For What of a Nail...

The proverb “For want of a nail” illustrates the consequences when the smallest part of a soldier’s gear has the potential to lose the entire kingdom. This story is usually used to show how even the smallest part of a team is essential to that team’s success. In addition, I think the story tells us more about the power of communication on a team, since it’s the message not being delivered that lost the battle which lost the kingdom.

There is a parallel in our business to that mythical soldier and his undelivered message; our daily note updates for the team. As we go through our days there are so many things that happen to affect the transactions and clients we have in our pipeline where having up to date information is crucial. Knowing when someone last spoke to a seller, or getting a crucial update from the title company can mean the difference between a closed deal and a dead deal.

Taking notes is not glamorous. There’s only one instance I can think of where note taking has been glorified in a movie, and it was done as a joke. However, there is nothing more critical than regular updates to the full functioning of a team or business. So make sure to block some time every day, to provide updates. Let’s build a Kingdom whose foundation is our successful and consistent communication with each other.

~Scott