A testimonial, or something akin to one at least…

I completed a business sitting gig in June 2021. I ‘sat’ the CEO position of a large GP practice. I had no prior experience in health, but someone I had worked with previously was involved with the organisation, and the CEO, which he had selected, was heading off on maternity leave. Not only did I find the gig through Simon but I benefitted enormously from his support and wisdom throughout. As the contract wound up I asked if he would write a reference or some insights that I could add to a case study about business sitting. He wrote the below. He apologised when he sent it, wondered if it was too personal to be a reference, too intangible to aid a case study. He may be right, but I appreciate it nonetheless.

‘Many people get away with good skill, or professional ability to make their work - that’s not special. And being exceptional good in a business segment (although laudable) is also not that special. Others manage to find a niche in a business that’s not so demanding and just by being normal and exercising integrity do well - again not that special.

Those that inhabit multiple business sectors and create value in them, and can pivot from one to another are special - and quite rare. I feel you are there. I think it’s a gifting, if you will accept it.

So I wonder what skills does this need/develop/bring? One you definitely have is the ability to create trust in those around you. This is special, as its inherent in your personality. This is something you achieve by being you and it underwrites all your work. It's uncommon.

It comes with speaking the truth, and you (vitally) empathise and listen at the same time - (otherwise its a normal blunt stick despite some praising it).

Then there is that sense of ‘why can’t we’ that comes across as playful and adventurous - but also very seriously, and underpinned by good commercial acumen. And, it’s trusted by others, as they feel your musing somehow as you do it on ‘what could be’ - you create this safe zone (although it’s a little unsafe and there is a twinkle in your eye).

You commit. (and there is no doubt in the value of that). You are also driven. This is essential and not something you will ‘get over’, nor should you. It's the mechanism that pushes you onwards.

Your values (IMHO) are…. Trust. Can we? Committed. Driven to achieve.

Finding the balance to give your soul the space needed will be challenging and very rewarding. And possibly the deeper challenge will be to accept you have to do this for yourself - it’s beyond normal, and lacking guides - its part of your ’special’ and is actually a gift.’

When I am in a position to provide a reference or feedback to someone I take a great deal of care with this responsibility, and I have had to navigate some particularly ‘delicate’ references, (which is a whole other article…). Not sure I have ever managed to share my thoughts quite so poetically as the above though. This has encouraged me to up my game. Thanks again, Simon.