Do you understand the rules (and the exceptions)? in construction marketing

At times, I shake my head about the impossible odds. I can’t share the exact probability numbers, but in this context, my status is like that of a major lottery winner, although there is some skill as well as luck in the success. In fact, I thought I was the only winner in the category, but thankfully had a few drinks in Mountain View with the one person in the world who shares my status — he?had flown in from Copenhagen to the international gathering.

Our status as formerly disabled Google AdSense publishers who became Top Contributors (moderators) on the AdSense Help Forum may not mean much to you, but in the AdSense community, it is truly astounding — because generally, if you receive the “Your account has been disabled” message, the disabling is a life-time experience. Very few disabled account holders return to the advertising revenue sharing program, and of course almost no one reaches the status to qualify for?expense-paid visits to the mother ship headquarters for international summit meetings.

We clearly exchanged notes about how we had managed to defy the odds, and while our stories are different, they share two common points. First, neither of us in any way needs the program for economic survival (some people stake their entire economic fortune on the revenue the program generates). And, secondly, we had gained enough understanding of the program’s rules and systems that we could break back into the program, and then (by sharing our insights with others) reached the point where we received the relatively rare “Top Contributor” invitation.

Obviously, it is unwise to stake your life and business plans on odds-defying projects and initiatives, but I think there is merit in understanding how you can bend the odds and, after some time, (and of course with some luck), break through to the “exceptional” category.

These seem to be the foundations:

• If you make a mistake, really understand it, accept the error, take responsibility, and solve the underlying problems;
• Truly understand the framework, rules, and systems under which you work, and the community where you work/serve;
• Be patient, you cannot necessarily control the timeframe for resolution;
• Don’t stake everything on the single dream — if you are playing the odds-defying game, your probability of a major loss is much greater if you don’t have other back-up and primary options;

and

• Capture the opportunities when they present themselves.

Why do this?

Let’s say, for example, that you overcome the probabilities and win a lucrative contract with a major and influential client — despite all the indicators saying: “This can never happen.” Once you win that contract, you achieve reputational strength because of your association with success, and you also obtain a powerful and rewarding network of relationships and associations which you can apply to enhance your business.

Besides these pragmatic advantages, there is some healthy ego-fuelling here. I wish I could cite the number, but cannot because of non-disclosure rules; but at times like to think of the Six Million Dollar Man as I contemplate further adventures.