I think it might come as a surprise to the people who know me now, that when I started in this business (social media/marketing etc etc etc) I was very protective of my opinions and ideas. I hardly ever freely SHARED with others and I was not overly eager to offer help or ideas either. In those days when I was asked an opinion or request for advice by a friend (or foe), I would frequently hear ‘the tape’ of caution in my head; “They just want to pick your brain and steal your ideas. Don’t do it’. I can even remember hesitating to tweet things I thought were particularly funny for fear of the joke being re-written and used by some other fabulous comedian. (Yeah I know. Clearly I think A LOT of myself.)
So what was I so worried about anyway? Well, for starters;
I once believed my creative thoughts were pulling from a warehouse and not a well.
What’s the difference? Well, once believed I was limited to fixed inventory of insights, ideas and creative thoughts. And some day the warehouse, my warehouse, would be empty. So I guarded those ideas, and protected them like anyone would a who had a finite limited inventory. Yet, as time has marched on I have discovered my ideas come from more of a ‘well’, that seems to replenish itself when I am not looking. And like any good well, there is always enough to share.
It happened gradually, but eventually I realized all this protecting of content and ideas and advice was simply exhausting. So I decided to give it all up. To anyone. It started as a passive (read: lazy) experiment just to see if helping everyone, giving away content, ideas, concepts, strategy, and advice would end up being better for me. And I think you know the answer to this, but let’s state the obvious….it has be great. Times ten.
Helping is now my new hobby. If you need thoughts on a business plan, just ask. Trying to structure a new e-book on social media? Feel free to pick my brain. Need a some one to edit that new post? I am your gal. Trying to negotiate salary for a new position? Let’s chat strategy. And for the record- these examples come from real life in just the past week.
So Marcy*- if you are just ‘giving it away’ left and right what do you get from sharing your thoughts, opinions and advice freely with even those that might be your ‘competition?’
SELF ESTEEM: First of all, I consider it an honor- anytime, ANY person asks for advice from me. And you should too. The fact that someone considers your opinion valuable is a privilege, and well that just feels good. Let’s face it- it is flattering.
REFERRALS: I get huge credibility which organically translates into business referrals. When people are in a position to recommend someone, they are more likely to suggest the one who ACTUALLY helped them achieve their goals over someone they have had no personal experience with…. For obvious reasons- they like you because you helped them, and it makes them feel good to return the favor.
INSIGHT: I gain incredible insight into the people I help. Many conversations are raw and unguarded. I am able to peek into lives with the the public persona removed. It is not easy for most people to ask for help…so I always tread lightly, albeit HONESTLY, and do my best to make it worth their risk of exposing their need to me.
So tell me, do you share from your well?
Looking forward~
*Here is where I refer to myself in the third person. Cuz I like to pretend I am being interviewed. Cuz it is fun. And in other news I am a dork.
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