As we finish one year and head into the next, I thought it would be appropriate to recognize some of the key mentors I have had that have shaped my career. So, this 4-part series focuses on those who have helped me along. A big thank you to each and every one of them.
Steven Screen highlights the third blog in this series.
I met Steven at The Domain Group. Steven was the new, young hot-shot account executive at the agency. Steven and I became friends and would often have lunch in downtown Seattle to talk about our shared dream of running our own businesses one day.
I started Analytical One in 2002 and shortly thereafter, Steven started his agency, which was named Uber Direct. Steven and I would collaborate often, sharing our clients and even splitting an office in Seattle for a while. It was great having another person running a start-up to bounce ideas off of.
Steven often talked about “finding the third way.” Too often, Steven would say, when we run into a problem in business, we limit ourselves to two solutions. Usually being, “do we” or “don’t we.” But Steven always challenged me to think of a third alternate solution. This is great advice I still employ today anytime I am dealing with a sticky issue, because often the third way is the best way.
Steven is someone I still seek out to think through ideas. He is a creative thinker whose ideas I greatly value.
Today, Steven and Jim Shapiro operate Better Fundraising Company in Seattle.
I so appreciate Steven and having another person to share the entrepreneurial journey.
