I made a mistake this week.
I was introduced to a few dozen new people.
I attempted to correct the mistake.
I was introduced to more new people.
This mistake was a springboard instead of an anchor.
When you make a mistake, you learn who is listening.
You learn who is invested.
You learn what they want.
The positive ones want to help you and are in for the long haul.
The negative ones were never going to stick around anyway. No matter what you say or do, they’ll find fault.
Specific example: On Wednesday I e-mailed the wrong link to Steve’s e-mail list. The heads up emails started arriving immediately. I sent a correction e-mail. E-mails from almost a completely new set of individuals arrived.
They provided feedback, what they like/don’t like, their experiences with Steve’s work, the impact it has had on their own work, and so on. They provided value.
Whether you’re launching a book or a business, establishing a relationship with readers, customers, fans, etc., is important.
Of those relationships established with Steve and Black Irish Books, some of the greatest have come on the wings of mistakes.
I wouldn’t fake a mistake, but if one occurs, step up and address it, and then enjoy what follows. It’s extraordinary.