Give Yourself Away: How Giving is your Secret Weapon in Persuasion.
“They who give have all things.
They who withhold have nothing”.
- Hindu Proverb
You may see it, or not, but generosity helps run the world. It’s why Whole Foods offers free samples, or why Netflix gives you a free trial before they ask for your money. And funny enough, it’s why wealthy business people donate to political campaigns - although that’s not true generosity.
The sociologist Christian Smith defines generosity as “the virtue of giving good things to others freely and abundantly. It’s the opposite of selfishness and greed - even though this may end up benefiting you in the long run. Being generous doesn’t mean you are not rewarded for your action. In fact, it’s often the very act of giving that causes you to attract more over time.
The more you look at your interactions with others as opportunities to give, the more you will recognize what you have to contribute. To help identify it, giving breaks down into four main categories:
- Time and attention
- Advice and recommendations
- Compliments and recognition
- Stuff
Here’s one that hopefully is obvious: stuff is not the most valuable thing you can give someone. Especially not money. Often, a well placed compliment, smile, reminder, or conversation can be priceless to someone who needs it the most. Giving makes us human. It’s why it feels good to help a stranger on the street with directions despite the fact that you will most likely never see them again.
All of the above is simply to demonstrate how generosity fits perfectly into the Soulful Art of Persuasion. My approach to persuasion is about developing character traits that compel people to take your side, not because of some tactical maneuver you’ve successfully executed but because of who you actually are.
Being generous will create stronger relationships and bonds with those in your life. If you become the kind of person who exhibits a generous character, persuasiveness will be a natural byproduct.
If you become the kind of person who exhibits a generous character, persuasiveness will be a natural byproduct.
Remember to give yourself away.
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This article contains topics and excerpts from the fourth chapter of my bestselling book, The Soulful Art of Persuasion, available most places books are sold including Amazon and Audible. For more info, visit www.thesoulfulart.com
Questions? Tweet me @Jason_Harris
Global Business & Growth Leader I Sales Excellence & Transformation I Enterprise Account Portfolio Leader ? Leader of the Year | CEO Awardee : Sales & Execution | BU Leader | Large Deals | Published Author
4 年Nice read Jason. This way of life is pure gold for those who truly understand, embrace and live it. The experience is a different kind of fulfillment. Beyond mere persuasion, you will build lasting relationships, networks and ability to collaborate far beyond your current limits. Genuine interest in others lives with get reciprocated in genuine interest of yours.