Steal This From Me: Look at Customer Bookshelves

The first thing I do when I walk into any place of business is to look for the bookshelves. It's not conscious. I just do it. The more I think about it, it's a good practice for anyone. If someone has an audience facing bookshelf, see it for what it is. It's nothing less than an *open invitation* for any takers to scan it. That person wants people to see what makes them tick. Not convinced? Try it. Someone displaying a shelf will typically appreciate being asked about it. After all, they took the time to read through those titles. The display is an endorsement.

Are you looking for a conversation starter? Are you wanting to set yourself apart as someone that takes a genuine interest in the people you serve? A bookshelf is a great place to lead from. Ask what their favorite titles are on that shelf and why. If there's no time to talk about it, jot down a few titles and go through a thought process of how aligning with those topics somehow might be valuable. Honestly, I do this outside of work and that's why I've never given much conscious thought to it.

Does this person lack a bookshelf? That also reveals something. Or it might not. That person may have modernized to e-reading. Either way, keep that you notice a lack of a bookshelf to yourself. The point isn't to judge. It's to join. Look for what they do have in that office that shows their interests. It's the same idea. Has that person published online? Check it out. Maybe read some of what they've written or read.

Here is a challenge for any willing takers. Do you have a shelf in your own office? Are all of the titles old? If this is something that matters to you, consider raising your game by refreshing the shelf. If it's not books on your shelf, maybe it's something else in your office space that can be brought current to the life you live right now: family photos, newer and changed interests, or that photo of a stunning horizon that someone else might enjoy seeing.

It's a form of truth to self. It's a statement of committing to living in the present, striving forward in the present, and showing you care to yourself and others. I just stepped through this, myself. And yes, I needed to. We all do at some point. It's okay to admit that. Be aware of your surroundings. It can and does make a difference. In a constant flow of people, places, and things, if we can note a few small things that others might miss, it can go a long way in making a strong positive impression.