Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Building others–and you

It really doesn’t matter how old you are, how famous, or what your position, personal attention makes a difference.

If you want to get close to children, get on the floor with them. You will be amazed at how much more involved with you they become. If you are a teacher, paying attention to individual students makes a big difference in their success. As the top dog in your department, your store, or your organization, you can make significant inroads and great impact when you deal human to human.

A couple of examples on the positive side. I contacted the manager of the local WinCo food store. This is a large store with many employees. I had a question. I called the manager. Instead of someone down the line, he answered the phone. He dealt with my question openly and honestly even though part of the answer was not to my liking. He was fair, straight, and personal. When I went into the store to talk with him, he was very willing and friendly. Will I shop at that store again? Absolutely.

A superintendent of the Boise public schools was riding in an elevator. He was recognized by a district teacher. She introduced herself and told him about a program she was running in her classroom. He said he would like to see it and that he would drop by sometime. Not too long after that meeting, she was surprised to find him in her classroom, remembering her name, and sincerely interested in what she was doing. As she related the story to me, she glowed. He made a positive lasting impression: he really was interested in her, the classroom and what was going on with kids.

A couple of negative examples. I knew a local politician who routinely called and asked for my input.  He was elected governor. From then on, he did not even know me. Another politician – a representative to the congress – continually asked for input. However, when my input did not agree with his philosophy, I received no communication back. To these individuals, I became invisible, unimportant, and of little consequence. Would I vote for them? Absolutely not.

One of the best things you can do for your business or associations, even family, is to pay sincere attention to individuals. Not only will it be good for your business, situation, and them, it will benefit you. You will become a better listener and a better learner.

As always, when you are building others, you are building you.

[You can still get your free download of the new book: "The Wrong Bottom Line. . . Still: Critical Components."  Offer ends Monday, April 16. Email to rummler@appliedfocus.com]

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