Leadership Q&As are a series in which selected members of the Think+ community take a few moments to reflect on their experiences, offer advice to their fellow Energy Advisors, and look toward the future of Think+.
These insights from Senior Director John Pyonteck were provided during a conversation in May 2024.
What initially drew you to Think+?
JP: The Kenny brothers and a phone call with Michael Fallquist.
How has being an Energy Advisor impacted your life?
JP: It has given me a vehicle to help others and a renewed purpose.
How has your definition of success evolved since you started with Think+?
JP: It has strengthened my belief that building leaders is how you become successful in building your own business.
What are some of the biggest motivators that keep you pushing forward?
JP: My motivation is derived from every morning, when I wake up to chart the course of my day, connecting with my team, and feeling great about watching people push forward.
What are some non-monetary rewards that drive you?
JP: The recognition of others that are improving in their business and in their lives.
What personal goals do you set for yourself, and how do they contribute to your overall sense of achievement?
JP: I push myself to hit one rank at a time, have a quick celebration, and then get back focused on the next rank.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to someone considering becoming an Energy Advisor?
JP: The opportunity represents hope. My recommendation to anyone starting in the business is to treat this opportunity like you just started a million-dollar company: Plug into the system, take massive action, and define your why every morning you wake up.
How do you empower and support your downline to succeed as Energy Advisors?
JP: I believe that leading by example is the best way to empower your team. Master the art of getting customers and teach your team how to do the same. Communication is the key to building a bond with your teammates.
What kind of community do you foster within your downline?
JP: We all have the ability to create a family-type setting within our businesses. I truly believe that, when people on your team believe in you, they start building belief in themselves.
Share a fun fact or a unique story about your experience as an Energy Advisor.
JP: I am relentless about going for the no! I called Kirk Horan ten times and, the last time, I said, "I need 20 minutes of your undivided attention. I want you to watch a video, call me back, and tell me ‘no!’” He replied, “Why would you want me to tell you no?" and I said, "Because if you watch it, you won’t tell me no." And he didn’t.
What excites you most about the future of sustainable energy?
JP: Community solar is a game-changer! A guaranteed product with savings for 20 years to everyone we approach. It’s new, it’s long-term, and it’s going to change people’s lives.
What are your biggest goals for your business moving forward?
JP: Hitting the top rank and having many people follow me.
What is the thing that surprised you the most about Think+ now after one year?
JP: The team of professionals that Michael Fallquist has put together at the corporate level. They care as much as the field, and that’s a winning combination that very few companies have.
