertised their specialty to be exactly what I needed, yet they could not deliver what they advertised. I think you can see where I'm going with this: Do not over-sell your capabilities! I know, it's not always easy. Hell, I've done it! Here are a few instances in which I've seen landscape designers over-sell their capabilities--and maybe myself :-)
- Accepting projects that are too complex for our current skill level. I realize we need to challenge ourselves, but we need to understand where to draw the line. Don't over-sell your ability.
- Accepting projects that are too large in scope for us to manage effectively. I pushed to be the general contractor on a project I designed two years ago that cost nearly $1 million. I was going to handle it myself--I'm glad the university was smart enough to know better.
- Over-selling our ability to meet a deadline.
- Over-selling our ability to meet a budget.
Over-selling ourselves only leads to disappointment and stains our reputation. This stain will follow us everywhere. Going back to my original example; I'll never call on that company again nor will I ever refer them, obviously. Be honest and forthright; under-promise and over-deliver. I know, so cliche. Have you ever over-sold your capabilities? Did it get you in trouble? Care to share? You can share your experiences in the comments field below. On a final note, I hope all of you have a fantastic Thanksgiving with your families. Amy, Charlie and I will be heading out to Chicago to see the in-laws. We're having crab legs this year. Who has crab legs for Thanksgiving? I'm not complaining...
To Your Success,
Chris Heiler
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