For the most part, people want others to succeed and I saw that generosity of spirit the other night at my daughter’s school concert. The boombox playing the music 
cut out while the teachers were doing their grand finale. The audience just kept clapping the beat and the teachers kept dancing. The synergy was palpable!
“No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted.” Aesop
The line from Streetcar Named Desire about always depending on the kindness of strangers has been echoing in my head since that night. Since I started on Twitter, I have been struck by one overwhelming theme. People want to connect and help you! We imagine that somehow chatting on the computer would be more isolating and less genuine. (To be truthful, there are people who are unpleasant and selfish on-line too.) And yet, there are so many instances of people sharing compassion and expertise on Twitter, Facebook, and other social networking sites.
We depend on the kindness of strangers when we are conducting business. This really is where networking becomes a key part of how we do business. There are many times when the music of our business cuts out on us. We need help with our blogs, our administrative tasks, our financials, and other aspects of growing our businesses. Other people know who is best to help us resolve our problems. When we ask for some ideas, we usually get help. (I know the list of people I have to thank from both in-person and social networking is incredibly long! ) We have heard the BNI mantra about “Givers gain.” It is truly remarkable how many people, at all levels of business, simply give because they can. They give their time, knowledge, and resources because you asked.
“What goes around, comes around.” Modern American proverb Maybe some people are looking to create good karma. Others may not know the value of what they give. I have had well-established business people tell me that “it’s just good business” and also they are creating a legacy. No matter what motivates the giver, the act of kindness and generosity is remarkable!
What do you share?
How much do you give away without expectation of a return favor?
How do you tell the difference between genuine sharing and a sales pitch?
