To get a promotion, create value first.
“Your true worth is determined by
how much more you give in value
than you take in payment.”
— “The Go Giver” by Bob Berg and John David Mann
How can you reach the next level of success? Think, dress and act like you’re already there, and give more of your time, expertise and service than others expect. The result? The universe will reciprocate. The last part may be the most important, if you have already demonstrated incredible value for the job you want, it’s a natural to select you for the promotion you are after. Here’s a very clear example …
Many years ago, I coached a college senior (we’ll call him Steve) whose only job experience was being a waiter in college. We decided the best strategy for his job search was to find a company he really wanted to work for, contact the company and offer to volunteer his time to do any job. By the way, now over 20 years later, everyone who has used this strategy to find a job, ended up in a job they really wanted!
Steve had a connection with the president of Volant Ski, Hank Kashiwa. Steve said, “I’ve met Hank Kashiwa; he’s a great guy and has revolutionized skies. I’d love to work at Volant.” So Steve set up an interview with Mr. Kashiwa.
During his interview, he mustered his courage and said, “I have great respect for who you are, what you’ve accomplished and how you’re revolutionizing the ski industry making metal skis. I so want to be a part of your company that I’ll volunteer full time and do any job you ask.”
Mr. Kashiwa immediately took Steve up on his offer. Steve loved working at Volant and did everything and more that was asked of him. Within a month, he was offered a full-time job.
Steve created value, just as the great leaders and elite sales professionals I know do. Every business and personal relationship you’re in can benefit from you giving more, but you must also be open to receiving — which is the topic of the next post.
Have the courage to give more,
the universe will return your kindness
in its own way and time.
