Ray Hefner, Executive Director
The Voice Newsletter June 2024

I recently read “Getting Naked: A Business Fable" by Patrick Lencioni (Five Dysfunctions of a Team), and the good read was courtesy of the DPR Lending Library (Thank you Marc Ness!). Getting Naked explores the principles of vulnerability and transparency in client relationships. The book tells the story of Jack Bauer, an executive at a high-profile consulting firm, who learns valuable lessons about client service from a small, unconventional consultancy called Lighthouse Partners. The fable illustrates how embracing vulnerability and being genuinely transparent can transform people/client interactions and lead to greater success.

Without giving the entire book away (it is a must-read), the main character Jack Bauer, and his firm are acquiring a rival consulting firm, Lighthouse Partners. This small firm has been very effective in the consulting industry and has at times taken business away from Jack Bauer’s firm. To understand the new firm, Jack Bauer spends time at Lighthouse Partners and learns what they call “naked service,” which involves three key principles: being vulnerable, being honest, and being willing to sacrifice personal comfort for the client.

Getting Naked offers some key takeaways for everyone who is in business most importantly, “Don’t judge a book by its cover!” Simply put, just because your company does things a certain way doesn’t mean other ways are not effective and new lessons CAN BE learned.

Want to learn more about the importance of vulnerability and transparency in business? Pick up a copy of "Getting Naked!" By shedding the facade of perfection and embracing a more vulnerable, human, and honest approach, businesses can build stronger connections, differentiate themselves in the marketplace, and achieve greater success. The fable’s message is a reminder that authenticity and genuine care for people/clients are not just ethical choices but also strategic advantages!