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We saw “Rent” at the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines a few weeks ago. It’s a heart-changing rock musical and well worth the ticket price. The acting, singing, dancing and choreography were something to behold.

As I sat in the theater, awed by the voices and acrobatic dancing, I happened to glance over and spied a teenage girl a few rows down. It was during one of the more robust numbers in the show, and she was literally dancing in her seat. Her face was one of pure joy. At that moment, she was on that stage, dancing to the roaring crowd.

My first thought was: “I wish the cast could see her. They’d be reminded why they chose this profession. Because they inspire joy.”

My second thought was for you. (And me.) Do we inspire joy in our work? Does our product or service make our customers want to dance?

It’s easy to dismiss that question with a “We don’t sing or dance; we build Web sites.” Or “We sell checking accounts.”

But that’s a cop-out.

Every one of us has the capacity to create a joyful experience. Haven’t you ever hung up the phone with a big smile on your face because someone exceeded your expectations? Haven’t you ever finished a meeting with a business partner and felt so good about the work you’re doing together that you wanted to dance a little jig? How about that little song of relief that wants to burst out when you realize that someone really and truly “gets” you and your work?

If not … maybe it’s time to rethink your choice.

What could you do that would inspire joy in your clients or co-workers this week?

Drew McLellan is Top Dog at McLellan Marketing Group and blogs at www.drewsmarketingminute.com. He can be reached at Drew@MclellanMarketing.com. © 2009 Drew McLellan