Who are you, and what do you do?
My name is Sean Goodnight, and I am the Vice President of Acquisitions with Phoenix Capital Group. I’m a career-oriented individual who understands the value of hard work and being a good person. I like to read. Continuing to learn and grow is very important to me. I love sports, and I play hockey and run with my dog. Another big part of my world is my daughter.
What has been one insight or lesson that has been most helpful in your career?
When you’re working with people, you need to be honest and straightforward; it’s the best way to be.
Project forward ten years. How will your industry or field be fundamentally different then? What opportunities do you see?
As far as energy goes, the view on fossil fuels across the board will be very different in 10 years. There’s a lot of push for renewable energy, and I think we will see a very different industry in future generations, not to say that it’s going away. As far as minerals and mineral owners, I don’t think it will evolve in a big way in the next ten years. It’s not a boom-or-bust industry; it will be more about asset management and require financial intelligence to make the most of what you have.
What are some bad recommendations you hear in your profession or area of expertise?
I see competitors who don’t educate their clients enough. Other professionals in the field don’t dig in enough to help clients make the best-informed decision for them and their families. It’s essential to educate people as much as possible because this is a big decision and, in many cases, a very emotional decision. It’s hard to separate that. It’s crucial to connect on that level, help clients see the forest for the trees, and invest the time to educate them on something they previously were not open to.
What is the one book you recommend most often and why?
“How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie.
What advice would you give a smart and ambitious recent college graduate? What advice should they ignore?
Business is business, but there are always people involved. Listening and just being good to people in general, that’s the best way to go. Perseverance is also critical when coming out of college. Educate yourself, and do it all the way. Commit to the idea, and believe in what you’re doing. If you don’t, that’s hard to get behind and promote.
What is your favorite quote, one you aim to live by?
Warren Buffett: “Honesty is an expensive gift. Don’t expect it from cheap people.”