When you take a look at Brian Taylor’s career, there are some wonderful life and business lessons for us to remember. Reading the cover story this month you may notice a pattern by those interviewed. Words often used to describe Brian are fun, smart, caring, curious, Chris Kelly, and fun. I mention fun twice, because in Brian’s mind if it isn’t fun, why do it?
Let’s start with “smart.” While it’s hard to admit publically how smart Brian is, unfortunately it’s true. Brian is constantly learning and pushing himself at everything he does. He was the first person in our office with an iPhone, then an iPad. I bet he’s already ordered the iWatch. The message here is, long to learn, and better yourself every day. As distribution rep, you have hundreds of things you must know and learn. Brian is “smart” because he always strived to learn more.
“Caring and curious.” Another Medical Distribution Hall of Famer, Scott Fanning, often says: “No will care how much you know until they know how much you care.” Brian walks into our office, and as soon as he gets here, strikes up conversations with everyone. Not about work, but about them. He ask questions, and more importantly, listens to the answers. By being curious and caring, he knows what is important to each person. The people in this office are just like the people in your practices. Be caring and curious.
“Chris Kelly.” As you read the cover story, you may start to think it is as much about Chris as it is Brian. You would be right. Brian’s ability to see talent and put it in the right place has always been fun to watch. I mean heck, he hired me, right? Seriously, the partnership between BT and CK is why Repertoire exists today. Brian was never afraid to hire the right people, partner with them, and let them grow. I am thankful for the business that Chris and Brian started, and I am thankful for both of them. As Billy Harris always says “Hire smart or manage hard.”
We close with “fun.” Brian has enjoyed a fun, fulfilling career. He has influenced many lives along the way. Anyone that knows him would mention fun or funny when describing him. By making things fun – even the hard things – Brian has created a legacy at MDSI, but more importantly a career of classic memories and success stories. What your customers do in healthcare isn’t always fun, but every time they see you it can be.
“People buy from people they like,” the saying goes. Make it fun and watch your relationships grow.
Dedicated to Distribution
Scott Adams
PS: “Repertoire Prime” is coming….