Be a Go-Giver

One of the most influential writers currently in my life is an author, speaker, & trainer named Bob Burg. If you’ve read my book, Income Double – Half the Trouble, you might notice that he’s one of the only a handful of living people that I quote. He’s written several books, including The Go-Giver and Go-Givers Sell More, as well as updating a very inspiring blog at http://www.burg.com/blog/ .

I decided to use Bob’s books and his teachings for my M5 teleseminar yesterday morning, as an example of how entrepreneurs and professionals can reconnect with possible contacts or clients by giving to give, rather than giving with the expectation of receiving. Sometimes we can get so caught up in the bottom line that we forget that giving is just as important as receiving, as Bob has pointed out.

By the way, I was so caught up in delivering the content that I forgot to mention that yesterday’s “go-giver” theme was in celebration of my beautiful wife’s birthday. I wanted to pay tribute to her generous spirit, because she really is a ‘go-giver.’

In business, I’m often asked: “What can I give to someone who has it all?” To that, I offer these options:

1.) a good joke – found plentifully in your inbox, but if you pick just one relevant, thoughtful one for a person you know, that could make their day.
2.) a greeting card – a dying art, but always appreciated if sincere
3.) an interesting article – opened with a summary in your own words so people can save time and get to know your point of view
4.) an invitation to an event – you don’t necessarily have to be going, but make sure it fits the person you’re inviting
5.) a beautiful/appropriate photograph or link to some awe inspiring images. See NASA.com
6.) putting people together – a great referral or a great resource is priceless these days.
7.) a fruit basket – or a box of chocolates or some other undeniably delicious gift.
8.) a thoughtful sentiment – just a simple call or e-mail with a timely and heartfelt acknowledgement can be priceless, just make sure there is already some decent rapport.
9.) a simple, sincere “How are you doing?” and/or “What can I do to help you?”

Now, I’m not saying that these choices are the “be all – end all.” If you have some hidden gem of a website, or know of a bakery that makes one hell of a flourless brownie, or you read a fascinating article in the Times that you think would be appropriate, share it!And if you’ve read the list and are a bit overwhelmed/unsure of your next move, give me a call. Together we can brainstorm the perfect giving for you to give to your contacts.

And…since I didn’t get to say it this morning: Happy Birthday, Ellen!