Barnett Gillette: ‘Tis the Season to be a Giver

‘Tis the season of giving. It’s November. As Americans we celebrate Thanksgiving at the end of the month, and as Facebook users, we reluctantly continue to follow our friends that post what they are thankful for every day for 30 days. For even just one day, we’re challenged to be mindful of what we have, what we cherish and how we too can give back. In his book Give and Take, Adam Grant says, “…success depends heavily on how we approach our interactions with other people.” And because business is built on relationships, it’s a constant balance of how much we share our value, and how much we ask for in return. If no other time all year long, I challenge you to be a giver this season. Here’s how you can do it easily and pain-free. Share what you know. Ever come across a piece of invaluable information that you just have to tell someone else? It may even be a seemingly obvious factoid that you preface with “did you know this,” genuinely unsure if you’ve struck gold?  To be clear, this isn’t a way to tell everyone how smart you are or even be the smartest guy in the room. It’s really the easiest way to be relatable, to be relevant and to be a giver. Whether you’ve known “it” for a while or just watched an episode of “The Daily Show,” don’t hold “it” in. More than likely, you’re changing perceptions, offering new perspective and just making those around you smarter. Share what you know to give what you have. Listen. This is an acquired skill for some. I live by the philosophy that we have two ears and one mouth, so we should use them in that ratio. While I can’t take credit for that saying, I can tell you it works. When you decide to actively hear what those around you are saying, and follow-up with thoughtful questions and insight, the dynamic in your relationships will change. Giving isn’t always about you. Sometimes, to be a giver, you have to simply show up and do your best to understand. It’s then, that those around you will finally “get” you and all you have to give. Make introductions. Whether you’re asked for an introduction or not, there’s simply no better way to thrive in business than by building relationships. LinkedIn is arguably the most successful social platform in business today. It’s built on the basis of “connect[ing] the world's professionals to make them more productive and successful,” as noted in their mission statement. With over 225 million members worldwide, it appears they’re on to something. Of course, it may get tricky for some of you – it requires matchmaking of sorts. So even if it’s only electronically, make an effort for the people you know. So, if Grant is right and our success in business does rely on how we treat the interactions we have with those around us, then use this season to evaluate your approach. You may even decide to use it as your excuse to just give in.

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Alexis Barnett Gillette, named one of 1851's "2013 Young Ones to Watch", is a relationship-driven franchise and marketing leader. Most recently, Director of Marketing for MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes*, a leader in the “better burger” fast-casual segment, Gillette’s strategic vision for system programs, implementation of processes and procedures, along with innovation in technology and digital media resulted in nearly 100% unit growth for 2012. Contact Gillette via Email at [email protected]