CHAPTER TWENTY NINE
The Ideal Business Person
Who is the ideal businessperson? What makes him or her stand out from the rest? The answer, as with all the other questions asked in this book is found in the Bible, in the last chapter of the book so full of wisdom Proverbs. I know the original text refers to a ‘virtuous wife’ but the principles are the same, and these are principles which we must all strive to adhere to.
Proverbs 31:10-31.
v10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
The word ‘virtuous’ means more than chastity, it means being worthy, dutiful, praiseworthy, capable and excellent. These are the attributes every businessperson should strive for not only in themselves but also in those they hire. Finding the right person is above value, nobody can place a price on somebody with these traits.
v11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
Your customers can trust you and your partners and shareholders know that you will do your best for the business. Their money and time will not be wasted.
v12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
As a businessperson, who will be honest in all your dealings.
v13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
Everything that such a person does is for the good of the business. You remain busy, seeking new ways to improve the business, not shirking your duties, applying yourself for the benefit of the business.
v14 She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
If necessary you will go out of your way for the business, seeking new opportunities, near and far, so that there shall always be growth.
v15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
Time is of no consequence, if the business needs you, you must be available. You know and understand your responsibilities, and do your work timeously.
v16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
Such a person is always on the lookout for opportunities and when the opportunity presents itself you do not act hurriedly but always with the reputation of the business in mind. Expansion, diligence, profit are the watchwords.
v17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
Knowing that mental alertness comes via physical well-being, you look after yourself, not only physically but also mentally and spiritually so that you remain healthy and capable of doing your work. Sickness costs money, is a liability and a setback to any enterprise.
v18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
Quality is the watchword, in service and product and you make sure that your merchandise is of a good standard and is acceptable to all. Any complaints are expeditiously dealt with, irrespective of hour, day or night.
v19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
If necessary, you will do the hard, physical work, to ensure success. No good businessperson limits themselves to one job. You must always be available to step in at a moment’s notice to help where you are needed.
v20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
The businessperson with vision has the community in mind. Longevity relies on living in harmony with the surrounding community and as businesspeople we must not forget our obligations to them and their needs.
v21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
The weather is not a factor, seasons come and go, but because of your diligence the business remains stable. Employees have their needs met as befitting their circumstances. What does it help if our employees are stealing the produce because they are dying of hunger?
v22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
The ultimate goal of any business is profit and it is for the businessperson to enjoy that profit. For your diligence and loyalty, you should be rewarded.
v23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
The reputation of the business is foremost on your thoughts and lips, without fear the business can be represented knowing that it is held in high esteem in the community and the business world.
v24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
There is no end to innovation, new products are tested and sold. The business is vibrant and alive, always on the lookout for new opportunities. The business remains on a good footing with other businesses.
v25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
The businessperson wears the reputation of the business for all to see and for their loyalty, the businessperson will be rewarded.
v26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
Wisdom and kindness are virtues to be sought by all businesspeople.
v27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
Idleness is not in your nature. You keep busy and willing. Laziness is a curse and must be avoided.
v28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
The business praises them, and rewards them.
v29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
You rise above expectations and the norm.
v30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
You see past appearances and outward display. Your strength is from the Lord.
v31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
Your work is your reputation, your life and your reward.