Give Give Give Strategy

I’m in the idea business.

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The marketing world revolves around fresh ideas.  Success oftentimes follows the BIG idea or the breakthrough strategy delivering results for the client.  But that’s not all success follows.

I’m also in the business of: sales, sales training, education, mentorship, motivation, knowledge sharing, pastry delivery, ticket broker and anything relating to the next level of success or happiness for my clients.  If I’m truly committed to my clients’ successes, marketing can’t be the ONLY discipline worth sharing.

This is the give, give, give strategy.

Give more feedback, give a motivational video link, give more opportunities for growth, give more resources or knowledge so the client can benefit.   A word of warning to the greedy and self-centered.  This will not make you one penny directly today, but the indirect income I’ve earned over the years from this strategy is enormous.

There are three things every client on the face of the earth thinks before hiring you.  You must receive a resounding YES to all three to win.

  1. Do I like you?
  2. Do I trust you?
  3. Do I believe my money is best spent with you and your team?

One simple “No” response to any of these questions earns you the “We went another direction” email or phone call.  (THIS SUCKS)

Trust and relationships are forged over time and I believe that by giving all you have to offer, all your talents, all your knowledge and abilities, there stands the biggest room for success not only in the business, but in the relationship.  If you find yourself stuck in any client relationship I advise you to give more.  Then give more again.  It can’t go unnoticed or unappreciated.  History taught me great returns are earned from investing (Giving) a large amount upfront.

ACTION ITEM: Who can you give more to today?  If it’s not a client, make it a family member or friend in need.  Don’t give to expect something in return.  Do it because your passion demands it.

Compassion is NOT for the Weak

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One thing I absolutely, 100%, DO NOT want you to think is I’m only focused on immediate achievement and winning at any and all cost regardless of others thoughts and feelings.  This is not me and shouldn’t be you either.

I hope if you asked those close to me, one of the first things they would mention about me is compassion and genuine care for others.  This is not a mistake and takes a TON of effort.  It also means you can’t fake it.

I think this a foundational element of having and developing a Keen Mind.  Achieving and winning are good things.  Helping others achieve is a GREAT thing.  If you’re only operating for yourself, your own goals, and in your own mind I will promise you will not truly achieve what you could’ve if you took a moment to look around and help others achieve in the process.

Please don’t underestimate compassion for weakness.  Just because someone is kind, or has a big heart does not mean they’re weak.  It doesn’t have a single thing to do with their decision making or ability to lead others.  It means they’re a human being ready for a challenge and there’s never been a better time to be a great person than now.  Why do I say this?

Ten years ago you could only tell those near you about the wonderful people you met in the hopes that some day long down the road you’d serendipitously cross paths in an airport lounge.  Today you can connect with them nearly immediately via social networks.  Powerful tribes are being built right now because of the tools we have at our fingertips.  What a wonderful time we live in!

Compassion will get you further in your career or endeavor than almost any other attribute you’re working on today.  The reason is founded in the most basic of human principles.  People love to help and associate with those who show their true colors and they trust them.  Love is a powerful word.  Notice I didn’t say “like” to associate. Great things will be accomplished by focusing your Keen Mind on compassion and doing well for others just as you’re doing well for yourself.

ACTION ITEM: Instead of working on just you today find someone else to help.  Call, email, text, FaceTime, do something to help the lives of those you count on each and every day.  Your reward will be astonishing!