My post this week honors Maya Angelou’s lifetime of service. The outpouring of grief and admiration on her recent passing is a measure of the impact she had on others. I find one of her quotes especially relevant: “I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.” This is the heart of networking. When we truly care about the success of others and offer unfettered help, good things often happen to us. Is it something mystical such as karma or are we just more receptive?
There is a temptation to keep track of what we get in return but Adam Grant has demonstrated the power in giving without a ledger handy. I’m not suggesting that you let people take advantage of you but it can’t be about receiving one favor for every favor you give. You should always seek opportunities to pay it forward or pay it back, dependent on your resources. If you can do that authentically, you’ll build a cloud of advocates who will always keep you top of mind. In effect they become a virtual sales team for your brand.
Almost everyone has heard the phrase, “It’s better to give than receive”, which is taken nearly directly from the bible, Acts 20:35. As Maya observed, it also makes you feel good about yourself! Even the Grinch realized this truth….
{ 0 comments… add one now }