The Answer Is?

I am going to do something different with this post. Share with you a short story that is based on a real-life business situation I have worked on with a customer. Because my customers are confidential I am changing the name, product and value, but the situation remains very real for many entrepreneurs-that of how "authentic" to be.

Brian is an artist whose gift is brought into the world as a glass blower. He started glass blowing 15 years ago after visiting a shop while on vacation with his family in Vermont. He found the skill of glass blowing challenging and intriguing so he located a place to take lessons near his home in Western Massachusetts and began mastering his techniques.

During college he discovered Druidism and began exploring the beliefs and practices of this spirituality. He studied, practiced and joined others in nature and druidism. Before beginning any piece he sets his intentions for the piece with a ritual. Here in lays his dilemma of whether to express his authenticity to his customers.

Brian's business is 3 years old and he has moved his art from a part-time business to full-time. He currently markets his work through various art and local exhibits and events, at a few local shops and via his website. He has a growing customer base and is developing a small following who enjoy his creations. The majority of his customers are women with a medium disposable income.

Brian's work sells itself, but he wants to connect more with his customers and tell the story behind the creation. Brian has been hesitant to really open up with his ritual and how he blends his beliefs and practices into his creations.

My question for you is whether you think he should be forthcoming or not. What do you think? How authentic should he be? Is there a risk?

I want to thank the folks that contacted me about the last post, I'm glad you're going to read the book.

Image by Cheryl A. Smith