Just (Don’t) Say No During COVID Disruptions

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Yes you can, motivational inspirational message concept written on the sand of beach

NO! It’s one of the first words we learn as children. And for most of us, it’s a word we regularly use as we grow older. In professional settings, “No” has the power to shut down strategic conversations with unfortunate effectiveness. Whether responding to a new idea that challenges the status quo or a suggestion that seems like a lot of work, “No” is the answer that will require the least amount of effort. At least in the short term.

What if, instead of responding with a quick “No,” we paused and said “Yes”—or more specifically, “Yes, if…”? This simple approach worked wonders for Walt Disney. The world-famous Disney empire was founded on Walt’s upbeat ability to sidestep the easy “No” and replace it with a more hopeful “Yes, if…” Even in the most challenging situations, Mr. Disney kept his focus on positive outcomes. When asked if Disneyland could be built, everyone else said, “No, because…” But Walt? He answered, “Yes, if…”

  • Yes, if  we get someone else to pay for it.
  • Yes, if  we hire the world’s best experts to build it.
  • Yes, if  we choose a location that’s warm all year long.
  • Yes, if  we get transport links.

We already know the “Yes, if…” approach worked for Disney’s dream, but could this technique also work for your credit union? Could you create a more positive future for your credit union by—well, I’ll let you finish that sentence. It could be investing in technology. It could be rebranding the credit union to make it more relevant to your ideal member. It could merely be investing the time required to conduct an in-depth strategic planning session that challenges you to consider all of the “what-ifs.”

What I’m describing may seem like a simple technique, but success doesn’t always have to be complicated. What worked for Walt Disney could work for you. You have the power to change the future of your credit union for the better by simply replacing “No” with “Yes, if…” But beware. Tossing “No” out the window and replacing it with “Yes, if…” will often lead to tough conversations and hard work. But don’t let that scare you off. Remember, winners do the work most others aren’t willing to do.

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Dexter Ochoa

Development Assistant

When it comes to blending logical thinking and creative problem solving, Dexter’s abilities are undeniable! Beginning his career as a Web Developer, he’s no stranger to the wide world of Marketing and Advertising. Calling Biñan City in the Philippines home, Dexter has a burning desire to visit the Alpine peaks and valleys of Switzerland. While that journey may be far off, he is still no stranger to international travel. While visiting Japan, he was able to enjoy his favorite delicacy: Sushi and Sashimi. He also learned unexpected facts about Japanese Yen, specifically that it has special markings for the blind to know its value!

Living life by his motto to “Do good even if the world is unfair,” Dexter would also advise his younger self, “It’s hard, but you’re doing good!” Whether he’s enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning or the occasional Pale Pilsen in the evening, Dexter is eager to work with the talented professionals of YMC, and we’re just as eager to add his talent to the team as well! His marketing words of wisdom? “Be creative, and just do what you want!”

Andrew Wyche

Copywriter

Hailing from the NC state capital (that’s Raleigh if you didn’t know), Andrew is YMC’s Copywriter extraordinaire. That’s why he knows that “The verb form of ‘reconnaissance’ is ‘reconnoiter.’ The former is, strictly speaking, a noun.” Seriously, he knows his words and he’ll use those words to get bold and weird (in a good way) with his copy. Fuelled by a love for pasta, shellfish, a good single malt, or a meal consisting of all three, Andrew navigates life with a motto engraved in his heart: “Choose kindness. Always.” It is this guiding principle that has led him to explore the realm of marketing, driven by a desire to connect with people in meaningful ways. As he continues to chase his dreams, one bucket list item stands out above the rest – a pilgrimage to Scotland. With his heart set on adventure and his pen poised for creativity, Andrew’s journey is far from over.

Alex VanHaasteren

Senior Web Developer

Alex is YMC’s Senior Web Developer and, as the title suggests, she is an absolute pro! While she initially started in graphic design – working long and hard to expertly bring concepts to life – she also felt drawn to technology and applying her natural ability to problem solve. Web Development proved the perfect blend of her creative passion and technical savvy.

When Alex is out with friends – including her YMC colleagues – she’s up for Greek cuisine or some good pulled pork BBQ washed down with Diet Coke. Or an Old Fashioned, if the occasion demands. Someday, she hopes to go to Africa on a safari. Hopefully she’ll see a giraffe in the wild, because – as she’s pointed out – its neck is too short to reach the ground!

When she isn’t jamming out to T-Swift, she’s happy to impart some marketing words of wisdom, “Aim to create something unforgettable.” For day-to-day inspiration, she would remind you of two fundamental truths: You decide your happiness, and Ice cream is its own food group—not just a dessert.

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