How to give and receive them, all year long.
One of my favorite quotes by leadership and motivational speaker Jim Rohn is, “Give whatever you are doing and whoever you are with the gift of your attention.” In addition to being a fail-proof formula for personal interactions, Rohn’s quote is also an insightful guide to business gift-giving. These are my top three gifts of attention from clients and business associates in 2015.
The Public Shout-Out // During a recent professional association meeting, the chapter president asked if there were any announcements from members. A financial services CEO stood up and held out his smartphone. He had downloaded one of my Web articles, adding, “In case you haven’t seen it yet, you should take a look at what Elizabeth has written in her latest post. It’s good information for all business professionals. Here’s the website address.”
That announcement came as a complete surprise to me. I didn’t even know he read my posts. As a respected member of the chapter, he gave me a priceless gift of credibility and competence, which led to opportunities with other chapter members. It was a powerful reminder of how one thoughtful, public comment can create a positive ripple effect. Who among your customers or colleagues deserves a similar gift?
The Intentional Introduction // I ran into a client at a year-end networking event. He was talking with a business associate and invited me to join their conversation. During our small talk, my client’s associate spotted a high-profile company executive that he knew. My client asked if I had ever met the executive. I hadn’t. My client turned to his associate and said, “Tom and Elizabeth would probably enjoy meeting each other. Why don’t you introduce them?” My client’s intentional and inclusive gesture simplified the introduction for everyone. Whom could you introduce, based on a similar premise of mutual interest?
The Endorsement // A client invited me to a holiday lunch that she hosts every year for her customers, service providers and suppliers. Mary introduced me to one of her distributors and suggested that we sit together. Near the end of the lunch, Mary thanked us for coming. “You and I were talking about our year-end numbers a few weeks ago,” she explained to her distributor, “and I wanted you to meet Elizabeth today. She’s a big part of why we did so well this year.” What could you be doing to give or earn an endorsement like Mary’s?
I still enjoy giving and getting a box of fine chocolates as much as anyone. But a gift of attention will continue to have an impact long after a box of holiday treats is empty. This year and next, why not thank your customers and business associates with the gift of your attention?
