Do You Need to Change the Station?

Question: Are people tuning you in, or tuning you out?

When it comes to the pursuit of success, it appears far too many people are operating on the same frequency -- and as a result, it doesn't take long for others to tune out. I'm talking about that same old, over-exposed station, WIIFM -- What's In It For Me? If you listen closely, there's only one song, and it plays over, and over, and over again. It's an annoying little tune called Gimme, Gimme, Gimmie. In fact if you've been to a recent networking event or other business gathering, you've probably heard several versions -- from several different "artists". Are you one of those artists? Maybe it's time to turn the dial and sing a different song.

Adding new customers is critical to the growth of a small business, and it's something we all need to concentrate on. However, there is a time and there is a way to do it. The first time we meet a person is rarely the time and overwhelming that person with our qualifying questions or worse yet, our product puke-out, is definitely not the way.

Now, I don't want to be crass or sound overly glib about this, but I think we need to take a serious look at ourselves and how we relate to others in the marketplace. Generally, we'll earn a reputation for being either a giver or a taker -- or we're going to be known for some serious leanings, one way or another. The problem is, we have no real trouble spotting that taker mentality in others. Seeing it in ourselves? Now that's a different story. If we did, we wouldn't do it -- period.

I love the work of Bob Burg and John David Mann in their signature offering, The Go-Giver. Have you read it? Have you made giving first a business strategy and not just an abstract discussion? If not, you might be stuck on that same old station and you might be humming that same old tune. Make a move. Change the station. Listen to others and find a way to give and to serve before seeking to get something for yourself.

Once you learn the rhythm and the lyrics, you'll be singing a much happier song -- and the number of requests you receive will let you know you have a hit. Tune it in and turn it up!

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.