The Colonel said, “Whether it’s time or money, kiddo, don’t give to get. Give to offer a benefit. Be generous, expecting nothing in return. It will always come back to you.”
Last year, I was in the audience listening to a genuinely exceptional colleague. He is an accomplished speaker who was presenting the opening keynote at the same event where I was scheduled to present the closing keynote. He knocked it out of the park, and I knew the audience would be lining up to meet him and request a signed copy of his book. I saw that he had no assistant with him and therefore wouldn’t be able to be fully present for each fan who wanted his attention.
So, during the applause following his keynote, I hopped up to the table at the back of the room, where his stack of books was all ready for signing and purchase. When he made his way there, he was surprised to see me sitting there, as we hadn’t ever officially met. I introduced myself and asked for his credit card machine.
“I don’t have one,” he replied, somewhat confused.
“So, we’re taking cash and checks and writing down numbers? Ok. I’ll handle the money. You go ahead – sign, schmooze, and be brilliant.”
He sold out of all the books he brought and afterward said, “Lauren, can I take you with me everywhere?”
Now, I don’t share this story to boast about the fantastic help I offered him that day. I tell this story because it is an example of a small act of kindness that was much appreciated. It cost me nothing, but it may have allowed him to book more future business and make valuable connections in that golden moment after a speech. I know what it feels like to be stuck behind the table, taking credit card information, when the CEO of the dream client company waits over in the corner, and I can’t get to her! I helped alleviate that situation for him that day.
I may never see him again. Helping him out that day will probably never reap any rewards for my business, but it was the right thing to do at the moment. And it did feel pretty good to be helping out a colleague, which is ok too! All that you send into the lives of others comes back into your own. Make sure it’s positive and generous.
Read Lauren’s Whitepaper on The Nine Essentials of Significant Leadership.