Encounter with a Star Wars Storm Trooper
Written by: Brian Russell
Seven months, 215 days, or over 5,000 hours ago, I had the opportunity to launch the Boise practice of Apex Performance Solutions. As I look back I think; “Wow – what an adventure”. From the first contact with Dannea at the Chamber of Commerce to meeting a Star Wars character (more about that later…), it has been quite the ride.
Starting a practice from the ground up is daunting. I usually approach challenges in a methodical manner – often answering who, what, when, where and how to develop an approach. How to make the Apex name and brand more well-known with decision makers? What connections to make with business and community organizations? Who are the companies that make good clients?
Allow me to reminisce for a few moments about some of my favorite experiences.
Roaming the Boise foothills at 6 AM on a warm August morning; it doesn’t get much better than that. As part of the introduction of Apex to Idaho, I spent the morning with my son being recorded for my Apex introduction video. Exploring the trails and of course watching out for snakes is a great way to wake up.
Oh, the first client meeting! Through the good fortune of a friend at one of the big tech companies in Boise, I got a meeting with a few of that company’s IT managers. Telling the story of Apex – our history, what we do and how we add value was a great way to meet some new friends and hopefully establish a future client.
The most recent event where I presented Apex to the Idaho community was at the Business and Technology Expo. Because this is a premier event for creating business to business relationships, I was excited to showcase Apex and introduce Apex’s owner, Kurt Frohlich, to the community. Sharing knowledge is also one of the tenets for the Expo and I was given a speaking slot to do so. Sharing change management best practices with others was intriguing, if not a bit nerve-wracking. Participants raised good questions and it was nice to meet other business people who struggle with similar challenges.
So now how does Star Wars fit into all this? At the second day of the Expo, a Star Wars Imperial Storm Trooper was seen roaming the Expo floor. Naturally, having grown up with Star Wars, a chance to get a photo with a Trooper was a must do for yours truly.
Looking forward to next year’s Expo – - maybe I’ll meet Chuck Norris!? One can hope.
Brian Russell - Business Development Manager, Idaho
2 Responses
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Robbie Lane
Well, since I was said Storm Trooper, I can tell you right now I am unworthy of trying to be Chuck Norris, but next year I might try Darth Vader, the costume is 20 times more comfortable
It was an honor to hang out with you at the Biz ExpoRobbie Lane, Money Concepts Financial Planning Centre
February 21, 20128:30 pm
I’m proud of you Brian and your company! You have come a long way for such a short amount of time! Love your blog and fun photos! Glad to have you a part of the League!
February 21, 20128:08 pm